Pomeranian

The Pomeranian’s history dates back centuries and is closely linked to the development of Spitz-type dogs in Europe. It’s believed that the ancestors of all Spitz breeds, including Pomeranians, are ancient peat dogs (Canis familiaris palustris Rütimeyer), whose remains have been found in Switzerland and near Lake Ladoga, dating back to the Stone Age. Images of dogs resembling modern Spitzes appear on artifacts from Ancient Greece and Rome, confirming their long history.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Spitz-type dogs were widespread in Asia, Africa, and Europe. They became particularly popular in Northern Europe, especially in Germany, Holland, Denmark, and the Baltic states. It was here that the modern Spitz breeds were developed. Larger specimens were used as guards for courtyards, ships, and farm buildings, thanks to their alertness and loud bark. There’s a theory that large Spitzes may have been crossed with Northern sled dogs, as indicated by their physical resemblance. A connection to European herding dogs is also possible.

By the late 19th century, smaller Spitzes had become some of the most popular toy dogs in Europe. They were often kept as pets by the nobility and aristocracy. Well-known historical figures such as the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the writer Jean Paul, Empress Catherine II, Queen Marie Antoinette, Joséphine de Beauharnais, and the writer Émile Zola were all fond of these charming dogs.

Germany: The Homeland of Modern Spitzes

The modern homeland of the breed is considered to be Germany, specifically the historical region of Pomerania (hence the name “Pomeranian”), located on the Baltic Sea coast (now parts of Germany and Poland). The first mention of the name “Spitzhund” dates back to 1450 in the Lower Rhine district. In the 18th century, a focused breeding programme began. Different regions of Germany specialised in breeding Spitzes of specific colours:

• White Spitzes: Pomerania and Eberswalde.
• Grey (Wolfspitz/Keeshond): Along the Rhine (Düsseldorf, Aachen, Krefeld).
• Black Spitzes: Württemberg (used to guard vineyards).

Initially, Spitzes were primarily working dogs, but over time, they were noticed by the gentry and became popular indoor pets. Small specimens weighing 5-7 kg were especially valued.

The Role of England and Queen Victoria

Upon arriving in England, Spitzes gained even greater popularity, especially during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901). The Queen was a passionate enthusiast of the breed, particularly after bringing several Pomeranians back from Florence, Italy, in 1888. Her favourite was a small Pomeranian named Marco, weighing about 5.4 kg (significantly more than modern standards). Thanks to royal favour, the breed became extremely fashionable among the English aristocracy. It was in England that active work began on miniaturising the breed and developing a variety of colours, especially orange and sable.

In 1891, the English Pomeranian Club was founded, which developed the first breed standard. The dogs were divided into two categories: under 2.5 kg and over 2.5 kg. Until 1915, the club allowed dogs weighing no more than 3.6 kg at shows. These dogs were nicknamed “Queen Victoria’s Pomeranians”. Modern English-type Pomeranians are often characterised by a smaller stature, lighter bone structure, and a very voluminous, soft coat with an abundance of undercoat. Their heads have a distinct “baby-face” with very short muzzles and tiny ears.

The Pomeranian in America

In the late 19th century, German Spitzes (mostly white) arrived in America, where their larger variety became known as the “American Eskimo Dog” (not to be confused with the Pomeranian). The Pomeranian was recognised as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1900, and its standard was published. In 1909, the American Pomeranian Club was officially established, holding its first specialty show in 1911.

Today, the American type of Pomeranian is considered one of the most prominent in the world. These dogs are characterised by a strong, compact build and good bone structure; they are quite “heavy” for their small size and have excellent, free-flowing movement. The coat is very dense, with rich colours. The head is often described as a “bear type” with a short but not flat muzzle, very small, almost unnoticeable ears, and expressive eyes. Preparing these dogs for shows requires high-level grooming skills.

The Breed’s Development in Other Countries

In France, Miniature Spitzes (Loulou de Poméranie) can be slightly larger and lighter in build, resembling dogs of a bygone era. They often have a longer, more pointed muzzle (“fox type”) and larger, though correctly set, ears. The coat may have a less developed undercoat, making the “ruff” less voluminous. French grooming style often aims for a more natural look, without heavily rounding the ears and paws.

In Germany, the breed’s homeland, the “German Spitz” association (Verein für Deutsche Spitze) was founded in 1899, establishing standards for Spitzes of various sizes and colours. Modern German Pomeranians (Zwergspitz) often resemble their French counterparts, but typically have a stronger bone structure and more correct movement due to good angulation of the limbs. Head and tail carriage conform to the standard.

The Pomeranian is the embodiment of elegance and vivacity in a miniature package. Its appearance immediately catches the eye thanks to the luxurious double coat, which stands almost perpendicular to the body, creating the impression of a fluffy ball. This is a typical indoor companion dog, not suited for outdoor living.

Key features of the exterior:

• Size: Compact. The height at the withers, according to the FCI standard, is 20 cm ± 2 cm (i.e., from 18 to 22 cm). Dogs under 18 cm are undesirable. The weight should correspond to the height, usually ranging from 1.4 to 3.5 kg.
• Proportions: The ratio of height at the withers to body length is 1:1, giving the dog a square-shaped body.
• Head: Medium-sized, wedge-shaped when viewed from above, resembling a fox’s. The skull gradually narrows towards the nose. The stop (the transition from the forehead to the muzzle) is moderately pronounced, not sharp.
• Muzzle: Not too long, proportional to the skull (approximately 2:3). Lips are tight-fitting and black (brown in brown Spitzes). Jaws are well-developed, and the bite is scissor-like (a level bite is permissible).
• Nose: Small, round, and jet black (dark brown in brown Spitzes).
• Eyes: Medium-sized, almond-shaped, slightly slanted, and dark in colour. Eyelids are black (dark brown in brown Spitzes). The expression is lively and intelligent.
• Ears: Small, set high, relatively close together, triangular, pointed, and always carried upright.
• Neck: Medium length, broad at the base, slightly arched, without dewlap, covered with a thick coat that forms a lush ruff.
• Body: The top line flows smoothly into a short, straight back. The withers are pronounced. The loin is short, broad, and strong. The croup is broad, short, and not sloped. The chest is deep and well-developed, with a prominent forechest. The belly is moderately tucked up.
• Tail: Set high, medium length, very thickly plumed, curled over the back and lying snugly against it.
• Limbs: The forelegs are straight and parallel with a strong bone structure. Shoulders are muscular, and elbows are held close to the body. The hind legs are muscular, with moderate angulation, hocks are low, and they are parallel. The feet are small, round, “cat-like,” with tightly arched toes. Claws and pads are black (brown in brown Spitzes).
• Movement: Free, smooth, and springy, with good drive from the hindquarters.

Pomeranian Coat and Colours

The coat is the Pomeranian’s crowning glory. It is a double coat: a long, straight, somewhat harsh outer coat and a short, dense, cotton-like undercoat. It is the undercoat that lifts the outer coat, giving the dog its characteristic volume. The hair on the head, ears, and the front of the legs and paws is short and velvety. The rest of the body is covered with long, dense hair. On the neck and shoulders, it forms a lush “ruff,” on the back of the forelegs, it forms “feathers,” on the hind legs from the croup to the hocks, it forms voluminous “trousers,” and the tail is covered in very long hair.

Pomeranian colours are very diverse. The FCI standard for the Zwergspitz recognises the following varieties:

• Black: The undercoat and skin must also be dark. The colour is glossy black with no white or other markings.
• Brown: An even, dark brown colour.
• White: Pure white, without any yellowing, especially on the ears.
• Orange: An even, solid colour of medium intensity.
• Wolf-sable: A silver-grey colour with black tips on the hair. The muzzle and ears are dark. There is a characteristic pattern (“spectacles”) around the eyes. The ruff and “trousers” are lighter.
• Cream: From a light beige to a rich cream colour.
• Cream-sable: A cream base with dark (sable) hair tips.
• Orange-sable: An orange base with dark tips.
• Black and tan: A black base colour with clear red or fawn tan markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs, and under the tail.
• Parti-coloured: The base colour is white. Black, brown, grey, or orange patches are evenly distributed over the body.
• Blue: A very rare colour, which is a diluted black.
• Chocolate and tan: A brown base colour with tan markings.

The most popular colours today are orange and its variations (orange-sable, cream).

The Pomeranian is a big dog in a small body. Its character is a vibrant mix of playfulness, energy, loyalty, and a certain amount of stubbornness. Despite their tiny size, these dogs have a strong personality and don’t see themselves as small.

Key personality traits:

• Liveliness and Energy: Poms are true bundles of mischief. They adore games, walks, and any kind of activity. Their movements are swift and light. Even in old age, many Spitzes retain the playfulness of a puppy.
• Devotion to their Owner: Pomeranians are very attached to their person or family. They strive to be the centre of attention, accompanying their owner everywhere and participating in all family activities. This trait makes them excellent companions but can lead to separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods.
• Alertness and Watchdog Qualities: Pomeranians have excellent hearing and a natural watchdog instinct. They will always announce the arrival of guests or any suspicious sounds with a loud bark. This trait can become a problem if their tendency to bark excessively is not controlled from an early age. They are wary of strangers, which makes them good “doorbells.” For a more robust watchdog, you might consider a Yorkshire Terrier or a Jack Russell Terrier.
• Intelligence and Cunning: These are very intelligent dogs that quickly learn commands and various tricks. They are often seen in circus acts. However, their intelligence is combined with a certain amount of stubbornness. Training must be consistent and patient, using positive reinforcement methods. Harshness or punishment can have the opposite effect.
• Boldness: Despite their size, Pomeranians are very brave and decisive. They are not afraid to confront much larger dogs, so they need to be carefully supervised during walks.
• Adaptability: Pomeranians adapt well to different living conditions. They are comfortable in both a large house and a small flat, provided they get enough attention and physical activity. They can adjust to the rhythm of their owner’s life, whether an active young person or an elderly couple. Similar to other small companions, they need close contact with people.
• Attitude Towards Children and Other Animals: With proper socialisation, Pomeranians can get along well with older, careful children who know how to handle small dogs. However, due to their fragility, they are not suitable for families with very young children who might accidentally injure the dog. With other pets, especially if they grew up together, Spitzes usually get along, although they may try to dominate even larger dogs or cats.

Important to remember: A Pomeranian should not be treated as a living toy. It is a fully-fledged dog with its own needs for attention, training, and physical and mental stimulation. Despite many owners’ love for carrying them, Pomeranians need regular walks on a lead where they can explore the world and expend their energy.

Pomeranians are generally considered a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years. However, like many other breeds, especially toy breeds, they are prone to certain genetic and acquired diseases. Responsible breeders test their breeding dogs for hereditary diseases, but it’s important for potential owners to be aware of possible issues.

The most common health problems in Pomeranians:

• Luxating Patella: This is a genetic condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal position. The severity can range from mild (asymptomatic) to severe, requiring surgical intervention. The dog may limp, hold up a paw, or skip on three legs.
• Tracheal Collapse: A weakening of the tracheal cartilage rings, which leads to its narrowing during breathing. A characteristic symptom is a loud, “goose-like” cough, especially when excited, exercising, or when pressure is applied to the neck (e.g., from a collar). Using a harness instead of a collar is recommended. Treatment can be conservative or surgical.
• Dental and Gum Problems: Due to their small jaw, Pomeranians’ teeth are often crowded, which promotes plaque buildup, tartar formation, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Early tooth loss is a common problem. Regular oral hygiene (teeth brushing) and professional cleaning at the vet are necessary.
• Hypothyroidism: Insufficient production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include lethargy, weight gain, and skin and coat problems (including Alopecia X – symmetrical hair loss) and intolerance to cold. It is diagnosed with a blood test and treated with hormone replacement therapy.
• Alopecia X (Black Skin Disease): A hair loss syndrome of unknown aetiology. It is characterised by symmetrical baldness, often starting in areas on the hind legs, body, and tail. The skin in affected areas may darken. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes (hormonal disorders, allergies). Treatment is complex and not always effective.
• Cryptorchidism: A condition in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum in males. Undescended testicles have an increased risk of developing tumours, so neutering is recommended.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A hereditary eye disease that leads to gradual degeneration of the retina and blindness.
• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens, which can lead to impaired vision and blindness. It can be hereditary or develop with age.
• Entropion: An inward turning of the eyelid, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, leading to irritation and pain.
• Atlantoaxial Subluxation: Instability between the first (atlas) and second (axis) cervical vertebrae. It can cause neck pain and neurological symptoms.
• Sick Sinus Syndrome: A heart rhythm disorder that can lead to weakness and fainting.
• Dystocia: Due to the small size of the female and the relatively large head size of the puppies, birth in Pomeranians can be difficult and often requires a Caesarean section.

Disease Prevention

While it is impossible to completely avoid illnesses, you can significantly reduce the risks:

• Choose a Responsible Breeder: Buy a puppy only from trusted breeders who test their dogs for hereditary diseases and can provide the relevant documentation.
• Regular Vet Check-ups: Annual check-ups (and twice a year for older dogs) will help detect problems early.
• Vaccination and Parasite Control: Follow the vaccination schedule and regularly treat your dog for fleas, ticks, and worms.
• Proper Nutrition: Use high-quality food appropriate for the dog’s age and activity level. Control their weight, as obesity increases the strain on joints and the heart.
• Dental Care: Regularly brush your dog’s teeth with a special dog toothpaste and brush.
• Safety: Due to their small size and fragility, protect your Pomeranian from falls from heights and rough play with large dogs or small children. Use a harness instead of a collar.

The Pomeranian’s luxurious double coat requires regular and thorough care to maintain its healthy appearance and prevent matting. Neglecting grooming can lead not only to an untidy look but also to skin problems. Grooming a Pomeranian’s coat can be more demanding than, for example, a Maltese or a Biewer Terrier, due to the thick undercoat.

Key aspects of Pomeranian grooming:

• Brushing: This is the most important part of the care routine. You should brush your Pomeranian 2-3 times a week, and daily during shedding seasons (usually spring and autumn). Brush the coat against the direction of growth, layer by layer, paying special attention to areas where mats form most often: behind the ears, under the armpits, on the “trousers,” and under the tail. Use several tools:
  • A slicker brush: To fluff the coat and remove dead undercoat. Choose a slicker brush with long pins without rubber tips to reach the skin.
  • A metal comb with different tooth densities: To check for mats after using the slicker brush and to comb areas with shorter hair (behind the ears, under the armpits).
  • A spray conditioner: Never brush dry hair! Lightly mist it with a special spray before brushing to prevent breakage and static.
• Bathing: It’s recommended to bathe a Pomeranian once every 4-8 weeks or as needed. Washing too often can dry out the skin and coat. Use only high-quality shampoos and conditioners designed for dogs with double coats. Be sure to rinse all products thoroughly.
• Drying: Blow-drying is a must! After bathing, thoroughly blot the coat with a towel, then dry it with a hairdryer on a medium or low heat setting, while simultaneously brushing against the hair growth with a slicker brush. This helps to fluff the undercoat, add volume, and prevent matting. You must not leave a Pomeranian to air-dry, as the dense undercoat stays wet for a long time, which can lead to fungal infections and an unpleasant smell.
• Clipping: A hygienic clip includes trimming the hair around the anal area, on the paw pads (between the toes), and tidying up the shape of the paws (“cat paws”). You can also lightly trim the hair on the ears to emphasise their shape. Show dogs get a special breed-specific trim that gives the silhouette a rounded shape. Many owners of non-show dogs opt for a “pet clip” or “teddy bear clip,” where the hair on the body is significantly shortened. Important: Never shave a Pomeranian bare! This can damage the coat’s structure, and it may not grow back properly. It also removes the dog’s protection from the sun and cold.
• Nail Care: Trim their nails every 2-4 weeks using special nail clippers for small dogs. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time to trim them.
• Ear Care: Regularly check their ears for redness, dirt, or an unpleasant smell. Clean them as needed with a cotton pad moistened with a special ear cleaning solution.
• Eye Care: Wipe the corners of their eyes with a damp tissue or cotton pad to remove tear stains, especially in light-coloured dogs.
• Shedding: Pomeranians shed, especially heavily twice a year. There is also the so-called “puppy uglies,” which usually happens at 4-8 months of age. During this period, the puppy loses its soft baby coat, and the coarser adult coat begins to grow in its place. The puppy may look a bit scruffy during this time, but it’s a normal process. Regular brushing will help speed up the shedding process and keep the skin healthy.

Despite their toy dog appearance, the Pomeranian is an intelligent and trainable dog. Proper training and early socialisation are key to raising a well-behaved and pleasant companion.

Key aspects of training:

• Early Socialisation: This is critically important for Pomeranians. Introduce the puppy to different people, sounds, places, and other (vaccinated and friendly) dogs from an early age (after the necessary vaccinations). This will help them grow into a confident dog that won’t be overly timid or react aggressively to new situations or strangers.
• Positive Reinforcement: Pomeranians respond best to training methods based on positive reinforcement—praise, treats, and toys. They are eager to please their owner but can be sensitive to criticism and punishment. Harshness can cause fear or stubbornness.
• Consistency and Patience: Be consistent in your demands and rules. Pomeranians are smart and will quickly learn if you are lenient. Their stubborn streak requires patience from the owner. Training sessions should be short (5-10 minutes) and engaging so the dog doesn’t lose interest.
• Basic Commands: Start with basic commands: “sit,” “lie down,” “come,” “stay,” “leave it.” These commands are vital for the dog’s safety and control.
• Potty Training: Like many small breeds, Pomeranians may require more time and patience for potty training. Frequent trips outside (especially after waking up, eating, and playing), praise for correct behaviour, and using a crate or playpen can help with this process.
• Bark Control: Pomeranians are prone to barking. It’s important to teach the dog the “quiet” or “speak” command from the very beginning (to bark on command) and not to encourage barking without reason. Provide enough mental and physical stimulation so the dog doesn’t bark out of boredom.
• Preventing “Small Dog Syndrome”: Do not let your Pomeranian do things you wouldn’t allow a large dog to do (e.g., jumping on people, being aggressive). Due to their cute appearance, owners often indulge bad behaviour, which can lead to problems.
• Activity and Games: Although Pomeranians don’t need exhausting physical activity, they do need daily walks of short to medium duration (20-30 minutes) and time for play at home or in a safe area. They also excel in dog sports such as agility (for small dogs), obedience, freestyle (dog dancing), and scent work. Mental stimulation (puzzle toys, searching games) is also very important.

Training a Pomeranian is not a difficult but a constant process that helps build a strong bond between the dog and the owner and makes their life together harmonious.

Proper nutrition is the foundation of a Pomeranian’s health and longevity. Due to their small size and predisposition to certain issues (e.g., dental problems or obesity), choosing a diet and feeding schedule requires careful attention.

Types of feeding:

• Dry Kibble: This is the most convenient and often recommended option. Choose high-quality food of the super-premium or holistic class, specially formulated for small dog breeds. Such foods are balanced in their composition of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The size of the kibble is also adapted for small jaws. Dry food helps mechanically clean teeth from plaque.
• Wet Food (Cans): Can be used as a supplement to dry food or as the main diet (especially for dogs with dental problems). They are usually tastier but do not provide teeth cleaning.
• Natural Diet: Feeding home-cooked food is possible but requires careful planning and knowledge to ensure a balanced diet. The basis should be lean meat (beef, turkey, chicken), offal, fermented milk products (low-fat cottage cheese, kefir), vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, courgette), and a small amount of grains (rice, buckwheat). You absolutely must not give the dog food from the table, sweets, smoked products, bones (especially hollow ones), fatty, fried, spicy, onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, or avocado. It’s best to entrust the creation of a natural diet to a veterinary nutritionist.

Feeding schedule:

• Puppies (up to 6 months): Feed 3-4 times a day in small portions.
• Adolescents (6-12 months): Transition to feeding twice a day.
• Adult dogs (after 1 year): Feed 1-2 times a day. Most owners prefer feeding twice a day (morning and evening) to avoid long breaks between meals.

Important points:

• Portion Size: Follow the food manufacturer’s recommendations on the packaging, but adjust the portion based on the dog’s age, weight, activity level, and individual characteristics. Pomeranians are prone to gaining weight, so it’s important not to overfeed.
• Fresh Water: Your dog should always have access to clean, fresh water.
• Treats: Use treats in moderation, mainly during training. Choose special treats for small dog breeds. Remember that the calories from treats must be accounted for in the total daily diet.
• Transitioning to New Food: If you decide to change food, do it gradually over 7-10 days, slowly mixing the new food with the old one to avoid digestive upsets.
• Vitamins and Supplements: When feeding a high-quality, balanced diet, additional vitamin and mineral complexes are usually not needed unless prescribed by a vet for specific indications. For a natural diet, supplements are mandatory.

Before getting a Pomeranian, it is important to weigh all the pros and cons to understand if this breed is right for you and your lifestyle.

• Royal Favourites: In addition to Queen Victoria, the breed’s enthusiasts included Queen Charlotte (wife of George III) and Joséphine de Beauharnais.
• Survivors of the “Titanic”: It’s known that at least two Pomeranian Spitzes survived the sinking of the “Titanic” in 1912. Their owners, Margaret Hays and Elizabeth Rothschild, were able to carry their small pets onto the lifeboats.
• Art and Music: Michelangelo was working on painting the Sistine Chapel with his Pomeranian Spitz by his side. The composer Frédéric Chopin wrote “The Minute Waltz” (Waltz No. 6 in D-flat major, Op. 64, No. 1), inspired by the play of his friend George Sand’s Spitz chasing its own tail.
• Larger Ancestors: The first Pomeranians brought to England weighed about 10-14 kg and were used for guarding and herding sheep. Only through selective breeding, especially under the patronage of Queen Victoria, did the breed achieve its modern miniature size.
• Variety of Colours: Although orange and cream shades are the most popular today, white, black, and chocolate colours predominated in the breed’s early history.
• “Teddy Bear” and “Fox Face” Types: Unofficially, two types of muzzles are distinguished in Pomeranians: “teddy bear”—a shorter one with more prominent cheeks, and “fox face”—a more elongated, classic Spitz muzzle. The breed standard does not make this distinction, but these terms are often used by owners and breeders.
• Coat Colour Change: Many Pomeranian puppies are born one colour, and as they age, their coat can change shade significantly, especially after the first shedding. For example, a grey puppy might become cream or orange.

Do Pomeranians shed a lot?
Yes, Pomeranians shed. They have a dense undercoat that is renewed. The most intense shedding occurs twice a year (seasonally). There is also a significant “puppy uglies” shed at around 4-8 months of age. Regular brushing helps control the amount of hair in the home.

Are Pomeranians suitable for families with children?
They can get along with older, careful children who know how to handle small dogs. However, due to their fragility, they are not recommended for families with very young children who might accidentally injure the dog.

How much physical activity does a Pomeranian need?
Despite their small size, they are quite energetic. They need daily short or medium-length walks (20-30 minutes) and time for play at home or in a safe area. Mental stimulation is also important.

Do Pomeranians bark a lot?
Yes, they have a tendency to bark. It’s part of their watchdog instinct. Early training and socialisation can help control this trait, but it’s usually impossible to completely stop them from barking.

Are Pomeranians hypoallergenic?
No, Pomeranians are not a hypoallergenic breed. They shed and produce dander (dead skin flakes), which is the main allergen.

How long can a Pomeranian be left alone at home?
Pomeranians are very people-oriented and don’t handle being alone well. It’s not recommended to leave them alone for more than 4-6 hours. Extended loneliness can lead to separation anxiety and destructive behaviour.

What is the cost of a Pomeranian puppy?
The cost of a puppy depends on many factors: pedigree, conformity to the standard, the reputation of the breeder, and the region. Pet-class puppies are cheaper than show-class dogs. In the UK, prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, but a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder is likely to cost between £1,000 and £3,500.

What are the “puppy uglies”?
This is a period at around 4-8 months of age when a Pomeranian puppy intensely sheds its soft baby coat, and the coarser adult coat begins to grow in its place. During this time, the dog may look scruffy and “scantily-haired,” and the coat may have different lengths and textures. This is a completely normal stage of development.