Meet the Breed: Pomeranians

Ancestry plays a big part in this small breed's big personality. As descendants of larger breeds including Siberian huskies, among others, Pomeranians originally weighed in at 30 pounds and were always white. Today, Pomeranians are seen in a variety of colors and make excellent lap dogs, weighing in at 3 to 7 pounds. Known for having a lot of energy, Pomeranians require daily exercise and playtime to stay happy and entertained. These little guys are known for having a lot to bark about, so pet owners looking for a quiet companion might want to opt for a different breed.

When it comes to this breed, it's all about the hair. These petite partners are known for big, full and spunky hair, fit to match their equally boisterous personalities. Pampering a Pomeranian with weekly brushing and frequent trips to the groomer is a must. Their thick and fluffy hair can easily tangle without proper care. Potential owners should be ready to love being surrounded by luscious locks of Pomeranian fur, as this breed is very prone to shedding.

These loving companions have an average life expectancy of about 15 years. While they are a typically healthy breed, there are a few health concerns to keep an eye out for. Pomeranians can suffer from dislocated kneecaps and tooth decay. It is recommended that owners of this breed stick to feeding them a dry-food diet to promote healthy teeth and gums. Frequent vet checkups and annual dental screenings are highly recommended.

This happy-go-lucky breed is also highly intelligent. It is always recommended to start training at an early age, but Pomeranians should have no problems catching on to basic training. Many Pom owners choose to take training to the next level and involve their pets in agility training courses, as their quick-witted nature make this breed easy to train.

Pomeranians make excellent companions for all households. Due to their size and frame of Pomeranians, it is important to watch this breed around young children to ensure they are handled properly. Owners of this energetic breed must be able to provide time for daily exercise and playtime. Their pocket-size frames make Pomeranians very suitable for apartment dwellers provided they can get their pets out for frequent walks.

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