The Pomeranian (often known as a Pom) is a breed of dog of the Spitz type that is named for the Pomerania region in north-west Poland and north-east Germany. Classed as a toy dog breed, the Pomeranian is descended from larger Spitz-type dogs, specifically the German Spitz. It has been determined by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale to be part of the German Spitz breed, and in many countries, they are known as the Zwergspitz ("Dwarf Spitz").
The breed has been made popular by a number of royal owners since the 18th century. Queen Victoria owned a particularly small Pomeranian and consequently, the smaller variety became universally popular. During Queen Victoria's lifetime alone, the size of the breed decreased by half. Overall, the Pomeranian is a sturdy, healthy dog. As of 2017, in terms of registration figures, since at least 1998, the breed has ranked among the top fifty most popular breeds in the United States, and the current fashion for small dogs has increased their popularity worldwide.
Small but confident, Pomeranians have a fluffy coat and a big personality, known for being lively, curious, and loyal to their owners. They are intelligent and love to learn tricks, often showing off for their families. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are bold and protective, making them great little watchdogs.
The Pomeranian, often affectionately called the “Pom,” is a toy breed known for its bold personality and fluffy double coat. Despite its small size, this dog has a rich and illustrious history. The breed is named after the Pomerania region, which today lies in northern Poland and eastern Germany. However, the ancestors of the modern Pomeranian were much larger sled dogs from the Arctic, related to breeds like the Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, and Norwegian Elkhound.
The Pomeranian’s popularity began to rise in the 18th century, particularly with European royalty. Queen Victoria of England played a significant role in the breed’s development and popularity. During her reign, she fell in love with the breed while visiting Italy and eventually established a successful breeding program, favoring smaller-sized Pomeranians. The breed’s size was greatly reduced over time, and the Pomeranians of today are much more compact than their ancestors.
Pomeranians are known for their spirited temperament and confident nature. They have a lively and curious disposition, often acting as if they are unaware of their small size. This bold attitude makes them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to alert their owners of any unusual activity. However, their protective instincts and tendency to bark frequently mean that early socialization and training are crucial.
Despite their assertive nature, Pomeranian dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners. These little dogs enjoy being the center of attention and thrive in environments where they are doted upon and included in daily activities. Poms are intelligent and eager to learn, making them highly trainable. They do well with positive reinforcement techniques and enjoy mental stimulation through games, tricks, and obedience training.
Although they are affectionate, Pomeranians can sometimes be wary of strangers and may show a bit of an independent streak. They generally get along with other pets but should be introduced carefully and socialised from a young age. Their small size makes them a good fit for apartment living, but they require supervision around small children and other dogs to avoid accidental injuries.
Diet and Nutrition:
A high-quality, well-balanced diet is essential for a Pomeranian’s health. Poms are prone to obesity, so monitoring their calorie intake and feeding them appropriately sized meals is important. Many owners opt to feed their Poms two small meals per day. It is crucial to consult with your veterinarian to ensure the diet meets your dog's specific nutritional needs, especially as they age or if they have any health concerns.
Exercise:
Pomeranians are energetic and require daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Despite their small size, they have high energy levels and enjoy brisk walks, play sessions, and engaging activities like puzzle toys or fetch. About 20-30 minutes of exercise each day is usually sufficient, but they are happy to be active for longer if given the opportunity. Be mindful of their size and avoid overly strenuous activities that could put undue stress on their joints.
Grooming:
Pomeranians have a thick double coat that requires regular maintenance to stay healthy and free of mats. Brushing their coat at least three times a week is essential, though daily brushing is ideal during shedding seasons. Use a slicker brush or a comb to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, especially around the neck and chest area. Poms shed year-round but experience heavier seasonal shedding.
Bathing should be done every month or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo. Ensure the coat is thoroughly dried and brushed after a bath to prevent matting. Their fluffy coat can be trimmed for easier maintenance, but it should never be shaved down, as this can damage the coat and reduce its insulating properties.
Dental Care:
Dental hygiene is crucial for Pomeranians, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Brush their teeth several times a week with dog-specific toothpaste and consider providing dental chews to help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Nail Care and Ear Cleaning:
Trim your Pom’s nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Check their ears weekly for signs of wax buildup or infection and clean them gently with a vet-recommended ear cleaner.
Health Considerations:
Pomeranians are generally healthy but are prone to certain health issues, including patellar luxation (knee dislocation), tracheal collapse, heart problems, and dental disease. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor for these conditions and maintain overall well-being. Additionally, Pomeranians can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, so it is important to keep them cool and hydrated during warm weather.
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