Pomeranian

History

Originating in the Arctic ice of Iceland and Lapland, the presentday Pomeranian is much smaller than in the past. They earned their keep as a sled Dog but today, due to their size, are companions. Eventually these native Dogs ended up in an area of Germany known as Pommerania and this is considered their place of origin. It was in England that the breed was refined and developed.

Description

Compact with a well-knit frame. Exhibiting great intelligence in expression, activity and buoyancy in deportment.

Grooming and Physical Needs

  • Grooming Needs: They are proud little Dogs and love to be clean and beautiful. If you are not prepared to groom at least once a week, do not get a Pomeranian. Having a thick undercoat and coarse top coat, regular grooming is a must.
  • Coat Type: Two coats, thick undercoat and top coarse top coat.
  • Moulting: Striping of the coat twice a year with change of seasons i.e. Winter and Summer.
  • Exercise Needs: Minimal, although they do enjoy walks, but be prepared to carry them if they start to struggle with distance.
  • Average Life Span: 13 – 15 years.

Behaviour

  • Family: Not suitable for small children due to their size and structure. Most suitable with adults and great companions for the elderly. Need to be socialised to keep them friendly.
  • Temperament: Outgoing, friendly and inquisitive. Although can become over protective of owner and surrounds.
  • Trainability: Very trainable with persistence. Very intelligent and willing to please, but if not given any training, can be very naughty.
  • Sociability (Other Pets): Tend to be very sociable with Dogs of the same size. A little weary and defensive with larger Dogs and animals. Owners need to be weary of socialising with larger animals, in case the larger animal thinks it is a fluffy toy.
  • Barking: Can be quite vocal and noisy. Training is required to subdue this trait.

Talents

Develop little habits on their own, be it chasing balls or pinching washing. Extremely loyal and
great guard Dogs, although their size does not necessary deter intruders.

Notes

Prone to dental disease, patella issues, breathing issues with narrow tracheas. Breeders are
addressing these problems in their breeding programs.