About Pomeranians

 

 

Breed Group:   Toy     

Pomeranian Size, Porportion, Substance: 

The average weight of the Pomeranian is from 3 to 7 pounds, with the ideal weight for the show specimen being 4 to 6 pounds. Any dog over or under the limits is objectionable. However, overall quality is to be favored over size.

The distance from the point of shoulder to the point of buttocks is slightly shorter than from the highest point of the withers to the ground. the distance from the brisket to the ground is half the height at the withers. He is medium-boned, and the length of his legs is in proportion to a well-balanced frame. When examined, he feels sturdy.

Pomeranian Height: 

8-11 inches
 

Pomeranian Growth: 

Since it is such a small dog obviously the Pomeranian has small size litter. The weight of the puppies varies from eighty five to 140 grams, or even smaller in some cases. Newborn Pomeranians, especially those that are born really small, require of special attention from the breeder during their first weeks of life to guarantee an adequate growth.

The rhythm of growth in these dogs varies a lot. In general though this dog matures early, reaching its maximum height when it is around seven months old. The color of its coat can vary considerably and might change once it gets its adult coat.

The coat needs about three or four years to define itself, however at the age of one year it should already have its adult coat. When a puppy is around two months its coat should be long and hairy; at three months of age it will loose its coat and might look a little hairless; at five months, the puppy will look like it has short hair after it sheds; at ten months of age you should be able to appreciate its luscious double coat. Make sure to look pick one is healthy and has an intelligent personality and is extroverted.

The owner will need to spend more time on the dog's coat when it is an adolescent so as to facilitate the changing of coat.

Pomeranian Color(s):

All colors, patterns, and variations there-of are allowed and must be judged on an equal basis. Patterns:

Black and Tan - tan or rust sharply defined, and appearing above each eye and on muzzle, throat, and forechest, on all legs and feet and below the tail. The richer the tan the more desirable;

Brindle - the base color is gold, red, or orange-brindled with strong black cross stripes;

Parti-color - is white with any other color distributed in patches with a white blaze preferred on the head.

Classifications: The Open Classes at specialty shows may be divided by color as follows: Open Red, Orange, Cream, and Sable; Open Black, Brown, and Blue; Open Any Other Color, Pattern, or Variation.

Pomeranian Coat: 

The Pomeranians long double coat requires brushing at least once weekly. It is important to lift and part the top coat and brush the cottony undercoat as well. This will reduce shedding. Frequent brushing can damage the coat.

Pomeranian Overview: 

The Pomeranian is lively and eager to learn. They get along well with other household pets if given a slow and proper introduction. They make wonderful companions for families with older, well-behaved children and the elderly.

The Pomeranian pup is like no other. The Pomeranian is a compact, active toy breed. They are intelligent, extremely loyal to their family, and loving. They are eager to please, gentle, and affectionate.

They also exhibit an inquisitive expression and curiosity.h said, not to mention itIn addition to grooming it is important for Pomeranians to receive excellent dental care. They are prone to tooth loss; so regular cleaning is a must. Dry food is recommended to aid in keeping teeth and gums healthy.

Pomeranian Character: 

The Pomeranian is a compact, active toy breed. They are intelligent, extremely loyal to their family, and loving. They are eager to please, gentle, and affectionate.

They also exhibit an inquisitive expression and curiosity.h said, not to mention itIn addition to grooming it is important for Pomeranians to receive excellent dental care.

They are prone to tooth loss; so regular cleaning is a must. Dry food is recommended to aid in keeping teeth and gums healthy.

Pomeranian Temperament: 

The Pomeranian is confident, commanding, and outgoing. Due to the Pomeranians small stature they are not recommended for homes with small children as they may become temperamental. They make excellent guard dogs and will sound a bark when they sense danger.ace and easily tangles.

Pomeranian Care: 

In addition to grooming it is important for Pomeranians to receive excellent dental care. They are prone to tooth loss; so regular cleaning is a must. Dry food is recommended to aid in keeping teeth and gums healthy.

Pomeranian Training: 

Pomeranians respond best to firm commands and are quick to learn. They are easily trained in obedience. Their barking must be controlled or they will do so incessantly.

They may be difficult in housebreaking, but with consistency and praise do very well either going outside or in a litter box.

Pomeranian Activity: 

The Pomeranian requires short walks and play time with other pets and family. They have the capability to learn tricks if done with patience and time. They may become bored if they are not given enough to do.

They are excellent for apartment living and homes with small yards.

Pomeranian Ownership: 

If you are looking for Pomeranian puppies for sale from reputable Pomeranian breeders or to adopt a Pomeranian from a Pomeranian rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different.

Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Pomeranian puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Pomeranian puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets

Pomeranian Country of Origin:   

Germany
Pomeranian History:

Pomeranians are known to have existed around the eighteenth century in Germany. They resemble the much larger sled-pulling Spitz type dogs from the Arctic Circle, which they are said to have descended from.

The Pomeranian was first introduced to Britain in the 19th century weighting around 30 lbs. After several appeals from different Pomeranian clubs, the breed Standard was reduced to 7lbs. It is said that Queen Victoria was much taken with the breed and had a number of the larger variety in her kennels.

-Most everyone is familiar with that little ball of fluff, with the foxy face, a personality that is infectious and vibrant, and a coat so full and luxuriant it is like that ball of fluff.  There are not very many who are aware of the fact that this breed of dog has its origins in the Arctic ice of Iceland and Lapland. 

It claimed a genetic bond to the Alaskan Malamute, the Samoyed and the Siberian Husky, they were "cousins", within the Spitz family of canines.ntive   Of course, the Pomeranian then was a great deal larger than the dog we know today, averaging about thirty pounds.  This dog earned its keep by being a sled dog. 

As explorers came in contact with the native people, they would bring back the native dogs to their homes.  Eventually, these native dogs ended up in an area of Germany known as Pommerania.mely careful search to avoid all t 2@  In Germany these dogs were used to herd livestock.
    

It is said that among the first to officially import the Pomeranian breed of dog to England was Queen Charlotte, the wife of George III. It must be stated here that at this time the Pomeranian was still a large-type dog. It seems that on the continent of Europe, the wealthy people were looking for small, companion dogs.  The Pom  was a lovely dog, bright, intelligent, and eager to please, but it was so large. 

This is when the down sizing of the breed started.  When Queen Victoria went to Italy, she returned home with the Pomeranian we are more familiar with.  The Pom became very popular in England, with the down sizing of the breed continuing.

     In 1870, the Pomeranian was given recognition in Great Britain, by The Kennel Club.fragile a toy breed is. You can seriou It was said that the dog's submitted to the conformation ring from the royal kennel, had to be put into a separate judging class.frequently likes to sleep.

And it was said that the dog's submitted to the conformation ring from the royal kennel, had to be put into a separate judging class.  After all, who would judge that the royal family's dogs were not the best there.

     The first Pomeranians that were exported from England to the U.S., were undoubtedly the larger variety.
     In 1900, the American Kennel Club gave the breed recognition, and the Pomeranian Club of America was also formed at this time. The P.C.A. was given membership status in the A.K.C. in 1909.

     Today, the typical Pomeranian weighs between three and seven pounds.  In the show ring, you will find that most Poms weigh in between four and six pounds. 
There are Poms who are even smaller, referred to as Tiny, or Teacup, size.  Most professional breeders will not purposely breed for this size, due to the severe medical problems that the dog incurs, including shortened life span.

 

ABOUT POMERANIANS BODY:

Pomeranian Head:

The head is in balance with the body.

The muzzle is rather short, straight, fine, free of lippiness and never snipey. His expression is alert and may be referred to as fox-like.

The skull is closed. The top of the skull is slightly rounded, but not domed. When viewed from the front and side, one sees small ears which are mounted high and carried erect. To form a wedge, visualize a line from the tip of the nose ascending through the center of the eyes and the tip of the ears.

The eyes are dark, bright, medium in size and almond-shaped. They are set well into the skull on either side of a well-pronounced stop. The pigmentation is black on the nose and eye rims except self-colored in brown, beaver, and blue dogs.

The teeth meet in a scissors bite. One tooth out of alignment is acceptable.

Major Faults: Round, domed skull; under-shot mouth; overshot mouth.

 

Pomeranian Neck, Topline, Body :

The neck is short with its base set well into the shoulders to allow the head to be carried high. The back is short with a level topline.

The body is compact and well-ribbed with brisket reaching the elbow. The plumed tail is one of the characteristics of the breed, and lies flat and straight on the back.

Pomeranian Forequarters:

The Pomeranian has sufficient layback of shoulders to carry the neck and head proud and high. The shoulders and legs are moderately muscled.

The length of the shoulder blade and upper arm are equal. The forelegs are straight and parallel to each other. Height from elbows to withers approximately equals height from ground to elbow.

The pasterns are straight and strong. The feet are well-arched, compact, and turn neither in nor out. He stands well up on his toes. Dewclaws may be removed. Major Faults: Down in pasternsat:

Pomeranian Hindquarters :

The angulation of the hindquarters balances that of the forequarters. The buttocks are well behind the set of the tail. The thighs are moderately muscled with stifles that are moderately bent and clearly defined.

The hocks are perpendicular to the ground and the legs are straight and parallel to each other.

The feet are well-arched, compact, and turn neither in nor out. He stands well up on his toes.

Dewclaws, if any on the hind legs may be removed. Major Faults: Cowhocks or lack of soundness in hind legs or stifles.

 

Pomeranian Gait :

The Pomeranian's gait is smooth, free, balanced and vigorous. He has good reach in his forequarters and strong drive with his hindquarters. Each rear leg moves in line with the foreleg on the same side.

To achieve balance, his legs converge slightly inward toward a center line beneath his body. The rear and front legs are thrown neither in nor out. The topline remains level, and his overall balance and outline are maintained.
 

How long will your dog live:

Typical lifespan of small dogs:

Smaller dogs generally live longer than larger dogs, mostly because they don't suffer as many serious skeletal and cardiovascular diseases as larger dogs.

  • Their bones and joints don't need to support as much weight, so they don't break down as quickly.
  • come, fetch and more
  • Their heart doesn't need to pump blood through a huge body, so it doesn't wear out as quickly.
  •   
  • They have proportionately fewer growth hormones surging through their metabolic system. Studies suggest that growth hormones may shorten life
  •   
    the traits you want
  • Small dogs often live to 14 or 15 years of age.
  •   

Typical lifespan of giant or large bulky dogs:

In terms of lifespan, this is the saddest group of all: Irish Wolfhound: 6-8 yearsEnglish Mastiff, Great Dane, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Leonberger 6-10 yearsBernese Mountain Dog, Bloodhound, Bullmastiff 7-9 yearsDogue de Bordeaux, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, St. Bernard 8-10 yearsCane Corso, Great Pyrenees, Neapolitan Mastiff, Scottish Deerhound 8-11 years

Typical lifespan of medium to large dogs:

Most dogs in this size range live 10-13 years. But in some of these breeds, life-threatening health problems are so common that it can be difficult to find an individual that you can count on remaining healthy for a normal lifetime. Many individuals of these breeds live only 5-7 years.

 
For example:  
  • Many Golden Retrievers and Boxers die early from cancer.

     

  • Many Doberman Pinschers and Cavaliers die early from heart disease.

     

  • Many German Shepherds and other large breeds die early from hip and joint diseases.

 

  • Many Great Danes and Akitas die early from bloat.

     

  • Many Welsh Springer Spaniels die early from epilepsy.

     

  •   
  • Many Chinese Shar-Peis die early from amyloidosis.
  •   

 

Pomeranians: THE GOOD AND THE BAD

If you want a dog who:

      
  • Is vivacious and spunky, bright and attentive
  •   
  • Is delightfully alive and aware of everything going on around him and keenly alert to approaching strangers
  •   
  • Is usually fine with other pets
  •   

Then a Pomeranian is for you!

Some Major concerns would be:

Unstable temperaments: Pomeranians are a dime a dozen, and most of them are bred and offered for sale by people who do not have the slightest idea of how to breed good-tempered dogs.

Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants see LOTS of Pomeranians with neurotic behaviors, including biting, sharpness, extreme fearfulness, moodiness, and general nastiness.

Fragility: Too many people acquire a toy breed puppy without understanding how incredibly fragile a toy breed is. You can seriously injure or kill a Pomeranian puppy by stepping on him or by sitting on him when he's curled under a blanket or pillow, where he frequently likes to sleep.

And Pomeranians can seriously injure or kill THEMSELVES by leaping from your arms or off the back of your sofa. A larger dog can grab a Pomeranian and break his neck with one quick shake. Owning a toy breed means constant supervision and surveillance of what is going on around your tiny dog.

Pomeranians must always be kept indoors, in a safely fenced yard, or on-leash -- they are just too easy to injure when not under your complete control.

Suspiciousness: Standoffish by nature, Pomeranians need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise, their natural caution can become suspiciousness, which are difficult to live with and could even lead to defensive biting.

Mind of their own: Pomeranians are not a submissive or sissyish breed. They are very bright, but they have an independent mind of their own and can be manipulative. You must show them, through absolute consistency that you mean what you say.

Barking: Pomeranians are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. If you work all day and have close neighbors, Pomeranians are not a good choice for you.

For the same reason, Pomeranians should NEVER be left outside in your yard, unsupervised. To make matters worse, some Poms have high-pitched barks that can set your teeth on edge.

Grooming: To keep their thick coat free of mats, Pomeranians require regular brushing and combing, and occasional trimming of straggly hairs.

Heavy shedding: Pomeranians are one of the heaviest shedding of the toy breeds. You will find hair and fur all over your clothing, upholstery, carpeting, under your furniture, on your countertops -- even in your food. Frequent vacuuming will become a way of life. Make sure you are REALLY up for this.

Housebreaking: Toy breeds are almost always difficult to housebreak. It is so easy for them to sneak behind a chair or under a small table, and it takes only a few seconds for the deed to be done. The results can be hard to see.

When you do not see it, you do not correct it -- and so the bad habit becomes established. If you hope to housebreak a toy breed, consistent crate training is mandatory. Pomeranians should not be loosed in the house for many months, until their small internal organs become strong enough for reliable control.

Children: If you have small children, I do not recommend a Pomeranian. There are just too many Poms who won't tolerate any nonsense. And there are too many Poms who feel overwhelmed by the loud voices and quick movements that children can't help making -- and stress and shyness (even defensive biting) may be the result

             

If you dont want to deal with:

  • An extremely careful search to avoid all the nasty, neurotic Pomeranians
  •   
  • The fragility of toy breeds (see below)
  •   
  • Suspicious yappiness toward strangers when not socialized enough
  •   
  • Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
  •   
  • Barking
  •   
  • Regular brushing and combing
  •   
  • Heavy shedding
  •   
  • Housebreaking difficulties
  •  
 

Then a Pomeranian may not be for you!

 

How to Socialize your Pomeranian dog:

How does your dog react to strangers?

  • Some pomeranian dogs love everybody. My dog Buffy "never met a stranger", i.e. she treats everyone like a long-lost friend.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are fine with their own family (and perhaps a few family friends), but aren't so keen on strangers.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are fine with people of one sex -- but not the other sex.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are fine with adults -- but not with children. (A few dogs are the opposite -- they're fond of kids, but wary of grown-ups.)
  • Some pomeranian dogs are suspicious of certain physical features. For example, a hat, or dark sunglasses, or a beard, or a uniform. A few dogs are so observant that they may notice a person's skin color.
  • Some pomeranian dogs dislike ALL strangers.
  • And some pomeranian dogs basically ignore people. They will glance at a person, then go back to sleep. Their motto is: "Live and let live."

How does your dog react to other dogs?

  • Some pomeranian dogs love virtually every other dog.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are good with other dogs they know well -- but not with strange dogs.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are good ONLY with other dogs of the opposite sex.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are tolerant with puppies -- but not with other adult dogs.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are fussy about the SIZE of the other dog. They may dislike large dogs. Or they may dislike small dogs.
  • Some pomeranian dogs are fussy about the BREED of the other dog. They may be fine with their own breed, but dislike other breeds. Or they may be fine with other breeds, but not with their own!
  • Some pomeranian dogs are aggressive or timid with virtually every other dog.
  • And some pomeranian dogs just ignore other dogs. Their motto is: "Live and let live."

Your dog's attitude toward people and other dogs comes from...

His breed :

In some breeds, the GENES for temperament traits such as friendliness, suspiciousness, aggression, etc. are so strong and so prevalent throughout the breed that it is highly likely that your dog will inherit them.

For example, MOST Golden Retrievers inherit genes for friendliness. MOST Komondors inherit genes for suspiciousness. MOST Pit Bull Terriers inherit genes for aggression toward other dogs.

His parents :

Whatever his breed, if your dog's parents had a particular attitude toward people and other dogs, your dog will inherit THEIR genes and will probably also mimic THEIR behavior. So if your dog's breed is usually friendly, but his particular parents were suspicious, he may end up suspicious. If his breed is usually suspicious, but his particular parents was friendly, he may end up friendly.

How long he was left with his mother and siblings

If removed before seven weeks old, a puppy will not learn essential canine social signals such as bite inhibition, which are taught by his mother and siblings during the first seven weeks of life.

On the other hand, if a puppy lives with his mother or siblings for too LONG (more than 12 weeks), his position in the "pecking order" may be so established that he will always be inclined to act dominant (if he was at the top) or submissive (if he was at the bottom) toward people or other dogs.

His early experiences:

Obviously, if your dog who was frightened by another person or dog early in his life, or if he acted inappropriately toward other people or dogs during his early life and wasn't corrected properly for this inappropriate behavior, you can expect him to be aggressive or fearful.

 
How well you socialize him :

Socializing means getting your pomeranian dog used to people, other dogs, and the big wide world in general.

Puppy socialization: has the most dramatic effect on how your pomeranian dog turns out. You must get your puppy out into the world between 7 weeks old and 6 months old.

Adolescent socialization: is also critical. Adolescence begins between 6 and 9 months old, and ends between 1 and 3 years old. Larger breeds have the longer adolescent periods. Just as in people, adolescence in dogs can be an awkward time of change and upheaval. A teenage dog's attitude toward strangers and other dogs may change from week to week, even from day to day.

Adult socialization: may not be able to change your dog's attitude toward people and other dogs, but it can control his behavior so that he doesn't ACT aggressive or afraid.

 

Vaccinations...Needed or Not?

Only a few years ago, it was considered mandatory to bring your dog to the vet every year for his shots.

Times have changed.
Listen to what this Doctor has to say about yearly vaccinations:

"Would you rebel if your doctor told you to have measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and hepatitis shots every year of your life until you died, instead of only a few doses as a child?"

People don't need yearly revaccinations. And veterinarians and immunological researchers now tell us: Neither do dogs and cats

The current veterinarian's bible says...

"A practice that was started many years ago that lacks scientific validity or verification is annual revaccinations.

Almost without exception there is no immunologic requirement for annual revaccination. Immunity to viruses persists for years or for the life of the animal."

"Only the immune response to TOXINS requires boosters (e.g. tetanus toxin booster, in humans, is recommended once every 7-10 years). NO toxin vaccines are currently used for dogs and cats."

Yes, that's what Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XI -- the veterinarians' bible -- says. It was written by Dr. Tom Phillips D.V.M. Ph.D. and Dr. Ronald Schultz Ph.D. (immunologist and Chairman of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine).


In plain English, that means...

The immune system has a "memory." The immune system contains memory cells. Once these memory cells have been shown what to do against a particular disease (by one puppy vaccination at 11-16 weeks old), they will produce antibodies against that disease whenever they encounter it -- for years and years, probably for life.

Annual reminders
are not needed.

In fact, annual reminders
are mostly useless
because...

The same article in Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XI goes on to say:

"Furthermore, revaccination fails to stimulate a secondary response as a result of interference by existing antibodies."


In plain English, that means...

Booster shots don't work when your dog's system ALREADY has antibodies from previous vaccinations. Those existing antibodies neutralize the booster shot.

So repeating vaccinations doesn't "boost" immunity at all. Re-vaccinating an already-immune dog offer no benefit, because the previous immunity inactivates the vaccine. Your dog can't get "more" immune.

So why are vets vaccinating every year?

 Dr. Phillips and Dr. Schultz end their article in Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XI with this bombshell -- the real reason why so many vets continue to insist that dogs require annual vaccinations:

"The practice of annual vaccination in our opinion should be considered of questionable efficacy unless it is used as a mechanism to provide an annual physical examination."

In other words, the vet gets dogs into his office by asserting that they need yearly shots. Vets charge $15 to $50 for vaccines that cost them less than two dollars apiece. Plus you pay $25 to $35 for the office visit. Vaccinations account for a major chunk of a veterinarian's income. It is in your vet's best financial interest that you bring your dog in every year.

Now don't get me wrong -- regular physical exams can be a good thing, especially for older dogs.

But vets must STOP using the pretext
that "yearly shots are necessary"
to lure us into their offices.

In fact, annual booster shots are harmful:
"Well, even if yearly shots aren't necessary, they don't do any harm, right?"

Listen to what one veterinarian has to say about the dangers of vaccines:

On the contrary.
Vaccines are NOT harmless.

"The first thing that must change is the myth that vaccines are harmless. Veterinarians and animal guardians have to come to realise that they are not protecting animals from disease by annual vaccinations, but in fact, are destroying the health and immune systems of these same animals they love and care for."

 

Another Doctor agrees:

"Routine vaccinations are probably the worst thing that we do for our animals. They cause all types of illnesses. Repeating vaccinations on a yearly basis undermines the whole energetic well-being of our animals. Veterinary immunologists tell us that vaccines need only be given once or twice in an animal's life. First, there is no need for annual vaccinations and, second, they definitely cause chronic disease."

 

This Doctor has this to say:

"We have been destroying the immune system. Over the years it has become increasingly clear that some vaccines are ineffectual or unnecessary, and some vaccines are dangerous, even causing symptoms of the disease they are supposed to prevent."

You might breathe a sigh of relief that your dog has "breezed through" a vaccination with no immediate reaction. In reality, you have no idea what is going inside him. The real problems may surface next month or next year.


Listen to what another Vet says about vaccines causing chronic disease:

"Vaccinosis is the reaction from common innoculations. Reactions might take months or years to show up. In our practice, we've seen hypothyroidism, ear infections, immune-system diseases, joint maladies, and behavioral prolems as reactions to over-vaccination."

This Doctor says:

"Vaccinations represent a major assault on the body's immune system. This insult causes irregularities and abnormalities in the immune system which then manifests as chronic diseases in animals. These chronic diseases range from life-threatening conditions such as auto-immune crises to conditions destroying the quality of life of an animal, as in chronic skin allergies. What we are now seeing are generations of over-vaccinated animals, and these current offspring are suffering the penalty of this medical abuse."


Another Vet observes:

"The most common problems I see that are directly related to vaccines on a day to day basis are ear or skin conditions, such as chronic discharges and itching. I also see behavior problems such as fearfulness or aggression. Often guardians will report that these begin shortly after vaccination, and are exacerbated with every vaccine. In a more general and frightening context, I see the overall health and longevity of animals deteriorating."

 

Let's let the AVMA Journal sum this up:

The AVMA Journal (#208, 1996) says: "There is no scientific data to support a recommendation for annual administration of vaccines. Furthermore, repeated administration of vaccines may be associated with a higher risk of anaphylaxis and autoimmune diseases."

In the same issue: "There is little scientific documentation that backs up label claims for annual administration of most vaccines. In the past, it was believed that annual vaccination would not hurt and would probably help most animals. However concerns about side effects have begun to change this attitude. The client is paying for something with no effect or with the potential for an adverse reaction."

Annual vaccination schedules have ALWAYS been based on the suggestions of the vaccine manufacturers –- NOT on independent research. Is it any surprise that they want annual vaccinations? They sell more vaccines!

Don't be intimidated by your vet:

A well-known vet warns you NOT to fall for the guilt trip pushed on you by many vets:

"Another trend of the past few years is coercion of guardians into procedures such as vaccination. This coercion may be blatant, such as refusal to provide services, even emergency care, unless the animal is 'current' on vaccines.

Sometimes even critically ill animals are vaccinated upon admission for treatment. More subtle means include induction of fear and/or guilt by asserting (as an authority figure) that companion animals are at risk if not vaccinated yearly, and that failure to comply is evidence of lack of caring.

Tactics such as this can create feelings of guilt in the guardian, leading to a fear-based decision to vaccinate an animal that is not at risk. This is unethical, if not outright malpractice, and refusal is an acceptable response."

The conclusion is clear:

YOU must take charge of your
dog's vaccination schedule.

What you need to know about vaccinations

 WHICH vaccinations your new puppy should get -- distemper? parvovirus? leptospirosis? coronavirus? kennel cough? lyme disease?

  • Which vaccinations he SHOULDN'T get
  • How OLD he should be for his first vaccinations
  • How OFTEN puppy vaccinations need to be repeated
  • How many shots your puppy needs before you can walk him outdoors (This answer may SURPRISE you!)
  • How to check your puppy's immunity after a vaccination -- to see if the vaccine "took"
  • Whether your dog should be vaccinated if he or she:
    • Has a health problem such as itchy skin or hypothyroidism?
    • Is taking steroids or antibiotics
    • Is going in for neutering or dental work
    • Is in heat
    • Is over 8 years old
  • How to check your dog's immunity -- is he really and truly protected against disease?
  • What you should do about vaccinations if you acquire an older dog whose vaccination history is unknown

 

Pomeranian Medical Conditions:

The Pomeranian breed is a very healthy dog, however, the buyer must be familiar with some of the most common ailments that can occur within any breeding program. these puppies' genes. The buyer needs to see at least one parent, hopefully, the dam (mother).  Sometimes the sire (the father) is not available due to a variety of reasons, however, check with the breeder about the pedigree of both parents.


     In general, a responsible breeder will not purposely breed for a “teacup” size Pom. These tiny dogs are prone to serious medical and disposition problems.can tell a lot about the individua Not all, but the majority of the tiny dogs can cost an owner a lot of money for medical treatment.  Not all, but the majority of the tiny dogs can cost an owner a lot of money for medical treatment.  If you are interested in showing in conformation, a teacup Pom is extremely difficult to finish.


     If you are considering the possibility of starting a breeding program, it is important that you realize that these dogs are not prolific.  An average litter size is one to three puppies. ones grab all the toys an $8  Another consideration is the cost of a stud fee, and veterinarian bills.  We do not recommend that dog breeding be attempted by anyone other than those with extensive knowledge, and a dedication to the improvement of the breed.
     Some other conditions that a new owner of a Pom should know about are:

        Luxating Patellas (Slipping Kneecaps)
 
        Luxating patellas is a common fault in Pomeranians.  This condition can either be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (trauma induced).  Be sure that both parents are certified "clear" of this condition, and that care is taken with the puppy to avoid damaging its knees.

Hypothyroidism
A simple blood test will determine the existence of the condition.ter of Queen Charlotte (who had The symptoms can include skin and coat problems, sudden onset of aggressive behavior, itching, lethargy, musky odor, and many more to keep it simple. The symptoms can include skin and coat problems, sudden onset of aggressive behavior, itching, lethargy, musky odor, and many more to keep it simple.
      Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitus sicca) :
        While normal dog eyes are lusterous - dogs with dry eye have eyes lacking in luster and appeare textured.This condition is caused by the lack of tear production.This can be due to lack of nerve stimulation of the tear glands, failure of the tear glands, or blockage of the ducts that carry the tears to the eyes.charges and itching. Full diagnosis can only be performed by a Veterinarian to determine the cause.  Treatment will be dependant upon the cause and severity of the condition.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is commonly referred to as low blood-sugar. Dogs that go into hypoglycemia suffer from weakness, they can collapse, and/or go into seizures.

ing in at around 5 pounds, it’s hard
        Some puppies are born with what is called, "open fontanels` The fontanel is the location on the skull where all of the skull plates join. It is the "soft spot .

 

 

How to have fun with your DOGGIE!!

you can:

Teach them to sing                                

 Play hide and seek with treats

Make your dog smile

dress your dog up                              

make them happy

play tag

make fun of them

Scare them

Make up a game with them

make voices for them

For their Birthday:

You Can:

  • Take them to the dog park 
  • Invite their friends over and dress them up Put party hats on him or her
  • Make a cake or cupcakes for him or her
  • Play with them all day
  • Do what they want to do
  • Sing happy birthday to them
  • Have a party
  • Help your dog dance
  • Give them new toys
  • Give them looooots of treats         

 

 

Male Vs: Females

MALE:                                                           

Male dogs are also called boys or dogs. Female dogs are called girls or (wait for it!) bitches. Now don't cringe! It's an accepted canine term for a female dog.

So which sex makes the better pet?

SPEAKING VERY GENERALLY...

  • Male pomeranian dogs tend to be "lovable slobs" and "good ol' boys."
  • Male pomeranian dogs tend to be more outgoing, more vigorously affectionate, more "in your face."
  • Male pomeranian dogs tend to be more stable and reliable in mood, less prone to emotional swings.
  • Male pomeranian dogs tend to be clumsy and silly and prone to acting like oversized kids.
  • Male pomeranian dogs mean well and are easy to love.


On the negative side:

  • Male pomeranian dogs are more apt to test their owners and engage in dominance struggles, especially during the hormonal adolescent months, which can last a long time -- from about six months old all the way up to two or three years old in larger breeds.
  • Male pomeranian dogs have obvious genitals, which can make for embarrassing moments if they become aroused or decide to lick themselves when Grandma is visiting. Some males are enthusiastic pomeranian humpers who will mount stuffed toys, other pomeranian dogs, sometimes people's legs.
  • Most pomeranian male dogs lift their leg to urinate -- a consideration if you have expensive shrubbery or lawn ornaments. Some males are territorial markers who spray urine on every vertical object (ranging from telephone poles to blades of grass) to mark it with their scent.

Females:                                                    

SPEAKING VERY GENERALLY...

  • Female pomeranian dogs tend to be more subtle than males. They're affectionate on their own terms. They'll request or demand petting, then reassert their independence by walking away when they've had enough.
  • Female pomeranian dogs tend to be quicker to learn and are not as easily distracted during training sessions.
  • Female pomeranian dogs are less likely to be openly defiant or to engage in blunt power struggles or dominance challenges -- yet they can be clever, passively resistant, and manipulative about getting their own way.
  • Female pomeranian dogs are prone to mood swings and emotional theatrics. They can be sweet one day (or one hour!) and grumpy the next.
  • Female pomeranian dogs are experts at The Dirty Look and The Sulk.

Other Male and Female Considerations:

  • Some pomeranian breeders extol the virtues of males without mentioning the negatives. Keep in mind that breeders prefer to keep females for their breeding program. They may push their male pomeranian pups because that's who they need to place.
  • When trying to choose, consider the other dogs in your household. Certain breeds should never be kept with another dog of the same sex.
  • Consider the other dogs in your neighborhood. If there's a resident bully who roams free, you'd be wise not to get the same sex, else your daily walks may become stressful. Similarly, if your next-door neighbor has an aggressive dog, perhaps you should get the opposite sex to avoid fence-fighting.

 

Training Pomeranians

Housebreaking your Pom:

2 keys to housebreaking-

  1. Confinement so your dog cannot go to the bathroom in the wrong places.

    Confinement means that until your dog is housebroken, he is never allowed to walk freely around the house.

           

    Confinement means every minute of every hour of every day -- unless you are sitting with your dog, playing with him, walking him, feeding him, grooming him, teaching him something, or otherwise interacting with him.

           

    Because if he is loose and you take your eyes off him for just a few moments, he can go to the bathroom on your floor -- and the bad habit is begun.

            Access to the RIGHT place

    This means you TAKE your dog outside -- or he lets himself outside through a doggy door. Or it means you provide him with newspapers or a litter box indoors. He must have SOMEWHERE to "go" -- on a regular, reliable basis.
     

     

  2. Constant or regular access to the right place to go to the bathroom.
  3.       

     Three ways to provide "confinement" and "bathroom access"

     

Confinement in a crate.
Take outside to bathroom.

 


Confinement in an exercise pen.
Constant access to newspapers
or a litterbox.

 


Confinement in a small room.
Constant access to an outside
yard via a doggy door.

     

     

 

What to teach your new Puppy:

   At 2-3 months old, your puppy should begin learning...

  • His daily routine. Where his food and water dishes are located. What times of day he will eat (typically morning, early afternoon, and evening). Where his bed is. What time he goes to bed. What time he gets up. Where he goes to the bathroom. Where his toys are kept. What routes he will be taken on for walks. And so on.
  • Correction words. What "No" means -- to stop what he's doing when you say "No!" or "Ah-ah!" or "Stop that."
  • Praise words. What "Good" means -- to wag his tail and look happy when you say "Good!" or "YAY!" (Puppies especially love the sound of "Yay!")
  • Crate training. To stay quietly in his crate at night when he goes to sleep - and during the day whenever we're not interacting with him.
  • Housebreaking. You should immediately introduce him to his bathroom spot, but a puppy of 2-3 months old is still an infant, so it will be several months before his internal organs are developed enough for reliability. Toy breeds and hound breeds are especially slow to housebreak, with many not being reliable until eight to ten months of age.
  • Acceptance of being handled. Teach him what a grooming table is, and introduce the grooming positions of "Sit" and "Stand" and "Open your mouth" while you handle him all over, brush his coat, brush his teeth, and clip his nails.
  • Food words. "Hungry," "Supper", "Breakfast", "Biscuit".
  • To take things gently from your hand. "Easy!" No grabbing.

Puppies love routines. They feel reassured and safe when they know where everything is and when they're on a predictable schedule. Routines reassure your puppy that, regardless of the unfamiliarity of his new world, everything is predictable. Routines reassure him that he knows what comes next, that his world is the same as it was yesterday, and that it will be the same tomorrow. Routines reassure him that YOU are dependable, that he can count on you to say and do the same things.

At 3-6 months old, your puppy should begin learning...

  • To sit on command.
  • To lie down on command - and to STAY lying down for up to 30 minutes.
  • To stop barking when you tell him to be quiet.
  • To interact well with strangers, other dogs, and other animals.
  • To walk politely on the leash.
  • To look directly at you when you say his name.
  • To come when called.
  • To "give" or drop whatever is in his mouth when you tell him to.
  • To play games (such as "Find it!" and "Bring it!") with his toys.
  • To wait inside the door or gate, even when it's wide open.
  • And more...

     At 6-10 months old, your puppy should begin learning...

  • To stay sitting while you walk away from him.
  • To look directly at your face when you need his full attention.
  • To walk very attentively by "heeling" close behind your left leg.
  • To retrieve his ball or toy when you throw it.
  • To do simple tricks: "Shake hands!" "Dance!" "Roll over!" "Catch!"
  • To recognize the individual names of family members - and to search for someone who is hiding. (Also known as Hide 'n Seek!)
  • To run an obstacle course for dogs - "Jump!" "Tunnel!" "Walk it!" "Climb it!"
  • Whatever else he's ready for!

 

 

The Best Food For Your Dog:

Fresh food. Fresh chicken and turkey and beef. Fresh raw vegetables and fruits. Fresh brown rice and oatmeal. Fresh yogurt, eggs, and cottage cheese.

This is not "people food." Calling real food "people food" makes it sound as though people are the only living creatures who are entitled to eat fresh foods.

 
Virtually all living creatures thrive on real, fresh food.

 

 
Listen to what this Vet
has to say about fresh food for your dog:
"You can boost your pet's health profoundly by making one simple decision. All you have to do is change his diet from commercial-brand fare to something you may never have imagined giving him: real food. The fresh food you buy at the market for yourself is the food you should give your pet, too." Generations of dogs lived to ripe old ages on fresh foods... before the pet food corporations came along.
 

Pet food corporations -- "Just say no"Commercial dog food has only been around since the 1930s when cereal companies were trying to find something to do with their rejected grain -- their wheat and rice and corn that failed USDA inspection because of mold, rancidity, and other contaminants.
They discovered that the meat industry faced the same dilemma. Meat that couldn't pass USDA inspection because it had spoiled or because the livestock was diseased.

 The idea of mixing the rejects together and calling it "pet food" was born. Marketing firms were hired to plant this lamentable term in the public's mind, but their product was not then -- nor is it now -- "pet food." It's simply a worse, processed artificial diet created for the benefit of the grain and meat industries and the pet food corporations.

REAL "pet food" was, is, and always will be fresh foods grown in the ground and produced by our farms. That's what your dog should eat. 

Listen to what  another vet. has to say about artificial diets for your dog:  
"The whole concept of Insta-Meal for humans is repulsive. Most people would soon be climbing the walls in frustration, desperate for a salad or some fruit -- anything whole and fresh, or just different. Perhaps the thought of eating kibbles for the rest of your own life helps make the point that pets forced to do so are being shortchanged. All of us -- humans and animals -- should have fresh, wholesome, unprocessed food in our daily diet."
 

Let's look at those ingredients:THE GRAIN:
Virtually all artificial diets are heavily based on grains and cereals. But dogs are not cows. A dog has the large stomach and short straight digestive tract required to digest meat. A cow has several small stomachs and the long winding digestive tract required to digest fibrous grain. The two are not interchangeable!


Even worse, many dogs are allergic to corn and soybean and wheat. They develop chronic digestive problems (loose stools, spitting up, gassiness) or itchy skin. You'll see them licking their feet or rubbing their face against the carpet. You might never think to associate these problems with the grain in your dog's diet, but that is often the case.

 THE MEAT
Contrary to what they show you on the TV commercials, don't even think about sirloin. Your dog gets: y
  • The "4D" meat that didn't make the cut for the human market, which means it came from livestock that was diseased, disabled, dying, or already dead when it arrved at the slaughterhouse.
  •   
  • The "by-products" -- a catch-all term used by the pet food industry to mean anything stripped off the carcass other than meat, i.e. beaks, feet, head, lungs, blood, and other unmentionables.
  •   
  • To make matters worse, the meat and byproducts are laced with the hormones fed to the livestock to make them grow faster, and the antibiotics fed to the livestock to prevent massive outbreaks of disease in their crowded living conditions. These hormones and antibiotics trickle through to your dog.
  •  
 

THE GREASY FAT:
Many dogs gobble up their kibble, yes -- because it's sprayed with greasy fat to make it smell yummy. But we don't allow our children to eat only junk food because they love the smell or taste, do we? The relish with which a dog eats doesn't indicate whether something is "good" for him.

 

THE CHEMICAL PRESERVATIVES
Preservatives are always used in artificial diets so the bags and cans last longer. That's convenient for the manufacturer, yes, who can leave it sitting in his warehouse for a long time. Convenient for the retailer who can leave it sitting on his shelf for a long time. Convenient for the owner who can dish it out for a long time.

 

But what is this stuff
that keeps ingredients
from spoiling?

 

The most common pet food preservatives are:

 
  • Ethoxyquin -- which is actually manufactured by the giant chemical corporation Monsanto as a rubber preservative. The containers are marked POISON. The Department of Agriculture lists it as a pesticide. OSHA lists it as a hazardous chemical.
  •   
  • BHA and BHT -- both of which cause liver and kidney dysfunction, and bladder and stomach cancer.


    Most pet foods list these preservatives right on the bag or can, but even when it doesn't say so, it's usually in there, anyway.

       

    How can this be? Because a legal loophole allows manufacturers to only list what THEY themselves put into the bag. If they buy some of their ingredients from a supplier who has already added the chemical to those ingredients...

       

    The pet food company doesn't have to disclose that on the bag.

       

    Isn't that nice?

  •  
 

How commercial pet foods affect your dog's health:

 

Every day, unhappy dogs parade through veterinary offices. They suffer from:

 
  • itching
  •   
  • hot spots
  •   
  • dandruff
  •   
  • excessive shedding
  •   
  • foot-licking
  •   
  • face-rubbing
  •   
  • loose stools
  •   
  • gassiness
  •  
 


What are these dogs eating?

 

Artificial diets, virtually every one of them.
Listen to what the Vet has to say about the connection between health problems and artificial diets:

 "Since I graduated from veterinary school in 1965, I've noticed a general deterioration in pet health. We now see very young animals with diseases that we used to see only in older animals. Without the perspective of several decades, vets just coming out of veterinary school think these degenerative conditions in younger animals are "normal." They do not realize what has happened over the passage of time. I believe, along with poor quality nutrients, the chemical additives in pet food play a major part in that decline. Pet foods contain slaughterhouse wastes, toxic products from spoiled foodstuffs, non-nutritive fillers, heavy-metal contaminants, pesticides, herbicides, drug residues, sugar, and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives."  

In fact, I recommend only ONE commercial diet. It contains:

 

Turkey
Chicken
Chicken Meal
Ground Barley
Ground Brown Rice
Whole Potatoes
Ground White Rice
Chicken Fat
Herring
Apples
Carrots
Cottage Cheese
Sunflower Oil
Alfalfa Sprouts
Egg
Garlic
Probiotics to aid digestion (Lactobacillus Acidophilus)

 

 

Should You Breed or Neuter?

Did you know...

  • that your female's reproductive system makes her vulnerable to serious health problems that can shorten her lifespan?
  • that your male's reproductive system causes hormonal surges that can drive him to ignore your commands, to lift his leg on your belongings, to escape from your yard, to pick a fight with other male dogs, and/or to be attacked by other male dogs?

 

 

Testing and Choosing Puppies

Do not let the PUPPY choose YOU:

You may have been advised by well-meaning friends to let a pomeranian puppy choose YOU, i.e. the one who comes to you first or seems to like you the most. This usually results in all the bold and pushy puppies (who are often difficult to raise) being taken first, while the gentle puppies (who usually make calmer pets) wait politely in the background.

Most families make a mistake by letting the most brash, forceful pomeranian puppies choose them. Sure, these little dynamos are a blast to play with for an hour at the breeder's. But they can drive you crazy if you have to live with them 24 hours a day.

A puppy can love you without being suited to you all -- and a puppy can be perfectly suited to you without launching himself immediately into your lap. Give each pomeranian puppy a fair evaluation.

Evaluate the litter as a whole:

Your first look should be at the litter as a group. If there are four puppies and three of them are running away or staying at arm's length or woofing suspiciously at you, I'm sorry to say your visit is over.

No, you should not buy the fourth pomeranian puppy. The chances are too great that shyness or distrustfulness is in his genes, too, and simply has not caught up to him yet.

In addition, do not let a breeder laugh off his puppies' timidity with assurances of, "Oh, they just haven't been handled much." Lack of socialization means laziness or ignorance on the part of the breeder. You do not want a puppy from a lazy or ignorant breeder. If he can't even socialize properly, who knows what else he screwed up?

Puppies who hide or tuck their tails or shrink away from you are not safe choices as pets. Don't try to convince yourself that you can "bring them out of their shell." You don't know what's going on in these puppies' genes. Shy pomeranian puppies usually become shy dogs who may snap defensively at anything that startles them.


If the litter isn't running away, what should they be doing? Normal puppies are friendly, curious, trusting. They mill around your feet, tug at your shoelaces, crawl into your lap, nibble on your fingers.


After a while, they may stop playing with you and begin wrestling with one another. You can tell a lot about the individual pomeranian puppies by the way they interact with their littermates.

  • Which ones are strong, outgoing, bossy, noisy?
  • Which ones are quiet, submissive, gentle?
  • Which ones grab all the toys and win the tugs-of-war?
  • Which ones seem delicate or picked on?

Most families do best with a pup who is neither boss of the litter nor lowest on the totem pole. Look for good-natured, middle-of-the-road pomeranian pups who don't growl or grab or bite, but who do join in and hold their own.


Clap your hands gently, snap your fingers, jingle your car keys, shuffle your feet, whistle softly, cluck your tongue.

  • Which pups are interested?
  • Which ones come over to investigate?
  • Which ones are apprehensive?

You want an alert and confident puppy. A nervous pomeranian puppy who is afraid of sudden sounds or quick movements will not do well in a busy household. A puppy who is completely oblivious may be too dull, too independent, or unhealthy.

Evaluate individual puppies:

Next, ask the breeder if you can see each pomeranian puppy who is available for sale, individually. Ask him to remove the other pups.

You want to see how each pomeranian puppy reacts when he is away from his littermates. Sometimes a puppy who seems bold when "his friends are backing him up" will become uncertain or anxious on his own. Or sometimes an energetic puppy will calm down when not being egged on by the others; given your undivided attention, he may become quite the lap-sitter.

  • What is his general expression and body language?
  • Does he keep his tail up or mostly down?
  • Is his tail wagging, even hesitantly?
  • When you talk to him, does he look at your face?
  • Does he cock his head and listen to you?
Personality tests you can do!

 

Pomeranian Reviews:

Anonymous of Houston, TX writes:

Hey there, little bear!
For the past ten years I have appreciated and adored the love that comes from puppies. I have had the honor of receiving love from some of the best lap dogs, however, the love that I receive from a Pomeranian pup is like no other. The thought of having a real live teddy bear is every girl's dream, and the Pomeranian is where this dream begins. Where do I begin, why not start from it's most hypnotizing feature - the hair? Enough said, not to mention it's adaptive personality. Who doesn't want to spend their time with a small complimentary companion that reminds them totally of themself? I know I do!
 

Anonymous of Santa Barbara, CA writes:

Precious.
I have a Pomeranian and she is the best dog in the world! She is playful, intelligent, sweet and a joy to have around. I have taken her all over with me. She loves the beach and the park and bike rides in the bike basket. She travels about in a small bag (designed for dogs) on my shoulder. I have taken her to the store, grocery shopping, movies, hotels, everywhere. She is very well-behaved and never barks (unless told to). She knows a variety of tricks including shake, rollover, speak, wave goodbye, lay, sit, stay. She sleeps on my pillow and she is the joy of my life. Pomeranians are a great breed!
 

Anonymous of U.S. writes:

Loyal companion.
I love this little dog. I have never been a fan of small dogs, but our Pomeranian has stolen my heart. I inherited this dog along with his owner,both with similiar dispositions, strong and loveable. We keep our Pomeranian shaved (looks like a relative of the Italian Vopino). This dog has a lion's heart, and the gentleness of a small child. However, he can be startled easily and does not take to teasing. He is fiercely loyal and loves to be spoiled. He talks quite a bit, but one word quiets the household. Our Pom is incredibly bright, and knows when he has misbehaved (going through trash). One word in our household "time out" and he immediately goes down the hall and into the closet to wait. Big personality, affection, and strength in such a small dog.
 

Anonymous of Houston, TX writes:

I've raised three!
Poms are the best breed to own if you have children. My Poms have never bitten, barked or even growled at children. They are very patient and tolerant of children. These small dogs are vibrant and entertaining. They take on their owner's habits and love attention. Though they can be a little hard to train, they are very loyal, loving and willing to please.
 

Name withheld by request of North Carolina writes:

Best dog I have ever had.
My Pomeranian is the love of my life! He is the best dog I have ever had. I never have problems with shedding and it is so nice to have a furry dog that doesn't require haircuts. All I do is give him a bath once in awhile and brush him once a week and he does great. They are such loyal dogs; very protective of their owners. Mine is such a lap dog and is always a constant companion. I will never buy another breed.
 

Name withheld by request of California writes:

The best of the best.
My Pom is an absolute joy. She loves my small children, was a breeze to housebreak, and is a constant source of entertainment for us all. I find that if I give her her weekly bath and brush her out (no fine comb detangling necessary) that the shedding is minimal if any at all. Now, if I neglect the brushing for a day or two then I have a problem but it is really a simple process and an easy habit to get into. I grew up with Yorkies and Maltese so I am familiar with small breeds and I have to say that Poms are my favorite, with the Yorkie at a close second. I always loved the Maltese but my mom still has them and every one has always been "yappy."

My Pom on the other hand rarely speaks up, (except for times that the kids will get her to howl along to the harmonica, but I believe that singing is her one vice). She loves my cat and they will lie side by side on their backs together and suntan their bellies by my sliding glass door where the sun shines in the afternoon. I don't know what we would do without her!
 

Anonymous of California writes:

Sweet little clowns.
I had a rescue Pom for five years and he was the joy of our lives. He was loyal, cheerful, forgiving, generous, and unfailing kind to us poor humans. He inspired us to want to be the kind of people he clearly thought we were. He came into our lives unexpectedly and completely blew apart any ideas we had about dogs ­p; especially "little" dogs. He had a big heart and a courageous spirit. His health problems cost us both anxiety and money but that was trivial when compared to the pleasure he gave us every single day. The only reason I'm rating Poms four stars instead of five has to do with their health problems. DO NOT BUY FROM A PET STORE. Use the internet and find a responsible breeder.
 

Anonymous of Ft. Wayne, IN writes:

Great dogs.
They are great companions, loyal all-around, great pets. But they shed too much, and mine is too inactive, lays around too much.
 

Name withheld by request of Texas writes:

Furry pests.
My experience with Pomeranians has left me with a bad taste for them. I find them noisey and stupid, impossible to housebreak, and with poor manners. Their yap is high and irritating and goes on and on. Their fur gets all over the place and easily tangles. They are expensive to breed and don't do well at whelping ­p; need vet assistance. All in all, not a very good breed.
 

Anonymous of the Orland Park, IL writes on 2/18/00:

The Jerry Lewis of the dog world!
This is my favorite dog I have ever had! He is a true clown. He makes me laugh all of the time! Pomeranians are a little difficult to train, but once you get past that they are soo much fun! They are adorable little bundles of joy.

They look like miniture foxes, and they have long fluffy coats. This coat does shed, but honestly not as bad as you would think for a dog with so much hair.They also like alot of attention. He is my baby, he lets me dress him in doggy clothes, even Halloween costumes, and a Santa suit at Christmas.

Each day when I get home, he greets me at the door, he has even learned to mimic the way I wave to him when I say "Hi!" to him.(he waves his little paw up and down when I come in.) If one is looking for a true "companion" dog, you could not pick a better dog than a Pomeranian.

 

 

Articles on POMs:

Poms Hit the Big Ten List

Last year saw a new trend in dog ownership....a small dog breed called Pomeranian became one of the most popular registered dog breeds in America. Pomeranians (or Poms as they affectionately known by their owners) broke into the top ten list for registered dogs, the first time in over twenty years a toy breed has achieved that status.

The popularity of the small lovable dogs is at an all-time high. At about an average weight of six pounds for adults the toy Pomeranian of 1995 is a far cry from the much larger ancestors of just last century.

The Pomeranian is related to the Spitz family, furry dogs which came out of the blustery Arctic circle and were renowned for their skills in carrying loads, hunting, and guard dog duties.

The Pom got its name from a small province called Pomerania in what is now eastern Germany. Back in the Renaissance era these early German Poms weighed in at a hefty 35 pounds. They were highly desirable pets for the people who lived in continental Europe.

According to Mrs. Eyke Schmidt-Rohde of Germany there were many famous Pom owners in Europe. One was the great church leader Martin Luther, who had a Pomeranian named Belferlein. He mentioned his pet on numerous occasions in his written works.

And did you know the talented Michelangelo had a Pomeranian who patiently watched him paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling? It sat on a satin pillow and watched the artist create his masterpiece.

The physicist Isaac Newton had a Pom named Diamond who had the bad habit of chewing up his master's manuscripts. And in the musical world Mozart had a female Pom named Pimperl (to whom he dedicated an aria) and Chopin was so amused by his girlfriend's Pom that he composed the there are too many Poms wh à"Valse des Petits Chienso breed Poms to have the ‚  " for the pet.

But fate would soon bring the popularity of the gentle European dogs to England in the form of a political marriage.

It was in 1761 when a 17-year-old girl from a neighboring province of Pomerania traveled to England and married Prince George III. Her name was Charlotte and she would bear 15 children for the monarchy (Prince George soon became King George early in their marriage). But more importantly for our story of the modern Pomeranians, it was Charlotte who brought the first Poms to England.

The first Poms she brought to England were mainly white dogs and most weighed over 20 pounds. But although her dogs were popular among royal circles, the breed failed to strike the fancy of the general dog breeders.

That spark would be fanned by the birth of a little girl in 1819 who was the granddaughter of Queen Charlotte (who had died the previous year). The little girl's name was Victoria and she would rule Britannia for 64 years as her Queen.

Queen Victoria was a devoted dog fancier, and when her husband (Prince Albert) suddenly sickened and died in 1861 at the age of 42 the saddened Queen grew even fonder of her gentle pets. She raised in her lifetime more than 15 different breeds of canines and in her later years her attentions were particularly focused on the Pomeranian breed.

The beloved Queen made a trip to Italy in 1888 and while there she purchased a sable red Pom named Marco and brought him back to England. Marco weighed only 12 pounds and many dog historians point to him as being the instigator of the desire to breed smaller Pomeranians. Marco went on to compete under the Queen's name in many dog shows and he won many honors.

Victoria also bought three other Poms on the same trip to Florence in 1888 and the most famous next to Marco was a cute little female named Gina who also became a champion at London dog shows. Victoria loved her Poms so much that as she lay dying she asked for her favorite Pom Turi to be brought to her bedside. Spurred by the Queen's kennel of Poms, English dog fanciers began breeding even smaller Poms, and when the adult dogs began to hit below eight pounds they were called Toy Pomeranians.

In 1888 the first American Pom was entered into the American Kennel Club's stud book, and in 1892 the first Pom to be shown in America was entered in a dog show in New York. Today the breed has reached even smaller weights, and some dog breeders predict that 3 pound adult dogs may be possible in a few more years. But for the time being most Pom owners have stabilized in the 5 to 7 pound range, and the general consensus of opinion is that smaller dogs may indeed be shown at dog shows, but females under five pounds should not be bred.

One problem in breeding for smallness is that runts were typically used in this effort. The use of such dogs did achieve the desired effect, but at the expense of passing on genetic problems. Small toy breeds like Poms have a high incidence of knee and teeth problems. The retention of baby teeth is a common problem with small dog breeds, caused by the many years of linebreeding and even more directly caused by inbreeding.

The beloved Queen made a trip to Italy in 1888 and while there she purchased a sable red Pom named Marco and brought him back to England. Marco weighed only 12 pounds and many dog historians point to him as being the instigator of the desire to breed smaller Pomeranians.

Marco went on to compete under the Queen's name in many dog shows and he won many honors. Victoria also bought three other Poms on the same trip to Florence in 1888 and the most famous next to Marco was a cute little female named Gina who also became a champion at London dog shows. Victoria loved her Poms so much that as she lay dying she asked for her favorite Pom Turi to be brought to her bedside.

Spurred by the Queen's kennel of Poms, English dog fanciers began breeding even smaller Poms, and when the adult dogs began to hit below eight pounds they were called Toy Pomeranians. In 1888 the first American Pom was entered into the American Kennel Club's stud book, and in 1892 the first Pom to be shown in America was entered in a dog show in New York.

Today the breed has reached even smaller weights, and some dog breeders predict that 3 pound adult dogs may be possible in a few more years. But for the time being most Pom owners have stabilized in the 5 to 7 pound range, and the general consensus of opinion is that smaller dogs may indeed be shown at dog shows, but females under five pounds should not be bred.

One problem in breeding for smallness is that runts were typically used in this effort. The use of such dogs did achieve the desired effect, but at the expense of passing on genetic problems. Small toy breeds like Poms have a high incidence of knee and teeth problems. The retention of baby teeth is a common problem with small dog breeds, caused by the many years of linebreeding and even more directly caused by inbreeding.

A very lovable dog, the Pom is excellent with children and can be trained to do many tricks. A fairly expensive dog, full-blooded toy Pomeranian pups can command hefty prices for their masters. But because of the desirable qualities of the breed most owners consider it money well spent. As one satisfied Pom owner wrote on the Internet: "What kind of dog can be better than a toy breed like the Pom? They don't eat much, their poop is a lot less to clean up after, and you can give them a bath in the kitchen sink."

 

Pomeranian Dog History

The Pom is a compact dog with a soft undercoat and harsh long outer coat. He has a plumed tail that is upright with the end laying flat along the back. His demeanor is alert and curious. With his fox like appearance, the Pom has a short muzzle with rounded skull, small ears and almond shaped bright eyes. The Breed standard allows all colors. The AKC standard size for a Pom is 3 to 7 pounds. With today's tiny Poms weighing in at around 5 pounds, it’s hard to picture that these little cuties once weighed over 30 pounds! Cousins of the Spitz type dogs, Pomeranians once were at home in the arctic along with Huskies and Malamutes. These vivacious lap dogs get their name from the province “Pomerania” which was located where Eastern Germany is now. Originally brought to England in the 1700’s, by Prince George III’s new bride, this larger version of the toy dog would not become popular until the late 1800’s when Queen Victoria who brought home a 12 pound Pom from Italy. The popularity of these tiny dogs spread quickly around the European upper class and the dog was soon bred down to it’s current size of about 5 pounds. Many of the famous favored the Pom including Michelangelo whose Pom would sit on a silk pillow while he painted the Sistine chapel, Martin Luther who mentioned his toy dog in his work, Mozart who dedicated and aria to his pet Pom and Chopin who wrote the Valse des Petits Chiens for his girlfriends Pom. The Pom was recognized by The Kennel Club in Great Britain in 1870 and recognized in 1900 by the American Kennel Club.

More about Pomeranians  

 

THIS BREED

  • Is very small and "spitz-like", with pricked ears, foxy face, a thick coat, and curled tail
  • Is vivacious and spunky, bright and attentive
  • Is delightfully alive and aware of everything going on around him and keenly alert to approaching strangers
  • Is usually fine with other pets

 

 BE AWARE

  • An extremely careful search to avoid all the nasty, neurotic Pomeranians
  • The fragility of toy breeds (see below)
  • Suspicious yappiness toward strangers when not socialized enough
  • Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
  • Barking
  • Regular brushing and combing
  • Heavy shedding
  • Housebreaking difficulties

 

Unstable temperaments. Pomeranians are a dime a dozen, and most of them are bred and offered for sale by people who don't have the slightest idea of how to breed good-tempered dogs.

Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants see LOTS of Pomeranians with neurotic behaviors, including biting, sharpness, extreme fearfulness, moodiness, and general nastiness.

 

Fragility.

Too many people acquire a toy breed puppy without understanding how incredibly fragile a toy breed is.

You can seriously injure or kill a Pomeranian puppy by stepping on him or by sitting on him when he's curled under a blanket or pillow, where he frequently likes to sleep.

And Pomeranians can seriously injure or kill THEMSELVES by leaping from your arms or off the back of your sofa. A larger dog can grab a Pomeranian and break his neck with one quick shake.

Owning a toy breed means constant supervision and surveillance of what's going on around your tiny dog.

Pomeranians must always be kept indoors, in a safely fenced yard, or on-leash -- they are just too easy to injure when not under your complete control.

 

Suspiciousness. 

Standoffish by nature, Pomeranians need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds.

Otherwise their natural caution can become suspiciousness, which are difficult to live with and could even lead to defensive biting.

 

Mind of their own. Pomeranians are not a submissive or sissies' breed.

They are very bright, but they have an independent mind of their own and can be manipulative.

You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

 

Barking.

Pomeranians are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them.

If you work all day and have close neighbors, Pomeranians are not a good choice for you. For the same reason, Pomeranians should NEVER be left outside in your yard, unsupervised.

To make matters worse, some Poms have high-pitched barks that can set your teeth on edge.

 

Grooming.

To keep their thick coat free of mats, Pomeranians require regular brushing and combing, and occasional trimming of straggly hairs.

 

Heavy shedding. Pomeranians are one of the heaviest shedding of the toy breeds.

You'll find hair and fur all over your clothing, upholstery, carpeting, under your furniture, on your countertops -- even in your food. Frequent vacuuming will become a way of life. Make sure you're REALLY up for this.

 

Housebreaking.

Toy breeds are almost always difficult to housebreak. It is so easy for them to sneak behind a chair or under a small table, and it takes only a few seconds for the deed to be done.

The results can be hard to see. When you don't see it, you don't correct it -- and so the bad habit becomes established. If you hope to housebreak a toy breed, consistent crate training is mandatory.

Pomeranians should not be loosed in the house for many months, until their small internal organs become strong enough for reliable control.

 

If you acquire a Pomeranian puppy, you can't know for sure what he or she will grow up to be like. Because a good number of purebred puppies do NOT grow up to conform to the "norm."

 

If you have small children, I do not recommend a Pomeranian. There are just too many Poms who won't tolerate any nonsense. And there are too many Poms who feel overwhelmed by the loud voices and quick movements that children can't help making -- and stress and shyness (even defensive biting) may be the result.

 

Weight Standards: m/f - 3 to 7 lbs. Height Standards: m/f - 6 inches Coat: Dense stand-out coat, any color Common Ailments: slipped stifle

The Pomeranian is a direct descendent of a thirty pound British herding dog transported to an area of North Central Europe during the Middle Ages.

There this thirty pound dog was bred with a smaller breed from Iceland, known as a "Spits dog", and the breed we now know as the Pomeranian developed. The three pound dog that developed in this area is now the smallest member of the Spits family of dogs.

It was for the Prussian province of Pomerania, where this cross breeding took place, that the resulting toy sized herding/Spits dog was named.

Colors: All colors, but free from black or white shadings; whole colors are white, black, brown, light or dark blue. Coat: Long, straight and harsh with a soft, fluffy undercoat.

Temperament: Pomeranians are friendly, active, lively With Children: They may not tolerate young children. With Pets: Yes Special Skills: Companion and pet.

Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Very Low

Care and Training: Daily brushing of the long double coat is needed to prevent matting. Monthly bathing is recommended. Pomeranians shed once or twice a year. Clean eyes, ears and teeth regularly. Pomeranians do not need a large amount of exercise. Indoors at home or a romp in the park will suffice.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Very Low, Problem Solving - High

Activity: Indoor - Very High, Outdoor - Medium
Living Environment: Apartment or house, city or country, Pomeranians thrive in a busy family atmosphere and love to be pampered. Makes an excellent companion for the elderly.

Health Issues: Patella luxation, cesarean sections are possible if the female is small, will lose teeth if not well cared for.

Life Span: 15 years
Litter Size:
1 - 3

 

...check out just SOME of the information you will find inside:
 

Learn the primary concern why a Pomeranian can be hard to train by knowing this, you'll be able to suit its need and the next thing you know, he'll be fetching the newspaper every morning for you!

You'll learn how worthwhile can your Pomeranian be for your family and children

The little known secrets of why Poms must be obedient

Teach your Pom to sit, stay, lay down, come, fetch and more

Stop unwanted behavior like barking, chewing or begging

How to housetrain your Pomeranian quickly and easily
The quick and easy way to keep Pom out of trouble like when he barks at your neighbor!

The critical information on the dangerous disease that a Pomeranian can get easily infected with compared to any other types of dogsOne of the best ways to make dog obedience training 'fun' for both of you

Sure-fire methods to breed Poms to have the traits you want

How to decide what is best to feed your dog to make sure it's healthy most of the time

Step-by-step instructions to train your dog in the beginning, when you first started and with love

I'll help you to know exactly why you must check the parents' traits of a Pomeranian puppy before adopting it

The simple trick which will stop your Pom from chewing your slippers and furniture!

Choosing the right grooming for your Pomeranian - do this wrong and you'll irritate your dog!

A complete explanation of the origin and nature of Poms this will help you to understand it much deeper
 

 

 

Simple formula on how to save your dog if it encounters kidney trouble that is not obvious externally

What is the balanced diet for a healthy Pomeranian so that it's fit to run and able to play with you

The secret weapon of how to use praise effectively on your dog - He'll just love it when you do it correctly

But That's Not All...
You'll Also Discover...
Tips and tricks of how to train your dog to follow your instructions and gain your attention quickly

The hidden truth about a Pomeranian's sensitive health that you must know how to take care of

How to quickly know if your Pom is in a happy mood especially when it sees other people

What all Pomeranians must have to make them happy and be wonderful companions

How and why you must know about fleas, as much as about your dog, because fleas can be a huge problem if you have a dog

 How to prevent your Pomeranian from getting fleas - it's one of the most irritating things that can happen to your dog (AND YOU TOO), avoid it at all cost!

Discover why obedience training is a must for your Pomeranian

What you must do if you find that your dog has fleas

Why Pomeranians have such powerful affection for humans

How to identify the difference attitudes of male and female Poms
The relatively unknown tip that help Pomeranians adapt to any environment

How often your dog must be treated to avoid heartworms

Exactly how long a typical, normal Pom can live - so don't expect your dog to perform outrageous tricks and stunts when it's already a 'grandpa'!



 
History of Pomeranians

Pomeranians first appeared in the once Prussian region of Pomerania, which is now recognized as Germany and Poland. They are the descendents of ancient sled dogs from Lapland and Iceland known as the Spitz breed. At first Poms were larger in size and were used to herd sheep. They were later bred to a smaller size in Pomerania, which is also where the breed received their name.

Pomeranians didn’t become a popular breed until one dog was brought to England in 1888 and was presented as a gift to Queen Victoria.

Due to the Queen’s popularity, it wasn’t long before owning a Pomeranian was considered high fashion among the court.

With their popularity well established in England, Pomeranians were brought to America during the early 20 th century, and quickly became a hit.

However, the dogs that were held with such esteem in England and America during this time, did not look like the Poms so many dog owners have come to know and love today.

Pomeranians of the past had less puffy coats, larger ears and bones, and weighed just under 6 pounds.

Aside from having a history of being cute, fashionable dogs with plenty of personality, Pomeranians have also been used for other purposes than simply as a gift to the Queen.

For instance, Poms are celebrated for their intelligence and hard work. They were, and still are often used for:

 

 

 

  

 

Like many of the Toy breeds, Pomeranians have plenty of energy and are not afraid to use it. They are not the type of dog to laze around, and enjoy staying active whenever they can. Therefore, regardless of where you live, Poms will find ways to get the exercise they need, as they are extremely active indoors. Thus, even if you live in an apartment, or are unable to provide the dog with plenty of outside exercise, the dog will not suffer from this. That being said, you should still make it an effort to take your Pom outside whenever you can, as he does enjoy long walks.

The Pomeranian is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. He stands 8 – 11 inches at the shoulder, and weighs only 3 – 7 pounds. His physical characteristics make him susceptible to injury. For this reason, it is important that children are taught how to properly play with the dog, and that everyone in the family is conscious of where the dog is at all times, as he can be easily stepped or sat on.

Furthermore, although Pomeranians don’t mind children, they are tempermental and can easily become overwhelmed if very young children pay them too much attention. This attention may make the dog nervous and cause him to become snappy.

Aside from children, Poms are known to get along well with other pets, especially their fellow canines. However, should a Pom feel threatened by a larger dog, they won’t think twice about attacking and defending themselves or their owner, as they are not aware of their own size. Therefore, it’s your job to keep your Pom out of danger and trouble. This can easily be done through proper training, which will give you the right control over the dog.

Speaking of training, the Pom is a quick learner. That being said, it is imperative that the Pomeranian is taught that their owner is boss. If you let a Pomeranian walk all over you, he’ll no longer listen to you, and become extremely possessive and demanding of you. In addition, a Pomeranian should also be well socialized, or he could become suspicious or show aggression towards strangers.

 

Pomeranians love to bark, which makes them excellent watchdogs. On the other hand, if you let the barking get out of control, it won’t be long before the barking wears your patience.

Poms have a long double coat that requires frequent brushing (every day). They do shed their undercoat twice a year, so expect tufts of fur scattered around your home during shedding season. The coat should be given a dry shampoo only when it is needed.

Pomeranians live an average of 12 – 16 years. They are prone to heart, skin, knee and eye problems. They are also prone to early tooth loss which is common among many of the Toy breeds. They should be fed dry food to help keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Pomeranians are ideal for first time dog owners, as they are easy to care for, and easy to love. Just remember you need to make sure the Pom knows who’s boss, and be constantly conscious of his presence.

Pomeranian Dogs and Holidays

Pomeranian dogs and holidays are not always a good combination. Although your dog will enjoy being a part of the fun and celebrations, there are many holiday dangers that pose a potential threat to your dog if overlooked.

What kind of dangers? Below is a list of the common dangers associated with holidays that you need to constantly be aware of:

 

Alcoholicdrinks – Alcohol can be quite deadly to Pomeranian dogs if ingested. It only takes a single oz. of 20-40 proof alcohol beverages to cause alcohol poisoning. Make sure all drinks are kept well away from your dog’s reaching level.

Goodies – At many holidays there are always plenty of chocolate and candy treats to go around. Chocolate can be deadly to small dogs, even if only a tiny amount is ingested.

Keep all snacks and goodies up high so your dog can not reach them. Furthermore, make sure you don’t offer any of these goodies to your dog. If you want to give Pomeranian dogs a holiday treat, purchase them a special dog treat and give it to them instead.

 

Garbage – You will likely fill plenty of garbage bags when you have guests over during the holidays. Make sure you keep garbage bags secured under your sink so your dog cannot access them.

If bags are full, dispose of them properly, don’t leave them lying around. Your dog could get into it and eat food that can make him sick, or ingest small wrappers he could choke on.

Decorations – Pomeranian dogs are curious creatures and will get into mischief if they aren’t supervised. Therefore, you will not want to carelessly hang decorations, or make them easily accessible to your dog.

Common decorations that can be hazardous to dogs if they get hold of them include: Christmas trees, ornaments (especially glass), tinsel, angel hair, ribbons, wired lights, artificial snow, etc.

Aside from the actual decorations, another hazard can be the tools you use to put up these items such as staples, tape, etc.

Make sure decorations are well fastened, and don’t hang any tree ornaments on the lower branches where your dog can reach. If a dog ingests decorations they can become trapped in his digestive track.

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Presents – If the Christmas holiday is being celebrated and presents are being opened, make sure you are watching your dog at all times. Presents that are the most dangerous are plastic toys with small parts that can be easily swallowed by Pomeranian dogs. Also, keep in mind that ribbons, bows and any other decorations on presents should be discarded once ripped off the gift.

 Potpourri – Potpourri is a popular form of fragrance used for the holiday season. This should be used in an area where your dog is not usually present, and should be placed up high. If your Pom happened to eat or inhale the Potpourri it can cause serious respiratory irritation, skin rash, burns and stomach upset. Potpourri is quite toxic to dogs.

 Toomuchtraffic – Pomeranians are very small and can be easily stepped or sat on. If there are too many people in one room, and there is much merry making, little dogs can be forgotten and easily injured.

Essentially, when it comes time for the holidays, you need to make sure your Pomeranian dogs are safe without compromising yours and your guests’ enjoyment. This means if there are too many people around, keep your dog in a separate area where he is out of the way and you don’t have to worry about him getting into mischief that could lead to serious consequences.

Selecting Purebred Pomeranian Puppies

 

Pomeranian puppies

Pomeranian puppies are very small, fragile and very cute. Their adorable features and endearing personality will instantly make you fall in love with them.

However, being enamored with a puppy is something you will want to avoid until you have properly inspected the liter and made sure it is healthy and a credit to the standard.

It’s your job to ensure the puppy you take home is healthy and a purebred Pomeranian.

 

The following are the basic characteristics of the purebred:

The first aspect you will notice about Pomeranian puppies is that they look like little foxes.

The reason you will make this association is because the head and nose of the Pomeranian is outlined in a fox shape. However, aside from this distinction, they have a slightly flat skull that is relatively large in comparison to the size of their muzzle.

The muzzle has no excess hanging skin and comes to a fine point ending with a black, brown, or coat colored button nose. The muzzle should have perfect small teeth that form a pristine scissor bite.

 

Poms have sweet, medium sized eyes that look almost oval in shape. Their dark eyes are proportioned to their face, are set evenly apart, and convey an intelligent expression.

The eyes are surrounded by rims that are either the same color as the coat or are black. For instance, if the Pomeranian puppies have a white, cream, orange, or shaded sable coat, their eye rims will be black.

That being said, the acceptable coat colors for the Pomeranian include the above mentioned as well as: black, dark or light brown, pale blue and beaver.

Note: if the Pom has a shaded sable coat it should consist of at lest three evenly shaded colors, and no patches of self-coloring.

 

POMERANIAN COATS

Aside from the color of the coat, Pomeranians have two coats – the undercoat and the outer coat. The undercoat is extremely soft and puffy. The outer coat is coarse and long, and covers the dog’s entire body.

POMERANIAN BODY SHAPE

Pomeranian puppies have a compact and well rounded body. Their back is short, while their neck evenly flows into the shoulders. Their chest is deep but well proportioned to the body.

They have medium length, straight legs that consist of fine bones. Their feet are very cat-like and are small. The characteristics that define their legs and feet is what gives Poms their free and spirited gait.

 

POMERANIAN EARS AND TAILS

The last two parts of Pomeranian puppies you should inspect are the two features that give the breed their most distinctive appearance – Ears and tail.

The ears of a Pom are small but are perfectly erect. His tail is also set high and carried proud and straight. The tail features a lovely plume, and the ears are well feathered.

Knowing what to look for when choosing from Pomeranian puppies is an important part of becoming a dog owner. That is why it is so important for you to research the dog so you know exactly what you are getting into, and so you can protect yourself from disreputable breeders.

 

Show Dog Pomeranian Training

 

Pomeranian Training can go far beyond basic commands if you want it to. Poms are known for their intelligence and exceptional learning skills. This makes them a breed ideal for the show ring.

The following information will help you use the right Pomeranian training to prepare your Pom to become a show dog:

 

  • The first aspect of training for a show that you need to understand is that it is a lot of hard work. This is because, unlike teaching your dog basic commands, the lessons that need to be taught are recognized as activity training. Carefully consider if you and your Pom are ready for this challenge.
  • Learn how to properly groom your dog for a show from a professional book, video, or groomer. The best thing is to find a specialized lesson that has been designed specifically for Pomeranian grooming techniques.

 

GROOMING THE POM

Just like Pomeranian training, you should make grooming an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. It helps to get your Pomeranian used to grooming, as this will help him become more accustomed to being handled.

If you don’t have a grooming table for your Pomeranian, place a rubber mat or another non-slip piece of material on a table. You can teach your Pom to jump up on the table.

 

  • Practice stacking or posing your dog as soon as he is comfortable with the grooming table.

First have him become accustomed to his legs being moved and having him stay in this position for a few seconds.

Eventually begin to increase the time you make him stay on the table. Be sure to give him plenty or praise as he stands poised.

 

INSPECTION

Once your dog has learned to stay poised, you then need to move on to the next step of his Pomeranian training which is inspecting your dog as a judge will. Check his teeth, legs, feet, etc.

 

TRAINING THE POMERANIAN

  • Enroll your dog in handling classes. If there are none in your area, find a good video substitute that will teach you. It’s in your best interest to find a video specific to your breed.
  • Your Pom will need leash training. This form of Pomeranian training is about putting him on a leash and then allowing him to go wherever he desires. As you walk beside your Pom, call to him.

Then change directions by giving the leash a gentle tug. The tug should be firm enough that he turns his head in the new direction you wish to take. When you change directions coax your Pom to come.

If he does, shower him with plenty of praise, and give him a nice pet if he walks up beside you, but keep walking. Continue to repeat this maneuver until your Pom understands that a tug on the leash is an order to change directions.

 

Poms Hit the Big Ten List

 

POPULARITY OF POMS

Last year saw a new trend in dog ownership....this small dog breed called Pomeranian became one of the most popular registered dog breeds in America. Pomeranians (or Poms as they affectionately known by their owners) broke into the top ten list for registered dogs, the first time in over twenty years a toy breed has achieved that status.

The popularity of the small lovable dogs is at an all-time high. At about an average weight of six pounds for adults the toy Pomeranian of 1995 is a far cry from the much larger ancestors of just last century.

The Pomeranian is related to the Spitz family, furry dogs which came out of the blustery Arctic circle and were renowned for their skills in carrying loads, hunting, and guard dog dutie

 

The Pom got its name from a small province called Pomerania in what is now eastern Germany. Back in the Renaissance era these early German Poms weighed in at a hefty 35 pounds. They were highly desirable pets for the people who lived in continental Europe.

According to Mrs. Eyke Schmidt-Rohde of Germany there were many famous Pom owners in Europe. One was the great church leader Martin Luther, who had a Pomeranian named Belferlein. He mentioned his pet on numerous occasions in his written works.

And did you know the talented Michelangelo had a Pomeranian who patiently watched him paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling? It sat on a satin pillow and watched the artist create his masterpiece.

 

The physicist Isaac Newton had a Pom named Diamond who had the bad habit of chewing up his master's manuscripts. And in the musical world Mozart had a female Pom named Pimperl (to whom he dedicated an aria) and Chopin was so amused by his girlfriend's Pom that he composed the "Valse des Petits Chiens" for the pet.

But fate would soon bring the popularity of the gentle European dogs to England in the form of a political marriage.

It was in 1761 when a 17-year-old girl from a neighboring province of Pomerania traveled to England and married Prince George III. Her name was Charlotte and she would bear 15 children for the monarchy (Prince George soon became King George early in their marriage). But more importantly for our story of the modern Pomeranians, it was Charlotte who brought the first Poms to England.

 

The first Poms she brought to England were mainly white dogs and most weighed over 20 pounds. But although her dogs were popular among royal circles, the breed failed to strike the fancy of the general dog breeders.

That spark would be fanned by the birth of a little girl in 1819 who was the granddaughter of Queen Charlotte (who had died the previous year). The little girl's name was Victoria and she would rule Britannia for 64 years as her Queen.

Queen Victoria was a devoted dog fancier, and when her husband (Prince Albert) suddenly sickened and died in 1861 at the age of 42 the saddened Queen grew even fonder of her gentle pets. She raised in her lifetime more than 15 different breeds of canines and in her later years her attentions were particularly focused on the Pomeranian breed.

 

The beloved Queen made a trip to Italy in 1888 and while there she purchased a sable red Pom named Marco and brought him back to England. Marco weighed only 12 pounds and many dog historians point to him as being the instigator of the desire to breed smaller Pomeranians.

Marco went on to compete under the Queen's name in many dog shows and he won many honors. Victoria also bought three other Poms on the same trip to Florence in 1888 and the most famous next to Marco was a cute little female named Gina who also became a champion at London dog shows. Victoria loved her Poms so much that as she lay dying she asked for her favorite Pom Turi to be brought to her bedside.

Spurred by the Queen's kennel of Poms, English dog fanciers began breeding even smaller Poms, and when the adult dogs began to hit below eight pounds they were called Toy Pomeranians. In 1888 the first American Pom was entered into the American Kennel Club's stud book, and in 1892 the first Pom to be shown in America was entered in a dog show in New York

 

Today the breed has reached even smaller weights, and some dog breeders predict that 3 pound adult dogs may be possible in a few more years. But for the time being most Pom owners have stabilized in the 5 to 7 pound range, and the general consensus of opinion is that smaller dogs may indeed be shown at dog shows, but females under five pounds should not be bred.

One problem in breeding for smallness is that runts were typically used in this effort. The use of such dogs did achieve the desired effect, but at the expense of passing on genetic problems. Small toy breeds like Poms have a high incidence of knee and teeth problems. The retention of baby teeth is a common problem with small dog breeds, caused by the many years of linebreeding and even more directly caused by inbreeding.

A very lovable dog, the Pom is excellent with children and can be trained to do many tricks. A fairly expensive dog, full-blooded toy Pomeranian pups can command hefty prices for their masters. But because of the desirable qualities of the breed most owners consider it money well spent. As one satisfied Pom owner wrote on the Internet: "What kind of dog can be better than a toy breed like the Pom? They don't eat much, their poop is a lot less to clean up after, and you can give them a bath in the kitchen sink."

 

HEALTH CARE AND CONCERNS

PROPER FEEDING:

As a responsible pet owner, you must be aware of all that your toy dog eats.  It is very tempting to want to give your dog some of your own food.  Most dog owners find it hard to resist that lovable face looking at us with an expression of hunger!  It is important to remember , that while this will temporarily please your Pomeranian, it is in no way healthy.  

Providing your Pomeranian with a mainly "human food" based diet can lead to a large variety of health issues; liver disease is one of the top diseases that can occur from giving into this temptation.  For the sake of your Pomeranian's health, stick to specialized dog food.   Dry dog food is recommended to aid in keeping the Pomeranian's teeth and gums healthy.  

For Pomeranian puppies, it is preferable to feed it well-balanced meals in small portions.  Diarrhea (see: Common Health Issues) can occur if you do not provide your Pomeranian with a carefully chosen dog food.  Adding supplements to your Pomeranian's  food will improve the coat of your dog. Supplements will also add essential vitamins and minerals that can actually extend the life of your Pomeranian.   

You should always keep a fresh supply of water and food for your Pomeranian, as some toy dogs can quickly get low blood sugar.

It is extremely important to choose high quality dog food, specifically for toy dogs.   Just as a person would not benefit from eating junk food as a regular source of nutrition, it is important to ensure that your dog is being fed properly. Some of the best dog food are not found in your local grocery store. 

General food stores or local pet stores often stock "generic" dog food, which may not be the best choice for your lovable dog.  You may feel it is easier to simply buy your dog's food, when you are purchasing your own.  However, if you wish to look into the option of providing your dog with the best diet available, we have addded some  links where you will find healthy, top-quality nourishing dog food.


One of your choices to buying quality and healthy dog food is " Pet Care Central".  They have a wide variety of food to keep your Pomeranian healthy and also offer a lot of other pet products.  Another great choice is "SmartPak" dog food, they offer very healthy unique dog food for every different breed of dog, as well as just about every type of dog product you would need.  Below are the links, if you wish to browse through. 
 

GROOMING:

Pomeranians are sometimes called "Puffballs with feet" and require careful grooming.  Poms do not need as much grooming as some other long haired dogs, however you should brush your Pom two or three times a week. 

Be prepared to do extra brushing when the dog is shedding (see Shedding).  This toy dog's coat should not be brushed when it is dry.  It is best to mist the coat with a bit of water first.  If you desire, you may add a bit of conditioner to the water, as well.  A bristle or a pin brush is recommended for a Pomeranian.   

All loose hair must be removed or the Pomeranian's may get matts which would then need to be removed by clipping.  In the case of pet Pomeranians, for the purpose of cleanliness, it is recommended to clip the hair around the Pom's anus.  When brushing your pet, make sure to pay attention to the area behind the ears and the groin area, as these areas are prone to knots and tangles.  

It is important to lift and part the overcoat and brush the fluffy undercoat, as it will reduce shedding of this toy dog.  
Obviously, keeping your pet free from external and internal parasites is an absolute must!  Fleas will cause your Pom to scratch and bite at his/her coat .  Ear mites will cause your pet to scratch at his/her ears, which will cause the hair in that area to matt very quickly.

 
You should bath your Pomeranian on a regular basis.  It is very important to wash your Pom often because dirt and dust are abrasive to it's coat.   Show dogs should be bathed weekly and at four to six week intervals during winter months.  Bathing is helpful in stopping many of the skin irritations that Poms can have.   It is recommended that show dogs be bathes two to three days before a show.  

The use of talcum powder on Pomeranians should be done very sparingly. 
Nails should be kept as short as possible on this toy dog. Trimming should be done at least every three months. 

 If your pet has any unremoved dewclaws, keep those trimmed short also.   If nails are not trimmed regularly, they will become overgrown and continue to grow inside the dog's flesh.  This is a problem that will cause your dog to need to be operated on, and it can be avoided by doing the trimming routines. 
 

SHEDDING:
 

Pomeranians have two coats of hair, an undercoat and a top coat.  The undercoat is soft, thick and fluffy.  The Pom's overcoat is long, and straight.  Pomeranians go through a period which is called "puppies uglies", this stage happens betweeen the ages of five to 6 months. 

During this time, your pet is going through it's "adolescence".  This is a naturally occuring event and is nothing to be alarmed about.  When your Pomeranian reaches the approximate age of eight to ten months, it will have grown a beautiful  new coat.  At the one year mark, Pomeranians have the shed of their first adult coat. 

Once your dog is an adult the details of the shedding process are vastly different, depending if you have a male or a female Pom.

Males:  Once reaching 18 months of age, a male Pom's coat will stay relatively the same for it's life.

Females:  Hormonal changes and the change of seasons greatly affect a female Pomeranian's coat. 

Female Pomeranians will also shed after delivering a litter ( an average size litter is 1 - 3 pups, however it can reach the size of 7) and her coat will regrow back in about six months.  She will also shed when she is in season, and also if the dog is under stress.  
Males and Females:
 

If your Pomeranian has any anesthetics, it will dramatically affect his/her coat. 
Obviously, you want your toy dog to be as healthy as possible. Keeping your dog happy and healthy is essential. Your Pomeranian (or other dog ) relies on you to keep them clean, active, provide amusement and a comfortable living environment, as in the picture below!
 

 

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