Group(s): Toy Height: 8-11 inches

Weight: ideally 4-7 pounds, there is no teacup variety Longevity: 14-20 years is not uncommon

Colors: organge, red, white, black, blue, brown, beaver with tan or cream points, brindle also wolf sable and particolors Coat type: soft dense undercoat and long, straight topcoat

Recognized Registries: AKC, NCA, UKC, CKC, FCI, KC and others

Overall Appearance: Compact, jaunty Nordic breed, the Pomeranian's tail lies over its back and helps create (along with a correct proportion of leg to back length) a decidedly triangular appearance. Unquestionably of Spitz descent, he is truly a toy version with an exceptionally profuse coat.

Personaility - Behavior - Training

Energy Level: moderate to high

General Nature: active, alert, self assured

  with Children: can be intimidated by rough, boisterous and inconsiderate people of any age

  with other pets: generally good

  with dogs: generally good but with a fearless nature that could get him in trouble with larger dogs

Socialization requirements: moderate: without proper socialization the Pom can become anxious and lacking in confidence

Ideal home characteristics: developed as a companion dog, this is not an ideal companion for the household that has no one home during the day, otherwise very adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyles with heavy travel, apartment life, etc.

Temperament Notes: intelligent, jaunty, joyful, playful and tenacious

Training requirement: moderate: an inappropriately handled Pom can be a tyrant or a bundle of anxiety

Trainer notes: Care must always be taken to handle breeds of this diminutive stature with respect.  A drop or jump of even 12 inches can result in serious injury.  A Pom that lacks trust due to inexperience, lack of socialization or other causes can be difficult to handle but often can be brought around with patience and knowledge.  They are a joy to work with as a close partner but do require a trainer with some understanding of small dog techniques.  Proper socialization at an early age will guarantee the development of a confident dog that can be a joy to live with for a lifetime.

Background Information

Year range of first recognition: at current size, mid-late 1800s

Country of Origin: Germany/Britain

Original Function: ancester was nordic sled dog but the Pomeranian was developed as a companion

History: Developed in Germany in the 1700 and 1800s, they came to Britain and became the fancy of Queen Victoria. At the time, weighing around 30 pounds, a number of the Pom Clubs appealed for a reduction in the standard, which took it to 7 pounds.

Adoption Information

Deviations from Standard: oversized, undersized, loss of correct head (stop), eye shape (should be almond but will be round in poorer specimens)

Health Notes: patellar luxation, eye problems, poor dentition

Health Testing: OFA, CERF