The
Pomeranian is a tiny, fluffy dog with a
wedge-shaped head and pointed erect ears.
Some have faces that breeders liken to a
fox; others have baby-doll or "pansy" faces.
All have bright, dark, almond-shaped eyes
with an intelligent expression. The nose
is either dark or the color of its coat.
The teeth should meet in a scissors bite.
Poms also boast a distinctive feathered
tail that fans forward over the back. There
is an abundant ruff around the neck and
chest area. The profuse stand-off double
coat usually comes in solid colors. Any
solid color is allowed, but the most common
are red, orange, white or cream, blue, brown
or black. Sometimes the coat is parti-colored
(white with colored markings), black &
tan, wolf or orange sable.
Temperament
The
Pomeranian is a lively little dog. Intelligent,
eager to learn, very loyal to its handler
and family. Willful, bold and sometimes
temperamental. If it is properly introduced
they usually get along with other dogs and
household animals without any problems,
but some of them seem to think they are
much larger than they actually are and do
not hesitate to attack much bigger dogs.
It is an excellent watchdog with a resounding
bark. Poms have a tendency to be reserved
and bark at strangers excessively. Teach
this dog early that it may bark a couple
of times when the doorbell rings or when
there are visitors, but then to keep quiet.
Be very consistent about this. They are
alert, curious and busy: one of the most
independent of the Toy breeds. Poms have
a delightful nature and do not cling to
their handlers. Proud and happy, they are
good at learning tricks, but need a firm
hand. The Pomeranian must know the owner
is the boss, or he will not listen. This
breed may become too demanding if the owner
allows it. Not recommended for very young
children. Too much attention from children
can make these dogs nervous and they may
become snappish. However, they can get along
well with older, well behaved children.
It is a good companion for an elderly person.
The Pom is a wonderful companion dog and
show ring contender. The breed's docile
temper and affectionate nature endear it
to many. Its vivacity and spirit make it
well-liked by persons who do not usually
care for toy dogs. They may be picky eaters.
Some
blood lines are prone to slipped stifle,
dislocated patella (knee-cap), heart
and skin problems, and eye infections. Since
Pomeranians are prone to early tooth loss,
feeding dry food is recommended to keep
the teeth and gums in good condition. Be
sure the veterinarian also keeps the dog's
teeth clean. Newborn pups are rather tiny
and fragile. Three newborns can be held
in the palm of ones hand. Small females
often need cesarean sections deliveries.
When the dog is old it may become molted
with bald spots.
Living
Conditions
The
Pomeranian is good for apartment living.
They are very active indoors and will do
okay without a yard. Keep the dog quiet
in hot weather to avoid overheating.
Exercise
Poms
need a daily walk. Play will take
care of a lot of their exercise needs, however,
as with all breeds, play will not fulfill
their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who
do not get to go on daily walks are more
likely to display behavior problems. They
will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open
area off lead, such as a large fenced in
yard.
Life
Expectancy
About
15 years.
Grooming
The
Pomeranian's very long, double coat should
be brushed frequently. If you work from
the head, parting the coat and brushing
it forward, it will fall neatly back in
place, so the task, although time-consuming,
is relatively easy. The cottony undercoat
is shed once or twice a year. Dry shampoo
when necessary. Clean the eyes and ears
daily and take the dog for regular dental
checkups. The Pomeranian is a constant shedder.
Origin
Developed
in the Prussian region of Pomerania, the
Pomeranian was originally descended from
the ancient Spitz breeds of the far north
which were brought to Europe and employed
to herd sheep. The Pom ancestors weighed
up to 30 pounds. Marie Antoinette, Emile
Zola and Mozart all owned Pomeranians. In
the late 1800's Queen Victoria became a
Pomeranian fancier, and established her
own kennel for their breeding. She showed
her dogs, with some success, making the
breed very popular in England. Because Queen
Victoria preferred smaller dogs, many breeders
began selecting for smaller size. Now the
Pomeranian has been bred down from his original
size to customary 4-5 pounds. The Pomeranian's
intelligence and talent for showmanship
have also made him a superior circus performer.
Today's Pomeranian is primarily a loving
companion and beautiful show dog. Some of
the Pom's talents include: watchdogging,
agility and performing tricks.
