Pomeranians: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly

Origin

Pomeranians are a toy breed originating in the Pomerania region of Germany and Poland. They were originally larger, eventually bred down to their current, more domesticated size as the smallest of all Spitz-type dogs.

Pomeranians are popular family pets due to their affectionate nature. They're quite intelligent and, as such, are easy to train.

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.

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Health issues: Pomeranians are prone to several common health conditions for small dogs, including eye problems, patellar luxation, and collapsing tracheas.

5. 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.