Pomeranian

Updated August 11, 2025

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Pomeranians are bold, curious, and affectionate toy dogs. Despite their small size, they are confident and alert, making them great companions and watchdogs.

Temperament

Alert, Extroverted, Intelligent, Lively, Inquisitive

Weight

3-7 pounds

Height

6-7 inches

Life Expectancy

12-16 years

Coat Color

Orange, Cream, Black, White, Blue, Sable, Red, Chocolate, Beaver

At a Glance

Maintenance Level

4/5

Friendliness

4/5

Energy Level

3/5

Good with Kids

3/5

About Pomeranian

Pomeranians are bold, curious, and affectionate toy dogs. Despite their small size, they are confident and alert, making them great companions and watchdogs.

12-16 years
Lifespan
3-7 pounds
Weight
6-7 inches
Height
3
Energy Level

What Makes Pomeranians Special

Pomeranians are small in size but big in personality. With their bold attitude and fluffy coats, they are both charming and confident.

Often described as a big dog in a small body, they are playful, inquisitive, and thrive on attention.

Pomeranian History & Origin

Pomeranians descend from large sled-pulling Spitz-type dogs and were bred down in size in the Pomerania region of modern-day Poland and Germany.

Queen Victoria popularized the breed in the 19th century, favoring smaller Pomeranians.

They were originally larger and used for herding and guarding before being bred down to a toy size.

Pomeranians are part of the Spitz family, sharing ancestry with breeds like the Samoyed and Keeshond.

Pomeranian Characteristics

Individual Variation

Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Couch Potato Star Athlete

Grooming Needs

Minimal Grooming Extensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal Training Requires a Lot of Training

Health Issues

Few Known Health Issues Many Known Health Issues

Shedding Level

Sheds a Little Sheds a Lot

Pomeranian Appearance

Pomeranians have a fox-like face, erect ears, and a thick, double-layered coat that gives them a puffball appearance.

They carry themselves with confidence and pride, often with a smiling expression and a lively trot.

Physical Features

Ears

Small, triangular, erect, and set high

Eyes

Dark, almond-shaped, and alert

Nose

Black or self-colored depending on coat color

Coat & Build

Coat Length

Long, fluffy, and profuse with a thick undercoat

Coat Color

Available in nearly two dozen colors including orange, cream, black, and sable

Tail

Plumed and carried over the back

Pomeranian Temperament

Pomeranians are lively little dogs with big personalities. They're alert and aware of their surroundings, making them excellent watchdogs despite their size.

They thrive on attention and form strong bonds with their families. While they may be wary of strangers, they are generally outgoing and friendly once they warm up.

These dogs are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes training both fun and essential. Their vocal nature and bold demeanor can be tempered with early socialization.

Because of their compact size, they are perfect for apartment living, though they still need regular walks and playtime.

Their luxurious coat requires routine grooming to avoid tangles and matting, and their expressive faces and sassy attitudes make them social media stars.

Temperament Traits

AlertExtrovertedIntelligentLivelyInquisitive

Good With

FamiliesSinglesOlder ChildrenCatsApartment Dwellers

Health

Generally healthy but prone to small-breed health issues. Lifespan is 12–16 years with proper care.

Common Health Issues

Dental problems due to small jaw structure
Tracheal collapse causing coughing or breathing difficulty
Patellar luxation (knee dislocation)
Hypothyroidism and hair loss (Alopecia X)
Seizures in rare cases

Preventive Care

Annual checkups, dental hygiene, weight management, early diagnosis

How to Care for a Pomeranian

Pomeranians are spirited and low-weight dogs, but they need proper training and grooming to thrive in any environment.

Living Conditions

Space Requirements

Minimal; suitable for small spaces

Climate Adaptability

Prefers cooler weather, avoid overheating

Apartment Living

Excellent apartment dog with daily play

Best Suited For

Great for city living, low-maintenance space needs

Training Tips

Use positive reinforcement and treats
Start socialization early to reduce fear and barking
Keep training sessions short and engaging
Be consistent with rules and routines
Teach commands to manage barking

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialized Care Guides

Puppy Care

Start crate and potty training early, socialize with people and pets

Senior Care

Monitor dental and joint health, shorter walks

First-Time Owner Tips

Good choice if you're attentive and home often