The Pomeranian – A Tiny, Peppery Puff
Pomeranians – also called Poms -- are very small, fluffy dogs that sometimes look more like stuffed animals than actual pets. Their faces can look round and sweet like teddy bears, or sharp and pointed like a fox.
Their heads are wedge-shaped, with pointed ears that stand up alertly. Pomeranians have dark, almond shaped eyes that hold a bright, intelligent expression. The nose of the Pomeranian can be either dark in color, or may match the shade of its coat. The most distinctive thing about the Pomeranian is its feathered fan tail that curves gently over its back. Its fur is shaped in a plentiful ruff around its chest and neck. The coat itself is a double coat that is typically solid in color and puffs straight out. The usual colors are orange, cream or white, red, blue, brown, and black – though any solid color is “permissible”. There are some color combinations that can occur, such as black and tan, wolf shades, white with colored markings (known as parti-colored), and orange and sable.
Poms are very lively dogs. Eager to learn and very intelligent, they are also very loyal. However, they can be very willful and temperamental, so they should be carefully trained. If the dog will be introduced to a family that has other dogs, it should be done very carefully. Though the situation will typically work out well, Pomeranians tend to think of themselves as quite a bit larger than they really are, and will not think twice about attacking a dog – even if it is much larger than they are. Pomeranians have a sharp bark, and will typically ceaselessly bark at strangers with whom they are generally quite reserved. You will need to work with the dog to limit its barking. If a Pomeranian is to be introduced to a family with children, it is better if the children are older and know how to behave around dogs. Pomeranians are considered to be very good pets for seniors.
Pomeranians first came about in the Prussian region of Pomerania, bred from Spitz dog breeds which were herders from northern Europe. Pomeranians have had many famous fans, including Mozart and Marie Antoinette. In fact, Queen Victoria had her own breeding kennel, and successfully showed her dogs. It was because of Queen Victoria that the Pomeranian was bred for a smaller size, shrinking from its original thirty pounds to a much more modest four to five pounds.
The average lifespan of the Pomeranian is about fifteen years. They are at risk for dislocated kneecap (patella), slipped stifle, skin and heart disorders, and eye infections. Pomeranians are also prone to early tooth loss, hair loss, and can have difficult deliveries.
