Pomeranian

Pomeranians are lively little balls of fluff, but they weren’t always so tiny. Originating from a region which is now Germany and Poland, Poms used to weigh 20 to 30 pounds, but now typically weigh only 3 to 7 pounds.

Personality

Happy, spunky and active
Intelligent and independent
Courageous and loyal
Docile, but sometimes temperamental

Size

3-7 pounds
8-12 inches at the withers (shoulder)

Lifestyle

Suited to apartment living
Does well with older children
Not suited to small children, as Poms may get injured due to their small size. Alternatively, the child may be injured as Poms can get snappy.
Good companion to the elderly

Training

An intelligent dog who can learn lots of tricks
Learns quickly
Will need to be trained not to bark excessively, especially at visitors
Can be stubborn, so need firm training

Exercise

Enjoy walks
A small yard is sufficient for Poms to get enough exercise
Need lots of stimulation to avoid boredom, which will lead to trouble

Coat

Very fluffy coat
Soft, dense undercoat
Coarse outercoat
Variety of colors and color combinations
Seasonal shedding

Care

Brushing a few times a week is needed
Occasional trimming of the coat
Teeth must be brushed a couple of times a week, as they are prone to teeth problems
Bathe only when necessary or their coat will be stripped of oils
Avoid getting your Pom overly hot, as they do not cope well with heat
Clean eyes and ears daily

Health

Prone to patella luxation, tracheal collapse, birthing problems, chronic eye discharge and hypothyroidism

Lifespan

12-16 years

Rescue

The American Pomeranian Club has a list of contacts for Pom rescue organizations around the nation.

PHOTO: Blackoranges

i Love Dogs, Inc.

i Love Dogs, Inc.’s three websites – ilovedogs.com, ilovedogfriendly.com and findavet.us – provide information and up-to-the-minute news to keep pet parents aware of all things dog. A premium canine vitamins and lifestyle company, i Love Dogs is famous for its line of diamond dog collars. The name says it all — at i Love Dogs, we are committed to the health and happiness of our canine companions.