Pomeranian
Country/Date of Origin: Germany/1800s
Originally the Pomeranian was a much larger dog, which was used for herding. It was discovered in the Pomeranian region of Germany from which it also derived its name. It is a member of the Spitz family, which includes Samoyeds, Malamutes, and Chow Chows. Through careful selection of breeding stock, the dog from Pomerania was reduced in size from 30 pounds to its present day 4 or 5 pound self. The breed underwent most of the size reduction in Victorian England but saw continued miniaturization in the 20th Century. The Pomeranian has been recognized in the United States since 1900.
Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns
Back to TopDwarf Spitz
AKC Group: Toy
Breed Club: American Pomeranian Club
Rescue Club: American Pomeranian Club Rescue
Back to TopBody Type:
- A dwarf member of the Spitz family that includes the sled dogs
- Height: 11 inches (at shoulder)
- Weight: 4-5 1/2 pounds
- Erect, pricked ears are not altered
- Upright tail tilts forward over the body
- Expression is described as "foxy"
Personality:
- Very intelligent, alert, and curious
- Downright noisy
- Excitable nature often accompanied by excessive barking
- Prefers the company of adults
- Tends to become overexcited by children
Coat:
- A heavy double coat that stands out from the body. The undercoat is short and thick and the outercoat is longer and coarse
- The feel of the Pom's coat is somewhat harsh
- Colors and combinations of colors are numerous
- Solids of any color are allowed with or without shadings of sable
- Parti-colors and black and tan bicolors are also permitted
- Show classes are divided by color. Red is the most commonly seen color
- The profuse coat takes three years to reach maturity
- Heavy shedding
Health Concerns:
- Skin problems including pattern baldness, hot spots or allergies
- Gum disease and tooth loss
- As with other tiny dogs, tracheal collapse is possible
- Low blood sugar
Tasty Tidbits:
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