Pomeranians: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
By: Dylan M. AustinPomeranians are great companions for those looking for a small dog with a big personality. Figo explores the temperament, origin, and health needs of this lively little breed.
Origin
Pomeranians are a toy breed originating in the Pomerania region of Germany and Poland, but here's the plot twist – these tiny pups weren't always pocket-sized! They actually started out as robust working dogs weighing up to 30 pounds, used for herding sheep and protecting livestock in the cold northern regions. Think of them as the glow-up story of the dog world: these fluffy little aristocrats are actually descended from powerful Arctic sled dogs, sharing ancestry with breeds like the Samoyed and Norwegian Elkhound.
Queen Victoria fell hard for these cuties in the 1800s and played a huge role in breeding them down to their current size – basically, she made them the original "travel-size" version! Fun fact: the Poms we know today are about a quarter of their ancestors' size, making them the smallest of all Spitz-type dogs.
Despite their dramatic downsizing, they definitely kept their big-dog personality and intelligence. These tiny tots still think they're running the show (and let's be honest, they usually are), combining their working-dog smarts with a distinctly royal attitude that makes them both fantastic family companions and surprisingly effective watchdogs – just in a much more apartment-friendly package!
Appearance
Pomeranians, oh where do we start with these fluffy bundles of charisma? Picture this: a tiny, vibrant plushie with a fox-like face and bright, curious eyes.
Their coat? It's like the fluffiest cloud you've ever seen, coming in a whole range of colors. From classic oranges and reds to the more unique blues and merles, there's a Pom for every palette. And let's not forget that signature poof of fur that makes them look like little lions, especially when they puff up their chest with that unmistakable Pom pride.
But it's not just about the fluff. These little dynamos are compact and sturdy, with a plume of a tail that arches over their back. They move with a bounce in their step, a testament to their spirited and lively nature.
Despite their small size, Pomeranians carry themselves with a big-dog attitude. They're the life of the party, packed into a petite, portable package. Whether they're prancing around your living room or turning heads on a walk, Poms have a way of making sure all eyes are on them.
In a nutshell, Pomeranians are the perfect blend of glamour and spunk, wrapped up in a coat that's to die for. They're not just dogs, they're complex companions ready to charm their way into your life.
Similar breeds
If you're looking for other dogs with similar traits to Pomeranians, consider the Papillon, Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, or Bichon Frise.
Temperament
Pomeranians are known for their loyal, lively, and intelligent nature. They are affectionate dogs that make great family pets. However, they can be highly alert and may bark at passersby if not properly trained.
Pomeranians are great indoor dogs and love being around their owners. However, they do love to explore and run around outside. You might even catch them peeking through curtains and looking out your windows. Just keep the temperature in mind when playing or walking in particularly cold weather.
Poms are often considered lap dogs but are thrilled to play hide-and-seek, fetch, and go on walks with their families.
Are Pomeranians hypoallergenic?
Pomeranians are, unfortunately, not hypoallergenic dogs. This means that individuals suffering from dog allergies may experience some discomfort when interacting with this breed.
Their big, fluffy coats shed year-round, so it’s best to keep up with regular grooming to keep them healthy and your allergies in check.
Looking for an allergy-friendly dog? We've got you covered with our guide to hypoallergenic breeds.
Illness/health concerns
Pomeranians are typically healthy dogs, especially with the right care. However, they can be prone to some health issues. Common concerns include eye problems, patellar luxation, and collapsing tracheas.
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Regular veterinary checkups can also help catch these concerns early, making it easier to ensure that your Pomeranian stays healthy.
How big do Pomeranians get?
The average Pomeranian can be as tall as 11 inches, weighing between 3 and 7 pounds.
Adult dog size can be influenced by age, sex, and activity level, and it can be more challenging to predict for mixed breeds.
Life expectancy
The average life expectancy of a Pomeranian is on the long side, about 12 to 16 years. This is similar to other small dogs.
Regular veterinary visits and preventative care can help manage common health concerns and ensure that your Pomeranian lives a long and healthy life.
Expected lifetime cost
The lifetime cost of a Pomeranian can vary, but you can expect to spend around $18,000 throughout your dog's life. On average, that’s about $1,200 per year.
This cost can vary depending on food, routine vet visits, preventative medications, grooming, and other essential pet care items.
Estimated cost to insure
Pet insurance can help you manage unexpected medical expenses. The cost of insuring a Pomeranian can vary based on age, health, and location. You can expect to pay around $20-$40 per month for coverage.
The good, the bad, the ugly
Are you considering getting a Pomeranian? Here are some traits and health factors to keep in mind:
Shedding: A distinctive feature of Pomeranians is their big, fluffy fur and tails. They require regular brushing to keep their thick double coats healthy and shiny. They experience moderate shedding year-round, with more excessive shedding in the changing spring and fall seasons.
Eye problems: Pomeranians can experience problems in the general eye area, including cataracts, entropion, and distichiasis. Issues include dry eye, tear duct infections, inflammation, and watery eyes due to irregular hair growth. Even when these are not significant issues, you may find yourself frequently wiping your pom’s eyes.
Patellar luxation: This is a common orthopedic condition in Pomeranians, where the kneecap slides out of place. Symptoms can include limping and an abnormal gait. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and physical therapy.
Health issues: Pomeranians are prone to several common health conditions for small dogs, including eye problems, patellar luxation, and collapsing tracheas.
Tracheal collapse: This is a common respiratory problem in Pomeranians, caused by a weakening of the cartilage rings that support the trachea. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes to manage the condition.
Pomeranians make for wonderful companions, but like all breeds, each dog has its own traits and temperament to be aware of. A Pomeranian can make a great pet with the right training and care.
So you want a Pomeranian...
Before bringing one of these energetic toy dogs home, consider their unique needs and any characteristics that may present themselves when raising and training a Pomeranian.
If you're looking for a loyal, intelligent, and fun-loving dog, a Pomeranian might be the right breed for you and your family.
