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Toy breeds: Pomeranian
Origin
The Pomeranian is the smallest of the Spitz family of dogs and descended from sled dogs in Iceland and Lapland. Its name comes from an area of Germany once known as Pomerania. The dogs were originally much larger and were used as able sheep herders. It is reported that in the middle of the 19th century they weighed about 30 pounds and resembled the German wolf spitz. The breed was imported to England in the 19th century, where it was bred to be smaller.
General description
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Color: There are many colors, and all are acceptable. The most common colors are red, orange, sable, and cream.
Grooming requirements
The Pomeranian's coat is as dense as it appears. To properly brush this little go-getter, you will need to lift the fur gently and brush it with a slicker brush in a teasing manner. This will pull the undercoat free and keep the skin healthy. After you have brushed him thoroughly, you will need to run through the entire length of the body with a metal comb to be sure all excess undercoat has been brushed free. If the comb does catch, you need to go back to the slicker brush and tease free the undercoat.
This little tan ball of fluff can take a considerable amount of time to dry after bathing. Due to the size of the dog, it is best to make sure they stay as warm as possible during this time if you are grooming at home, and the dog is air drying. Always brush you Pom before and after the bath. Conditioning is very important for their skin and should be done with every bath. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also required. Introduce your Pom to nail trims early in life. It is much more difficult to trim the nails of a wiggly small dog than a wiggly big dog due to the lack of body mass, and fear of injuring the dog. Most Poms need their nails trimmed about every two months starting at the age of eight to 12 weeks.
Health considerations
Pomeranians have trouble with the stifle joint (knees), otherwise known as subluxation of the patella. This problem is common in 40 percent of toy dogs. Skin disease (adult onset alopecia) causing loss of hair is not uncommon in the adult Pomeranian.
Breed characteristics and personality
The Pomeranian is difficult to housebreak. Males have a strong libido and tend to want to mark territory. It is recommended that males be neutered early, before 6 months of age.
This tiny dog wouldn't necessarily hurt an intruder, but he does make a good watchdog and will "sound the alarm" at the approach of company. The Pomeranian, in return for his companionship, enjoys extra pampering. The Pomeranian is an extrovert, exhibiting great intelligence and a vivacious spirit.
Uses
It is one of the most popular Toy dogs and is particularly enjoyed by adults who spend a lot of time indoors or are unable to keep a dog that requires plenty of room or exercise. His natural intelligence and wonderful spirit make him a competitive obedience trial show dog.
Web links
AKC Pomeranian page
American Pomeranian Club
Pomeranian Club of Central Indiana
Pomeranian Club of Greater Baltimore
Deleware Valley Pomeranian Club
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