Pomeranian
Active Apartment-friendly Companion Extroverted Friendly Great with kids High energy dog Intelligent Loves hot weather Playful Sheds a lot Sociable Toy

Pomeranian

Pomeranians are small, bright, and loyal dogs with a fearless and lively temperament. Recognizable by their fluffy double coat, foxy face, and alert, prick ears, they are typically 3 to 7 pounds in size. These smart, curious, and playful dogs require regular grooming and socialization. Pomeranians have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years and originate from the Arctic regions and Pomerania in Northern Europe. Prices for Pomeranian puppies can range from $500 to $10,000, depending on lineage and pedigree.

Height 8 - 12 in (20 - 30 cm)
Weight 3 - 7 lbs (1 - 3 kg)
Lifespan 15 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Pomeranian Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Breed Characteristics

The majority of sources suggest that Pomeranians require around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day, with some recommending two walks per day. The consensus leans towards a moderate amount of exercise for this breed.

How much exercise does Pomeranian need?

Low High
The majority of sources recommend regular grooming for Pomeranians, including brushing multiple times per week, bathing, nail trims, and ear cleaning. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is also suggested. Some sources even recommend grooming daily or every other day, depending on shedding and coat condition.

How much grooming does Pomeranian need?

Low High
Pomeranians are generally considered intelligent and easy to train based on the majority of the sources provided, with some mentioning the need for patience and consistency.

Is Pomeranian easy to train?

Low High
Pomeranians are consistently described as intelligent, ranking high in obedience and working smarts. They are known to learn new commands quickly and excel in various activities. While they may have a small independent streak, they are still considered very intelligent and capable of learning tricks and commands efficiently.

How intelligent is Pomeranian?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while Pomeranians have a tendency to bark due to their watchdog instincts, not all Pomeranians bark excessively. Proper training and understanding their triggers can help manage their barking behavior.

Does Pomeranian bark a lot?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while Pomeranians can be eager to please and trainable, they also have a tendency to be independent thinkers and stubborn at times. The majority of sources highlight their intelligence but also mention their stubbornness, which suggests a high likelihood of Pomeranians exhibiting stubborn behavior.

Is Pomeranian stubborn or independent?

Low High
The majority of sources suggest that a Pomeranian needs around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily, with an average of 50 minutes. This aligns with the consensus of the information provided.

How much playtime does a Pomeranian need daily?

Low High
The majority of sources suggest that Pomeranians can stay indoors with limited walks, as they can be sufficiently exercised with indoor play and short walks. While some recommend at least two walks per day, others mention that they do well with short walks and most outdoor activities. The consensus is that Pomeranians are content in various living environments and can thrive with companionship indoors.

Can Pomeranian stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Pomeranians can be territorial and protective of their owners, even though they are small in size. While they may not be the most protective breed overall, they are known to exhibit protective behavior and loyalty towards their families.

Is Pomeranian protective or territorial?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Pomeranians are generally affectionate with their family, enjoying cuddles and spending time with their owners. While they may bond closely with one particular family member, they are known for their loyalty and playfulness, making them a popular choice for families.

Is Pomeranian affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Pomeranian prone to allergies?

Pomeranians are prone to skin allergies, which can manifest as red, itchy hot spots, bumps, and hair loss. These allergies can be triggered by food, contact allergens such as shampoo or laundry detergent, and environmental seasonal allergens. Pomeranians are not hypoallergenic and are considered moderate shedders, making them potentially problematic for allergy sufferers. While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds may cause fewer issues for allergy sufferers. It is important to be aware of potential health issues like collapsing trachea, to which Pomeranians are genetically predisposed. Allergies are common in Pomeranians, and symptoms like itchiness and sneezing may indicate an allergic reaction.


Is Pomeranian a hypoallergenic breed?

Pomeranians are not considered hypoallergenic, as they are moderate shedders and may not be suitable for individuals with allergies. While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, Pomeranians are not known to be less likely to trigger allergic reactions. It is important to note that Pomeranians require regular grooming and maintenance due to their coat type, which can contribute to allergen exposure. Overall, Pomeranians are not recommended for those with allergies, as they are not classified as hypoallergenic dogs.


What are common health issues in Pomeranian?

Common health issues in Pomeranians include collapsed trachea, patella luxation, hypoglycemia, reverse sneezing, cataracts, distichiasis, and black skin disease. Tracheal collapse and dental issues are frequently mentioned as common health concerns for this breed. Other notable health issues include hair loss syndrome, hypothyroidism, Cushing's Disease, obesity, and hypothyroidism. Additionally, Pomeranians are prone to conditions such as elbow dysplasia, Chiari-like malformation/syringomyelia, and coat loss. Hypothyroidism is a prevalent issue in Pomeranians, leading to symptoms like dry skin and coat, and hair loss. Overall, Pomeranians are generally sturdy small dogs, but owners should be aware of these common health issues to ensure their well-being.


How often should a Pomeranian visit the vet?

Pomeranians should visit the vet for a complete check-up at least once a year, regardless of age, to ensure their overall health and wellness. Puppies require more frequent visits for vaccinations, typically every three to four weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. Adult Pomeranians should have an annual wellness exam to monitor their teeth, ears, and general physical condition. Seniors may benefit from twice-yearly visits to address any age-related health concerns. It is important to contact the vet if any changes in the dog's eyes or health are noticed.


What is the average vet bill for a Pomeranian?

The average vet bill for a Pomeranian can vary depending on the specific services required and location, with routine visits typically costing between $50 to $250. Emergency veterinary visits can add up even more. Common expenses for Pomeranian healthcare include annual check-ups ranging from $50 to $100, spaying or neutering costing between $100 and $250, and dental cleanings priced between $150 to $500. Overall, healthcare costs for a Pomeranian can range from $2,000 to $6,200, while food expenses may be between $75 to $180, and grooming and maintenance costs can amount to $1,200 to $4,800. Additionally, unexpected vet bills can potentially reach hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Adoption costs for a Pomeranian typically fall between $100 and $300, with surgery expenses averaging between $100 and $500. The lifetime cost of care for illnesses and injuries may vary, with micro or teacup Pomeranians potentially costing around $1,800 on average.


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