This toy dog, the Pomeranian,
is a member of the spitz family that gets its name
from the Pomerania region of Poland and Germany. The
breed with this name was originally a much larger
animal but was bred down to make the dog fit more
comfortably in the city homes and apartments. Though
selective breeding has reduced the breed’s average
size, the small dog has a thick coat typical of its
ancestors from Lapland and northern Europe.
Most Pomeranians weigh from 3 pounds to 7 pounds,
making this one of the smallest of all breeds. The
dog has two layers of coat, with the undercoat being
soft and fluffy. The outer coat is longer and
coarser. The undercoat is shed once each year,
though females shed after they deliver a litter and
in times of great stress. This breed comes in a
variety of colors, with variations of sable and red,
cream, black, white and even parti-color.
Temperament
The Pomeranian is an active,
intelligent dog that is quite loyal to its master
and to family members. Its small size can lead to
teasing and abuse from younger children. With
training, the Pomeranian’s tendency to bark or “yip”
loudly and continuously can be controlled. This
breed does adapt well to living in a small home or
apartment, however.
Pomeranians can sometimes be temperamental and may
bark excessively when a stranger comes to the home.
One of the most independent of the toy breeds, the
Pomeranian is alert and curious. This dog can learn
tricks and is quite willing to please its master,
but the owner must let the young dog know who is
boss. Pomeranians make excellent companions for
elderly persons.
Size and Color
Its small stature makes the Pomeranian popular with
apartment dwellers, but the breed’s beautiful colors
attract many more owners. Many Pomeranians are a
solid color, usually red, white, cream, blue, brown,
and black or a shade of orange. The Pomeranian can
also be black and tan, black and white, or
parti-colored (white with colored markings).
A grown Pomeranian will stand from 7 inches to 12
inches tall and will weigh from 3 pounds to 7
pounds. Though this is a small dog, it is actually
quite sturdy and solid under the thick coat.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
In recent years, many breeders and experienced
owners have moved to fresh food diets for their
purebred dogs. Others stay away from feeding raw
meat because of the possibility of bacterial
infections. One of the popular choices for many
people is to feed the new pet a planned diet of
fresh foods similar to what they bring home from the
store for themselves. This can be a good diet for a
healthy dog, but it may be best to consult with your
veterinarian and breeder before settling on a diet
for your Pomeranian. It may be best to avoid cheaper
commercial foods because of the possibility of
allergies.
The Pomeranian has a long double coat, with a softer
undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. The coat
should be brushed regularly and many dog-grooming
professionals follow the pattern of brushing from
the head back and working a part that allows the
longer hair to fall into place. The Pomeranian sheds
most of the time, so be prepared to clean up and
brush to keep this under control.
Exercise Needs
The Pomeranian is an active energetic dog that will
do very well in a small home or apartment. Because
of its size, it does not require a great deal of
room to run and get exercise. However, you should
allow time and space for this active little dog to
use up some of its energy.
Taking your Pomeranian for short walks occasionally
may be a good idea, especially if you use a light
leash. Keep in mind that this breed does need daily
activity of some sort to avoid physical problems.
The Pomeranian will get bored without some regular
exercise and activity with you.
