Read About Pomeranian

Pomeranian the smallest of the Spitz family has the temperament of a larger dog. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Dwarf member of Spitz family

2. Weight:

   3 -- 7 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Short, thick and coarse

4. Shedding:

   Heavy

5. Temperament:

   Prefers adult company, barks a lot, very curious and intelligent

6. Obedience:

   May become stubborn.

7. Ease of Training:

   They are very intelligent and easy to train, but needs training as soon as possible after purchase.

8. Way with Children:

   Are not recommended for homes with small children due to their temperament.

Pomeranian -- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Toy Dog, 1900

2. Size & Weight:

   8 -- 11 inches, ideal weight 4 --6 lbs

3. Coat:

   Has a soft and dense undercoat, and a long strait rough textured outer-coat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The head is direct proportion to the rest of the body and the muzzle is short, straight and find resembling a fox.

5. Body:

   The neck is short, leveled back, body is compact, and the tail lies flat on the back.

6. Colors:

   The AKC recognizes thirteen colors or color combinations: black, black & tan, blue, blue & tan, chocolate, chocolate & tan, cream, cream sable, orange, orange sable, red, red sable, and sable.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-16 years

8. Popularity:

   The most popular toy dog of the top ten AKC breeds in the United States.

9. Habitat:

   These dogs can be well suited in an apartment, but may have housebreaking difficulties.

Pomeranian -- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Germany

2. Historical Information:

   The original Pomeranian was a much larger dog that was used as a sled dog in Iceland and Lapland. They are ancestors from the Norwegian Elkhound, Samoyed, Schipperke, and the Spitz breed.

Pomeranian -- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Pomeranians are very confident, eager and temperamental dogs.

2. Behavior:

   They have a tendency to bark when they sense danger and will make good guard dogs.

3. Habits:

   These dogs are lively and eager to learn loyal and loving and can adapt to city living.

Pomeranian -- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Pattern baldness, gum disease, low blood sugar and decay of teeth

2. Exercise Needs:

   Puppies love short walks and exercise needs are met in the immediate yard.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Coats requires brushing at least once a week.

4. Travel Needs:

   Pomeranians will need to be crated when traveling. Make sure that you take a leash, medical supplies and food. Contact your lodging facilities to ensure that pets are allowed prior to traveling.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Well-behaved children will be more suited for the Pomeranian and will get along with other pets if introduced to them slowly.

Pomeranian -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   These puppies are bold, busy and energetic. Make sure that it has bright eyes and a healthy coat. Check the ears for discoloration of pigmentation. They should not have a foul-smelling odor in their mouth.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   You will need to establish a method of housetraining. Puppies will need a bed, food, a chewing toy, and flea and tick supplies.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Make sure that all electrical wiring has been secure from entanglement or chewing. Keep all kid toys out of reach for sanitation purposes.