Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is the smallest of the Spitz breeds (‘Spitz’ is German for “sharp point”, referring to the distinctive nose and muzzle). Its ancestors were large working Spitz-type sled dogs from the Arctic regions. It is named after the region of Pomerania that is now part of northern Poland and eastern Germany, which is credited with developing the Pomeranian into a smaller dog than its burlier and stronger Arctic cousins.

A long-time favourite of royalty, two Pomeranians were brought to England in 1767 by Queen Charlotte and King George III. Paintings of the dog in this period show a noticeably larger type (weighing between 14-23 kg) than the dog of today.

Queen Victoria, however, is credited with the surge in popularity of the breed. During her 64 year reign, she bred more than 15 different breeds of dogs, and in her later years fell in love with the Pomeranian while visiting Florence, Italy, returning to Britain with Pomeranians in tow. She owned a particularly small Pomeranian and began importing other small Pomeranians to add to her breeding program. In fact, she is credited with the resulting 50% decrease in breed size during her time. Her contemporaries King George IV and the wife of Napoleon I were both Pomeranian owners.

The earliest known Pomeranian brought to Australia was a chocolate-coloured dog in 1910. However, an 1879 advertisement offers a reward for the return of a white Pomeranian to Melbourne, so it is possible that the dogs have been in Australia since the 19^th century.

Pomeranians make great companions for the elderly people and people who live in apartments as they are very active indoors, especially when given toys. However, as much as they enjoy being lapdogs, Poms will benefit greatly from some outdoor exercise and the chance to run, play and go for walks.

Short walks every day and lots of adventures are first prize for this little ball of energy. Poms expect your genuine interest not just ball throwing at the park – when you engage with them, they want your full attention.

Always keep a close eye on your Pom when he or she is outside; they are notorious escape artists. Additionally, small breeds like Pomeranians can be mistaken for prey by large, predatory birds, and unrestrained dogs can easily hurt them.

Pomeranians are easily trained and make fine watchdogs. They will master tricks and games with ease, though their favourite activity is providing laughs and companionship to their special human.

As they are very intelligent, alert dogs who are eager to learn, they can be taught many tricks. Training them is a great way to stimulate them mentally, which is just as important for Poms as physical activity. Poms enjoy and can excel in canine activities like agility, rally, and obedience, or working as therapy dogs. Loyal to their owners, they will alert of intruders and make good watchdogs.

The Pomeranian’s profuse double coat requires frequent brushing to maintain its beautiful appearance. You should brush through with a pin brush and a slicker brush down to the skin once a week to keep the hair from matting.

If you are unable to do it yourself, it is highly recommended that you find a groomer to do a full groom, including bath, brushing, ears, nails, and anal glands, every four to six weeks.