If you are planning to purchase, adopt, or rescue a Pomeranian I hope this will help you decide if it is the right dog for you and/or your family. Pomeranians are totally unique dogs full of personality. They are sometime called poms for short.
Pomeranian History
In the early days the Pomeranian had ancestors that were larger dogs used for herding sheep and protecting livestock. They were recognized by the English Kennel Club (EKC) in 1870. This breed become more recognized and popular after Queen Victoria started breeding and showing the Pomeranian in the late 1880’s. Furthermore, this is also around the time the American Kennel Club (AKC) started to recognize the dog breed as well. At first this breed was a larger sized dog but it is now much smaller and considered to be a toy breed.
Characteristics
Many people refer to the Pomeranian as a little lion. These dogs have a small and pointed face and are quite fluffy. They can also easily be described as short and compact dogs. The average weight is around 4.5 lbs (2 kg). These dogs may be small but they are full of energy and tend to be loud and vocal dogs. Reasonably the most distinctive characteristic is the coat of the Pomeranian. This particular breed has a soft and fluffy undercoat with a long straight and rough textured overcoat. Another thing to note about these dogs is that they are typically a single-colored dog. They can range from a white through to orange which is the most common, or brown and black. The orange color is what reminds people of a lion.
Temperament
Poms are little dogs packed full of energy and are loyal dogs as well. Although they can be inclined to be bold, stubborn, and spirited you’ll be able to help him/her grow with positive reinforcement training. Providing good sources of fun will help burn off excess energy, such as playing outside, training, and going on walks. Giving them plenty of time to interact with their human and playtime with toys they will typically be a great dog. Pomeranians also do best in a home where someone is home most or all day. They are very affectionate and enjoy and strive on companionship.
Be sure to properly socialize your dog so they become accustomed to other dogs, of other breeds as well. Pomeranians can be “bossy” or sometimes dominant so watch out for that incase you encounter a more aggressive or a larger dog who is also dominant. Another thing is to be cautious of the situations you let your dog in. You don’t want to let them confront a larger dog who may be nice but playful and pick up your dog as this can hurt your dog.
Grooming
To keep your Pomeranian happy and with a nice fluffy coat, you will need to brush them daily. Also regular baths are very important. To keep this up, from the day your bring your pom home, you should introduce them to a brush. Make is a positive experience so they learn to enjoy and adapt to being brushed daily.
If you live in a warm climate during the summertime, consider getting your dog professionally groomed and having the fur cut down a bit to make sure they don’t overheat. You can also help by reducing walk times or walking in more shady areas to help them stay cool.
Since these dogs have long fur be sure to read up here on how to help prevent ticks.
Are Pomeranians Friendly?
These dogs can be quite affectionate and loving to the adults who own them. Overall they don’t enjoy being pet excessively so they may not be the best dog for households with younger children. Remember that these dogs are not always wanting to be held or pet so keep watch for signs they want to be put down and play with toys. Make sure to provide your pom a spot that is their own space where they won’t be disturbed, this will keep them happy.
Health Issues
Pomeranians can suffer from various health problems. Some of these are joint problems and hip or elbow dysplasia. Multiple eye problems can (such as dry eye and cataracts, and more) also occur as well as ear issues as well. Ear issues occurs due to the excessive fur around their ears. Skin issues are another concern so be sure to talk to your vet or breeder about the proper shampoo to use so you don’t irritate their skin. Since the pom is a small dog, they can have overcrowding of teeth which can lead to dental and gum problems. A good diet of high protein kibble or a raw diet can help this out.
Lifespan
Pomeranians typically live between 12-16 years which is an average. Even though they have or can have multiple health issues they are able to live a long and healthy life.
Do you have a Pomeranian? Any other advice I should give to those thinking of adopting, rescuing, or purchasing a Pomeranian?
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