Pomeranian

Toy Dog Breeds

The Pomeranian is named after the province of Pomerania (present day Germany and Poland). They are descended from 30 pound sheep herder dogs. Popular today for its diminutive size and fluff, the Pomeranian has been bred to approximately a sixth of the size of its ancestors. It is the smallest member of the Spitz family of dogs (characterized by hardy sled hounds).

Appearance
Like most Spitz-family dogs, the Pomeranian has a double coat. It has a soft, thick undercoat and a similarly thick, straight outer coat: perfect insulation for cold climates. This coat can be solid or two-tone, and common coloration include cream, orange, sable, black, brown and blue, or white with colored markings. The should be brushed frequently. They stand 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and generally weigh between 3 to 7 pounds. They have a cobby, rounded body and a plumed tail which rests squarely on the back.

Personality
Bouncy, playful and curious, the Pomeranian is a pleasure to watch. It is a friendly, intelligent dog that loves to please. The breed may also be a bit too bold and attack considerably larger dogs. Pomeranians need a lot of attention and require firm discipline. They may do well with older, more considerate, children.

History
Pomeranians draw their ancestry from the Spitz dogs of Lapland and Iceland. They became widely popular in 1888 when Queen Victoria fell in love with a Pomeranian in Florence, Italy, and brought the specimen back to England. Pomeranians were then bred smaller and more colorful with an emphasis to coat that has led to its popular “puffball” appearance.

Care
An active but small breed, the Pomeranian can meet most of its exercise needs through indoor play or short walks. The breed is curious and requires adequate mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Despite its warm coat, the Pomeranian is not suited for outdoor living and is very much a lap dog. Its double coat needs brushing about twice a week and more frequently when shedding.

Health
The Pomeranian suffers from the same weakness of the knees, or patellar luxation, as most toy breeds. Other health concerns for the breed include hypoglycemia, progressive retinal atrophy, and entropion. Suggested tests to ensure a healthy dog are for knees, eyes, and cardiac. The expected lifespan of a Pomeranian is between 12 to 16 years.

Conditions Summary

• Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, can lead to lack of energy or may be a symptom of a more serious condition.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: a degeneration of the canine retina which can lead to blindness.
• Entropion: the lower eyelid rolls inward, causing pain and possible infections and permanent damage.

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References
The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Pomeranians: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Pomeranian Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog.

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Pomeranian." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds.

"American Kennel Club - Pomeranian." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.

"Pomeranians - Choosing a Pomeranian - Dog Breeds." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information.

"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Puppy Hypoglycemia: Low Blood Sugar." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Progressive Retinal Atrophy/Degeneration in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Entropion - Inward Folding Eyelids in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

 

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