Pomeranian

Quick Facts:
Group Classification: Toy Group
Country of Origin: Germany and Poland
Date of Origin: Between 1837 and 1900
Weight M: 3-7 pounds
Height M: 7-12 inches
Weight F: 3-7 pounds
Height F: 7-12 inches
Colors All colors and patterns and variations but orange and red are most popular
Alternate Names Zwergspitz; Spitz nain; Spitz enano; Pom; Zwers
Life Expectancy 12 to 19 years

History

The Pomeranian is a Nordic breed whose name refers to Pomerania, an area now considered to be part of northern Germany and Poland. Originally the breed weighed 20 to 30 pounds and was adept in sledging and herding. The Pomeranian was introduced to British nobility by Queen Charlotte. The breed gained international popularity when the Queen’s granddaughter, Victoria, went on a vacation to Florence, Italy with a Pomeranian. The Pomeranians owned by her and her granddaughter were the much larger German Spitz. In fact, all other Pomeranians before the 20th Century were larger dogs. It was during Queen Victoria’s reign that the Pomeranian was miniaturized and became popular. Presently, the Pomeranian is among the most popular breeds. In its own way, the Pomeranian has become a sort of an accessory to women and celebrities.

General Description

The ideal weight for a Pomeranian is between 4 to 6 pounds, but the average weight ranges between 3 to 7 pounds. The Pomeranian comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and variations and each is judged equally. A compact dog with a short back, the distance from shoulder to buttocks is a bit shorter than the distance from highest point of the withers to the ground. The distance from the lower chest to the ground is half the height at withers. The dog is medium boned and the length of the legs are well proportioned to a balanced frame. Although small, upon examination they feel sturdy. Head is in proportion to the body, with a short, fine, and straight muzzle. They possess the harsh double coat of their ancestors. The outer coat is straight, long, and glistening, and has a harsh texture. Its undercoat is soft and fluffy. Actually, this coat is the breed's major distinction and must be groomed regularly. The Pomeranian's tail is set high, heavily plumed and lies flat on their back. Their gait is smooth, balanced and vigorous.

Temperament

The Pomeranian is a spirited dog, extroverted and intelligent. He also loves to please and is a great family dog if trained properly. The Pomeranian is typically friendly and loves to be around his owner. They can be easily housebroken and trained. They tend to become nervous if given too much attention by children. May be prone to barking too much upon being rewarded. Some Poms are inclined to ignore their small size and attack bigger dogs. In line with their original habitat and heavy coat, they prefer cold climates. It is not unusual to find your Pomeranian lying on a cold floor. Healthy Pomeranians are known to live for 12 to 19 years. Problems like hip dysplasia are rare in this small breed. However, congenital heart defects and tracheal collapse has become a serious problem in recent times. Skin problems like dermatitis, allergies and alopecia are quite common. Dry eye or tear duct problems are known to lead to blindness in young females. Other problems that owners should be aware of include hypothyroidism, Hypoglycemia and epilepsy. Moreover, due to his small size and delicate body the Pomeranian has to be protected from injuring himself.

Pets4You offers listings of Pomeranian breeders with puppies for sale.