Pomeranian dog breed characteristics, origin and care

Pomeranian breed characteristics

• Size: Toy
• Traits: Feisty. Confident. Curious.
• Maintenance: High maintenance! Regular brushing, bathing and clipping required. Can be expensive and time Consuming.
• Best suited to: Older owners that can provide assured leadership. Families with older children that are mature enough to play gently with their pup.

  Small size, big personality!

  Boisterous. Fun. Fierce. Pomeranians are foxy little fluff balls with extremely large personalities that don't really match their diminutive size. At home in a ladies handbag or amongst the well-to-do set, Pomeranians also make excellent pets for apartments and inner-city dwellers.

If you are seeking a small dog that is big on personality with oodles of charm, a Pomeranian may be the perfect pup for you.

Where I’m from

Pomeranians are toy versions of the working Spitz breed of dog. Originating from Pomerania, which today forms part of Poland and Germany, the fox-faced miniature breed became popular in European high-class society and aristocracy. The breed made its way to the United Kingdom in the 1700s. A Pomeranian became a favourite of Queen Victoria i the 1800s. She bred smaller and smaller dogs, whose tiny size were admired throughout the country.

The breed was officially recognised in 1891 in the United Kingdom.

What I look like

Pomeranians are tiny, double-coated canines with pointy faces and upstanding ears. Their luxurious long fur makes them appear slightly larger than their diminutive frames. Pomeranians come in a range of shades including white, cream, orange, red, brown, black, black-and-tan, brindle, sable and blue (dark grey). With a curled tail and fluffy ruff, they have a slightly uppity and arrogant form.

How I act

Did we mention energy? Pomeranians have heaps! They are intelligent and very protective of their adoptive families. They make alert guard dogs and fun-filled companion dogs suitable for small apartments. Whilst small, Pomeranians are not lap dogs and will not sit on their master's knees for long stretches of time. It is advisable not to hold the dog too often as this could lead to antisocial behavior such as your dog believing it is 'pack leader' and becoming overly protective of their master.

Pomeranians need an authoritative leader to confidently guide them. Early training and socialisation are vital to counter any control issues and put a stop to persistent barking. Aggression towards bigger dogs needs to be dealt with firmly or could lead to your Pomeranian getting hurt.

On the fun side, Pomeranians are excellent at learning tricks and will love bonding with their master when learning and practising these activities.

Though energetic, they do not need too much exercise to remain healthy and happy. A 20-30 minute walk per day plus inside play will tire them out and reduce destructive behaviour.

Looking after me

Pomeranians hardy but may suffer from loose kneecaps, heart complaints, skin disorders and eye problems. Small dogs can often be in denial of their size and may injure themselves jumping from high surfaces.

Check the temperament and medical history of a puppy's parents and view veterinarian clearance certificates to ensure you get a healthy dog. As with any dog, be wary of uncertified 'backyard' breeders. Pomeranians have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

They require small meals of high-quality dog food twice a day according to packaging recommendations. Dog treats are useful for training.

Their luxurious double coat needs regular brushing and combing, at least a couple times a week. Additionally, regular trimming and clipping is required to keep your Pom looking their best. Their thick coat can lead to overheating. Take care on hot days by supplying plenty of water and cool places to rest.

Am I the pet for you?

Pomeranians are best for families with older children that have learned to play carefully with small animals. Pomeranians are also good for older owners, singles and those living in small apartments.

Pros

• Pomeranians can be good apartment dogs and suitable pets for active senior citizens.
• Pomeranians are good at learning tricks and love bonding with their master.
• Pomeranians are adorable especially when only teeny, tiny puppies.

Cons

• Pomeranians are vocal barkers - great for intruder alerts, but not helpful when they bark about every small noise in the house. Good training is a must to prevent neighbour complaints.
• Pomeranians are not good for families with young children as the dogs can become irritable and snappy. Due to Pomeranians tiny size, rough-playing children can easily cause injury.
• Pomeranians believe they are bigger than they are, which can lead to them becoming overly aggressive and defensive towards dogs three to four times their size. Training from an early age is a must.