Comprehensive Guide to Pomeranian Breed: Traits, Pros & Cons with Pictures

Pomeranians are fuzzy and adorable pint-sized pups that have captured hearts around the world. These cute, loving dogs ranked 24th on the AKC’s 2021 list of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. A Pomeranian might just be the perfect four-legged companion for your family. Aside from being adorable, “Poms” are also loyal, loving, and cuddly dogs that love to play. But don’t let the adorable faces fool you; they can be a handful and not the ideal fit for your home.
The Pomeranian is a true toy breed, with a typical height of eight to 11 inches and weight of just three to seven pounds (one to three kilograms). They are often at full size by seven to 10 months of age. Pomeranians are easily recognized by their luxurious, fluffy double coat and foxy face with alert, pointed ears. The body shape is fairly square, and the fluffy tail curls up and over the back. A thick ruff around the neck completes the look of a dog that could handle the snows of northern Germany. The head is somewhat rounded with a distinct muzzle.

History and Origin of Pomeranians

Pomeranians originated in the province of Pomerania, which is a region of northern Europe on the Baltic Sea coast. They can trace their roots back to large sled dogs and are closely related to breeds such as the American Eskimo Dog, Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Norwegian Elkhound, and Samoyed. The first Pomeranians weighed between 20 and 30 pounds. Queen Victoria of England is responsible for the breed’s small size today. She brought one home from a trip to Florence, Italy and began breeding them to become a little lapdog. Queen Victoria isn’t the only famous person to fall for this breed. Sir Isaac Newton, Martin Luther, Michelangelo, and Mozart all had Pomeranians.

Notable Historical Figures and Pomeranians

• Queen Victoria bred Pomeranians that were significantly smaller than the breed’s original size of 30 pounds (14 kg); they became widely popular and led to today’s breed standard.
• Michelangelo is said to have had a Pomeranian with him while he painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
• Martin Luther, a leader of the Protestant Reformation, had a Pomeranian named Belferlein who he often mentioned in his writings.

Physical Characteristics of Pomeranians

Pomeranians are tiny, double-coated dogs with pointy faces and erect ears. Their luxurious long fur makes them appear slightly larger than their small 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 proud and self-assured bearing.

Coat and Colors

The Pomeranian is a double-coated breed. They have a short, dense undercoat with a long, harsh-textured outer coat. Coat color: All colors, patterns, and variations are allowed. They can be chocolate, tan, sable, blue, orange, black, white, cream, red, silver, grey, fawn, or brown. The thick double coat varies in color but is typically orange, with black or brown markings, solid white, or black and tan. While the white Pomeranian is the most recognized, the black Pomeranian is considered rare. Other rare color types include lilac, blue, and wolf sable.

Size and Weight

Pomeranians are classified as a toy breed, typically weighing between 1.36 and 3.17 kilograms (3 to 7 pounds) and standing about 20 to 28 centimeters (8 to 11 inches) tall at the shoulder. Despite their small stature, they have a sturdy and compact frame.

Temperament and Personality Traits

The Pomeranian’s temperament is often described as fearless, lively, bold, and feisty. These fluffy little dogs are naturally curious and eager to explore and interact with their environment. Their alert expression, bright eyes, and perky ears give them an endearing and inquisitive appearance. Although described as spunky, they are very loyal to their owners and are quite affectionate. As with other breeds, early socialization and training is important.
Pomeranians are intelligent, loving, playful, cheerful dogs and are devoted to their families. These small-bodied and playful dogs possess all qualities that make them great dogs to own. Although they are the size of your average lap dog, Poms have big personalities. They are often described as lively, bold, and inquisitive, always eager to explore their surroundings and engage with their human companions. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, as they won’t hesitate to announce the arrival of visitors or any unusual activity.

Key Personality Traits

• Confident and Feisty: Pomeranians often believe they’re much larger than they are, displaying a fearless attitude that can be both amusing and endearing.
• Affectionate: Pomeranians absolutely adore their owners, making them a great choice for anyone who wants a loving companion. They show their affection by licking and jumping on their owners.
• Intelligent: Pomeranians are very smart dogs that thrive on structure and clear boundaries. They are highly responsive to training and discipline.
• Vocal: Pomeranians bark fairly regularly, similar to other toy breeds, but the frequency may vary depending on the individual dog and circumstances.

Pros of Owning a Pomeranian

A Pomeranian can be a great addition to any household. Here are a few reasons why adopting a Pomeranian is a good idea:

• Cuteness Overload: Pomeranians are bundles of cuteness in tiny packages. The first thing that draws people to these dogs is their appealing looks. Poms have adorable, smiling, fox-like faces. Their pricked ears, dark, almond-shaped eyes, thick coats, and heavily plumed tails are very cute.
• Loyal and Loving: Pomeranians are loving and cuddly dogs. They crave your attention and affection but give unconditional love to their owners. They’ll also wag their tails furiously in happiness the moment they see their owners.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Pomeranians are a bit smarter than many other small dogs. Many people see this as a benefit, though it also means they’re more likely to get bored. Their intelligence makes them easier to train than many other dogs, and their people-oriented nature means they’ll often listen to commands, too.
• Adaptable to Small Spaces: One of the most notable advantages of having a Pomeranian is their ability to adapt well to small homes. This makes them perfect for city dwellers or those with limited space. They don’t need much space to run around, so a small yard or even just a daily walk is usually enough.
• Low Food Costs: Dog food expenses can easily dent your budget if you own a ravenous dog breed. Thankfully, Pomeranians have modest appetites and require a little food to keep them full. Usually, a cup and a half of dog food per pound every day is usually enough.
• Long Lifespan: The average Pomeranian lifespan is 12–16 years, making them one of the longest-living dog breeds. It is not unheard of for some to live up to 18 or even 20 years!

Cons of Owning a Pomeranian

Pomeranians may not be the best fit for every family. Here are a couple of reasons why a Pomeranian is not the right breed for you:

• Fragility: Pomeranians are fragile and require constant supervision to avoid accidental injury or death. They’re also not a good fit for households with toddlers, as young children may unintentionally harm them.
• Excessive Barking: If you value peace and quiet, a Pomeranian might not be the dog for you. Pomeranians are vocal dogs with high barking potential. They may bark whenever someone approaches.
• High Maintenance Grooming: The Pomeranian’s luxurious coat requires regular grooming. Frequent baths and brush-outs are needed to keep a Pom’s coat in good condition. Pomeranians are moderate shedders, so regular vacuuming will become part of life.
• Stubbornness: Even though they are eager to please, Poms are stubborn and independent. This makes them not a great breed for first-time owners.
• Not Ideal for Cuddling: If you’re looking for a cuddle buddy, consider a Whippet or Cocker Spaniel instead of a Pomeranian. Poms don’t cuddle for long and typically have an independent streak.
• Napoleon Complex: Pomeranians have a Napoleon complex, especially around other dogs. Despite their small size, these pups like to see themselves as the alpha dog. They may not get along with dogs that don’t treat them that way.

Care Requirements for Pomeranians

Grooming Needs

Maintaining a Pomeranian’s luxurious coat requires regular grooming. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangling, especially around the neck and behind the ears. A slicker brush and a metal comb are essential tools for this task. Bathing your Pomeranian every three to four weeks helps keep their coat clean and reduces odors. Always use a dog-specific shampoo to maintain skin health. Regularly checking and cleaning their ears, trimming their nails, and brushing their teeth are also crucial components of their grooming routine.

• Brush their thick double coat a few times each week to avoid tangles and keep shedding under control.
• Bathe every 1-3 months, using dog-specific shampoo.
• Regularly clean ears to prevent infections, and brush teeth to avoid dental issues.

Exercise Needs

Though Pomeranians are small dogs, they can make for active companions. Poms need a moderate amount of exercise, about 30 to 60 minutes daily. This can entail running around the house, walking, playing fetch in the yard, and more. A 20-30 minute walk per day plus indoor play will tire them out and reduce destructive behavior.

• Plan on giving them about 20-30 minutes of exercise each day, whether it’s walks around the block, playing fetch inside, or letting them zoom around the backyard.
• Interactive toys and daily play sessions can help keep them engaged.

Diet and Nutrition

According to PetMD, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is relatively common in toy breeds like Pomeranians. With this in mind, you’ll want to feed high-quality dog food to ensure your pup is getting the right amount of nutrients to support their overall health. Adult and senior Poms should eat at least two, preferably three, meals daily to reduce their risk of hypoglycemia. How much you feed your Pom will depend on several factors, including their age, activity level, and overall health status.

• Feed small, frequent meals (2-3 times daily) to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Choose high-quality dog food tailored to their needs.

Health Concerns

Pomeranians are generally healthy, but they can be more prone to certain health conditions than other breeds. Here are some common issues:

• Hypoglycemia: A sudden drop in blood sugar, common in small breeds and puppies under 3 months. Most cases are caused by an inadequate diet.
• Collapsing Trachea: A condition that typically presents as an honking cough. Treatment can include surgery, management through medication, or both.
• Eye Conditions: Pomeranians may be prone to developing eye conditions like keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), tear duct issues, and cataracts.
• Orthopedic Issues: Poms may develop patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, which can cause hip pain and lameness.
• Alopecia: Pomeranians can develop symmetrical hair loss on their abdomen and thighs, with skin becoming dark but not usually itchy.

Training and Socialization

Pomeranians are intelligent dogs who often excel in obedience trials and love to learn tricks. However, Pomeranians can also be strong-willed so consistency is key, along with lots of positive reinforcement. Early socialization training is crucial for helping Pomeranians accept and adapt to new dogs and people around them.

• Use positive reinforcement with treats to train effectively.
• Start socialization early to prevent antisocial behaviors.
• Keep training sessions short to match their attention span.

Comparison Table: Pomeranian vs. Other Toy Breeds

Best Products for Pomeranian Owners

• Dog Bed: A comfortable bed is essential for your Pom’s rest. Check out options like the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed for small breeds.
• Grooming Brush: A slicker brush is a must for their fluffy coat. Try the Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Brush.
• High-Quality Dog Food: Prevent hypoglycemia with a nutritious diet like Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pomeranians good for first-time dog owners?

Pomeranians can be challenging for first-time owners due to their stubbornness and high grooming needs. However, with dedication to training and care, they can be a rewarding choice.

Do Pomeranians get along with children?

Pomeranians can be great with older children who understand how to handle them gently. They are too fragile for homes with toddlers who might accidentally injure them.

How can I reduce my Pomeranian’s barking?

Consistent training, early socialization, and providing mental stimulation through toys and activities can help manage excessive barking.

What is the best way to groom a Pomeranian?

Brush their coat daily with a slicker brush, bathe every 3-4 weeks with dog-specific shampoo, and regularly clean their ears and brush their teeth to maintain their health and appearance.

Conclusion

Pomeranians are delightful companions with big personalities packed into tiny bodies. Their adorable appearance, loyalty, and adaptability make them a favorite for many, but their grooming needs, vocal tendencies, and fragility require careful consideration. By understanding their traits, care requirements, and potential challenges, you can decide if a Pomeranian is the right fit for your lifestyle. With proper care, training, and love, a Pomeranian can bring years of joy and companionship to your home.