Pomeranian

Happy-go-lucky is a Pomeranian’s middle name, as their personality is equal parts friendly and inquisitive. They live for social interactions and to make their pet parents laugh out loud.

If you have kids at your house, you’ll be glad to learn that aggressiveness isn’t typically in this dog’s nature. Pomeranians aren’t known to be biters, although any dog may snap if provoked. So, keep a close eye on toddlers and preschoolers who may accidentally drop or clutch this fluffy furball too tightly—it’s easy to mistake a tiny Pomeranian for a favorite stuffed animal. Still, this breed is known to be rather compatible with their extended family, whether it includes other dogs, cats or children.

Not only do they have the looks, but also the smarts. Poms have competency in spades and they’re adept at picking up fun new tricks. If you’re hoping to try obedience classes with your Pomeranian, this breed is keenly intelligent and likely to get good grades!

Not surprisingly, the Pomeranian excels at jobs such as work as a therapy dog and is also known to make a fine watchdog since they’re not afraid to bark. And if looking absolutely adorable is considered a type of employment, then a Pom fills this requirement too—and you should hire this fur baby, pronto!

Pomeranians are sometimes described as cocky, which likely refers to their proud gait and bouncy personality. Smart, perky and alert to everything around them, the Pomeranian breed’s generally positive temperament makes them worthy of top-dog status in many types of families.

Pomeranians may look high maintenance, but there’s more to them than a fluffy fur coat. Poms are super smart and will enjoy learning new skills. They’re also active little pups, but it’s easy to get their exercise in—even in your own home. (After all, they have really short legs!)

The good news is that Pomeranians are generally healthy canines, though, like any breed, they have some health problems related to their tiny bodies that potential pet parents should learn about. If you’re planning on a purebred Pom, it’s wise to research responsible breeders that adhere to the American Pomeranian Club‘s recommended health screening for certain common conditions. Here’s more on the specifics:

• Patellar Luxation: The most common issue a screening would flag is one called patellar luxation, which is when the knee cap pops out of place, causing your Pom to limp (surgery may be needed to correct this issue).
• Collapsing Tracheas: Pomeranian health issues can also include collapsing tracheas, which can be fatal. It’s made worse by a too-tight collar pressing on the throat (you’ll hear a barking cough in this case). The condition is diagnosed by X-ray and controlled with drugs to reduce the cough.
• Low Thyroid Levels: Hypothyroidism is also very common in Poms and can include such signs as lethargy, hair thinning, a dry coat and an increase in weight without necessarily eating more kibble. A vet can run a blood test to diagnosis this issue (or another one) and it can be regulated with medications.
• Seizures: Seizures could be due to liver or kidney problems. Fortunately, anti-seizure medicines are available, so check with your pup’s vet to see which one will work best, based on your dog’s medical history and needs.
• Hypoglycemia: This condition of low blood sugar is seen in very small or very active Poms. You would notice your dog acting weak, sleepy, drunk, trembly and possibly having seizures. Keeping your puppy fed on a regular schedule helps prevent this issue, and most pups outgrow it as they mature.
• Hip Issues: The two hip concerns that can develop in Pomeranians are Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia, both of which occur when the ball and socket of this joint don’t develop and grow properly. The fix: weight management, medications to reduce inflammation and supplements to increase joint fluid and lubrication. Extreme cases may require surgery along with physical therapy after.
• Eye Problems: Pomeranians can occasionally exhibit eye problems, such as cataracts (cloudiness in the eye’s lens) and entropion, a condition that causes the eyelids to roll inward. These may be genetic and can be diagnosed and treated by a veterinary ophthalmologist, possibly with surgery.

• Hair loss: Alas, this breed’s luxurious locks may be affected by Severe Hair Loss Syndrome or Pomeranian alopecia. Also known as Alopecia X or Black Skin Disease, it’s mostly seen in male Poms. To learn if the puppy you’re considering could end up with coat loss, ask to see pictures of the dog’s parents.

For a top-notch Pom, it’s best to do your due diligence, so consider asking any potential breeder to document the health history of both parents to ensure the highest chance of getting a healthy Pomeranian.

The Pomeranian origin has European roots and was named for a region called Pomerania in today’s Poland and Germany. Poms are actually related to the breed of larger sled-pulling Spitz dogs, characterized by their pointy ears, thick coats, and a big tail that curves along the back. While Poms can trace their lineage to sled dogs in Iceland, the breed has officially retired from this cold-weather position. Still, you can imagine how their fluffy fur and outer coats would fit in nicely near the Arctic circle.

The British are big fans of Poms, thanks to the prominence the breed gained after Queen Victoria of England spied this pup while on a trip to Italy. She returned home with Poms in her bags and proceeded to breed and show the dogs for many years. In fact, it’s Queen Victoria who was largely responsible for the tiny size we associate with Poms today. Once a midsize dog of 30 pounds, Pomeranians now sit side by side with Chihuahuas and Maltese as one of the smallest breeds.

Pomeranians came to the United States in 1892 and are among the oldest of recognized American Kennel Club breeds, gaining the AKC distinction in 1888. In 1911, the American Pomeranian Club hosted its first specialty show—just for Poms!

So, where is the best place to find Pomeranian puppies today? Check this list of reputable Pomeranian breeders on the American Kennel Club’s website. As for the average Pomeranian price, depending on the breeder, you might spend between $500 to $1,500 for a pup. But for that, you usually get a dog who’s screened for health and temperament issues, and they might even come with pedigree papers. You can adopt a Pom through a Pomeranian rescue organization or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter.

Pomeranians are tiny lap dogs with a big heart and an even bigger personality. Active and curious, this breed enjoys a good bark, a nice walk and regular brushing. But most of all, a Pom is for you if you’re down to play—and snuggle that sweet lil’ foxy face.

Make Life More Fun with Your Pomeranian:

Essential Guide to Basic Training for Dogs

How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting

How to Crate Train an Older Dog

How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears