Poms 101

Toy group

Fuzzy and fox-faced, the Pomeranian is an active little dog with a big personality. Devoted to their families, these dogs may be protective towards strangers.

Their thick, double coat needs regular, down-to-the skin combing and brushing to avoid matting. As with many double-coated breeds, they shed their downy undercoats twice a year. A trip to the groomer will speed up the “coat blowing” and minimize shedding.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Poms

Foxy, furry breed has spunk and smarts.

The Pomeranian is smart dog and a quick learner. Early manners training and socialization is helpful to keep the Pom from deciding that they, not their families, are in charge.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
6 to 7 inches tall
Group Size Toy
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
020
Weight
4 to 7 lbs
0150

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Mature adult Pom

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Collapsed trachea

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Luxated patella

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Dental disease

Senior Pom

8+ years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Collapsed trachea

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Luxated patella

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Valvular heart disease

Pom puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Gastritis

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Ear infection

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Trauma

Young adult Pom

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Luxated patella

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Collapsed trachea

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Toxicity

Mature adult Pom

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

risk-level-bar

Collapsed trachea

risk-level-bar

Luxated patella

risk-level-bar

Dental disease

Senior Pom

8+ years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

risk-level-bar

Collapsed trachea

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Luxated patella

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Valvular heart disease

Pom puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Gastritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

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Trauma

Young adult Pom

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Pom conditions

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Luxated patella

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Collapsed trachea

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Toxicity

Pom pom GettyImages-499622711

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3-Fun fact Pomeranian GettyImages-157078214

Pomeranians were once favored by royalty, including Queen Victoria of England. Her Pomeranian named Marco had a special water bowl made of pure gold!

Pomeranian coat care and colors

The Pomeranian has a long overcoat and a downy undercoat. Combing down to the skin helps prevent the undercoat from matting into a solid pelt that must be shaved off. A heavy seasonal shedder, the Pom benefits from professional bathing and a “blowout” a couple of times a year to reduce flying fur. The Pomeranian comes in 18 recognized solid colors, although shades of brown from cream to dark chocolate are most commonly seen. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Do Pomeranians shed a lot?

All dogs shed, some a little and some a lot. Pomeranians shed a fair amount, thanks to their double coats. The perception of how much a dog sheds is typically related to how much fur ends up on clothing, furniture and carpets. Double-coated dogs are the biggest shedders, losing fur from both the downy undercoat and the protective overcoat.

How do I get my Pomeranian used to being brushed?

You can get your Pomeranian used to being brushed with praise, small treats and patience. Keep sessions short as your Pom becomes more tolerant.

How often should I brush my Pomeranian?

Frequent brushing reduces shedding, so if that's your goal, brush your Pomeranian every day. Because Poms are double-coated, it's important to use a comb that reaches down the skin to remove any mats in the Pomeranian's downy undercoat.

Pom exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

Intelligent, bold and lively, the Pomeranian loves doing things with family. A daily walk and some indoor games and play will keep them in good shape.

Class clown

Trainability

A big dog in a small body, the Pomeranian may consider commands as mere suggestions. Encourage good behavior with praise and tiny treats.

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Pom fun facts

Top girl names for Poms

100%

of Poms are female

0%

of Poms are male

Top boy names for Poms

Nationwide loves Pomeranians of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Poms

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