Pomeranian dogs were originally found and developed in the Prussian Region of Pomerania and the ancestors of those we see today use to weigh up to 30 pounds. It is Queen Victoria who is credited with making this breed popular in the late 1800's and also for breeding down the size. Today, Poms are popular as both show dogs and pets.
The Pomeranian is a member of the AKC Toy Group where it was shown in the miscellaneous classification in 1892, gaining it's regular classification in 1900. One of the tiniest of the Toy dogs, the Pomeranian weights between 3 and 7 pounds and stand 7 to 12 inches tall. This breed can live to be 15 years of age.
The Pomeranian is a fluffy dog with pointed ears and a wedge shaped head. The nose is either the color of the coat or dark, eyes are almond shaped and dark in color with a bright sparkle and their teeth meet in a scissors bite. They have a feathered tail that curls up and forward on their back. The neck and chest area on the Pom has an abundant ruff of fur. Most Pomeranians have a solid coat, but parti colored is allowed in the breed. The colors can be brown, blue, cream, white, red, orange or black.
Intelligent and eager to please their owners, Pomeranian dogs are very loyal to their families. However, they can also be very willful, bold and on occasions temperamental. Pomeranians learn tricks quickly but need to be trained with a kind but firm hand or they will not listen to you.
The Pomeranian is a wonderful companion as well as great for showing because of their docile temper and affectionate nature. This breed is one of the most independent of the Toy breeds and has an alert and curious personality. They are active indoors but don't require a yard, just take them for a walk once a day and they will be happy.
Like many other pure bred dogs, Poms can be prone to health problems and some may be prone to slipped stifle, dislocated patella (knee cap), heart and skin problems as well as eye infections. They are also prone to early tooth loss and problems with their gums so a good dental program including daily brushing and yearly vet visits is important to keep your Pom in the best of health.
Pomeranian dogs do need daily grooming of their fluffy double coat to avoid tangles and mats. The undercoat is like fluffy cotton and prone to mats - the outer coat is longer and more silky.
