Webvet
Main Content
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a lively toy breed that requires regular grooming.
They are excellent companions that are smart and ready to meet the world.
Try out our new Dog Breed Chooser Tool to help you select a breed.
Breed Facts
Finding a Pomeranian
Physical Characteristics
- Coat: Soft, dense undercoat; straight, harsher, textured outer coat comes in solid red, orange, cream, sable, black brown, blue and patterns such as brindle and parti-colored (white with color patches)
- Dark, almond-shaped eyes
- Short, thin muzzle with dark nose; nose is sometimes the same color as coat
- Short, thin muzzle with dark nose; nose is the same color as coat
- Small, erect ears
- Unique, feathered tail lays forward over dog's back
- Distinct neck ruff
- Height: 8.5-11 inches
- Weight: 3-7 pounds
- Average lifespan: 15 years
Temperament
- Smart, curious, alert, lively, outgoing, loyal, affectionate, bold, temperamental
- Interaction with people: Good with mature children, senior citizens. Good companion dog.
- Protection: Excellent watchdog; may bark at strangers but can be trained out of it
Medical Conditions
- Alopecia X (skin disorder)
- Congenital cardiac disease (including patent ductus arteriosus)
- Hypoglycemia
- Patellar luxation
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy and entropion)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Keep cool in warm weather to avoid overheating
- Needs daily walk
- Can be finicky about its diet
- Enjoys learning
Grooming
- Frequent shedder; undercoat sheds once or twice a year
- Eyes and ears need daily cleaning
- Brush frequently
Other Facts
- Marie Antoinette, Emile Zola and Mozart all owned Pomeranians
- Bred down from original 30-pound size to 4-5 pounds
- Also known as "Poms" or "toy German Spitz"
- Intelligence and showmanship make it a superior circus performer
Breed History
- Native to Germany
- Descendant of the Spitz family, sled dogs of Iceland and Lapland
- Named after the region of Pomerania that comprises the southern coast of the Baltic Sea - present-day Germany and Poland
- Gained popularity with breeders in the 19th century when Queen Victoria added them to her collection of small dogs
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the American Pomeranian Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit APC Rescue
Introducing Pet-Pods...
FREE downloadable PDF files providing a comprehensive review of some of the most timely pet health topics: Allergies, Fleas, Summer Safety Hazards, and Vomiting and Diarrhea.
Newsletter Signup
Featured Video
Featured Photo
Social Media Icons
Follow Us: