Pomeranian Dog
The Pomeranian (often known as a Pom, or more humorously, Pom Pom) is a breed of dog of the Spitz type, named for the Pomerania region in Central Europe (today part of eastern Germany and northern Poland). Classed as a toy dog breed because of its small size, the pomerianian is descended from the larger Spitz type dogs, specifically the German Spitz. It has been determined by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale to be part of the German Spitz breed, and in many countries, they are known as the Zwergspitz (Dwarf Spitz), or Toy German Spitz.
The Pomeranian is a small toy sized dog. The head is wedge-shaped and in proportion with the body. The short muzzle is straight and fine. The stop is well pronounced. The color of the nose varies with coat color. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The almond shaped eyes are dark and medium in size. The small, erect ears are set high. The feathered tail lies straight and flat over the back. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The Pom has a thick, double coat. The outer coat is long straight, and harsh in texture while the undercoat is soft, thick and short. The coat is longer around the neck and chest area. Comes in a variety of coat colors and patterns including red, orange, white, cream, blue, brown, black, black and tan, wolf sable, orange sable, brindle and parti-color, which is white with colored markings.
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.
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.
