Pomeranian

Breed Characteristics

Good watchdog. Well-behaved in the house. Pomeranians are one of the most independent in the toy breeds. Some can become picky eaters. Usually barky. Has a low tolerance to heat. A good breed for the first-time dog owner.

Is the Pomeranian allowed as a pet in a Singapore HDB flat?

Yes

Origin

Germany (Pomerania), 1800s. The original Pomeranians were much larger, weighing up to 14kgs, and worked as sheepherders. The Kennel Club in England was the first to recognise the Pomeranian as a breed (1870). In 1888 Queen Victoria began breeding and showing these dogs. It was she who started breeding them down in size, making the breed very well liked in England. The AKC recognised the Pomeranian in 1888.

Original Purpose

Lapdogs; companions.

Behaviour and Temperament

Proud, loyal, curious, bold, alert, happy, extroverted.

What are some Physical Features of the Pomeranian?

15 to 18 cm; 2 to 3 kg; the Pomeranian is the smallest of the spitz breeds, miniaturised from larger cousins. They have tiny feet, even for their small size. The earliest Pomeranians were all white. Today all colours and patterns are allowed, including chocolate and white.

Coat Type and Recommended Grooming

Heavy, dense, harsh, double, profuse. High maintenance required; daily grooming when shedding; twice a week the rest of the year; some trimming. Professional grooming is recommended. Heavy shedding of the undercoat twice a year. Regular dental check up is highly recommended.

Life Expectancy of the Pomeranian

The life expectancy of the Pomeranian is between 12 and 15 years.

Have a Pomeranian?

Health Concerns

Patellar luxation, PDA, heart problems, tooth decay.

Exercise Needs

Low; play usually takes care of most of the Pomeranian’s exercise needs, however daily walks are recommended to fulfil their primal instinct.

Housing

Adaptable to any living situation, but the Pomeranian can be noisy. Very active indoors and will do fine without a yard.

Sociability

Okay with older well-disciplined children but are not suited for rough play. Reserved and wary of strangers; some individuals may be snappish. Unless properly introduced, Pomeranians are often suspicious of other pets and may display aggressive behaviour.

Trainability

Variable—low to high; responds well to consistent training. Pomeranians need to be taught that it may bark a couple of times when the doorbell rings, but then to keep quiet.

Recommended Activities

Agility, flyball, obedience.