Coat:
The Pomeranian has a profuse and stand-off double coat with a tail that is feathered and fans over the back; there is a distinctive ruff around the neck and chest.
Colors:
The most common colors are red, orange, white, cream, sable, blue, brown and black.
Personality:
A foxy ball of fluff, the Pomeranian is alert, active, intelligent, wary and full of himself. He wants to be not just part of the family but part of all activities. He isn't clingy like some toy breeds, but his need to be included can develop into a kind of bossiness or spoiled nature. This is easily tempered with obedience training. He loves to play and learn tricks.
At home:
Their compact size makes them great for apartment living, but Poms are barkers and may disturb neighbors living in close quarters - they love to hear their own voice! Like most dogs with spitz ancestry, they love the outdoors and even enjoy a good romp in the snow. Poms do not like the heat and may become uncomfortably hot during the summer.
Recommended activities:
The Pomeranian makes an eye-catching show dog, but he is also a talented performer of tricks and excels in agility and obedience. Play is another favorite activity for the Pom.
Exercise:
The active, alert Pomeranian thrives on regular exercise. He loves to get out and see the world and should be taken on several walks daily. He enjoys being the center of attention and will happily accompany his family on errands and other outings.
Feeding:
The spunky Pomeranian can be a finicky eater. Feeding several smaller meals a day is a good idea as long at it's a high-quality, age-appropriate dog food. Don't succumb to feeding table scraps just so that he will eat. Be sure to monitor his weight, as just a few extra treats a day can expand his waistline.
Training:
The Pomeranian is a fun dog to train because he is an eager learner. Working in a positive, motivational manner, the Pom will soon master basic obedience and will be delighted to learn more advanced things like agility. It is important to obedience train a Pomeranian because he needs to know who's in charge. Housetraining may take a little longer than with some other breeds.
Compatibility:
While the erratic behavior of very young children can be upsetting to sensitive Poms, they can get along well with older children. Their ease of care, beauty and diminutive size make them suitable companions to the elderly. They are usually sociable with other dogs and pets.
Health:
The average life span of the Pomeranian is 13 to 15 years. Common health problems of the breed include collapsed trachea, dental problems, hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation and severe hair loss syndrome (SHLS).
Grooming blurb:
The Pom's abundant coat needs regular attention to keep it looking its best. He is a constant shedder with a cottony undercoat, so brushing several times a week is recommended.
Disclaimer:
This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.
