If you've ever seen a Pomeranian trotting down the street on their four legs with that much confidence and self-importance, you'll understand why so many families fall completely in love with these dogs. They're simply too tiny, too ridiculous and utterly, completely, irresistibly full of themselves.
We've received a few questions about the experience of owning a Pomeranian lately, so I thought I'd put together a guide for prospective Pom parents (well, a little less of a guide and more of a little discussion - because I suppose it's unavoidable with this particular breed). Whether you're considering getting a Pomeranian or you just saw one in a cute Instagram photo, I've been there.
They Think They're a Big Dog. A Very Big Dog.
The first thing you need to know about Pomeranians is that nobody told them they weigh under three kilograms. They have the confidence of a Rottweiler but weigh less than a loaf of bread. They will challenge a Labrador for dominance in the living room. They will bark at the postman like he's with armed forces invading Buckingham Palace. They will take the sofa and look uncomfortable when you try to sit down.
It's one of the things that makes them so entertaining to live with. There's never a dull moment.
The Coat: Gorgeous, But Commitment Required
Let's be real about the Pomeranian's absolutely spectacular double coat. From the fluffy mane to the face of a fox, these little dogs have cloud-puff haunches and are beautiful dogs.
But with such beauty, there is a price to pay.
Poms are big shedders. You will find fluff on your sofa, your clothes, your dinner, probably your soul. They need brushing at least a few times a week to keep the coat in good condition and prevent matting, and most owners find a good slicker brush is their best friend. Many also take their Poms to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks for a tidy-up - particularly around the ears and paws.
And once a year (sometimes twice for unneutered dogs), they'll blow their entire undercoat in a process that is as dramatic as it sounds. For a couple of weeks, you will question every life decision that led you here. Then it'll be over, and you'll look at their fluffy little face and forget it all.
They Are Incredibly Smart - and They Know It
Pomeranians are quick learners. They learn the commands quickly and respond brilliantly to positive reinforcement as they genuinely enjoy training their Pomeranians for variety of reasons - they love the mental stimulation as well as the attention from their owners.
The flipside of this is that they're also excellent at training you. If you let them, a Pom will have you figured out within the first week. They'll know which look gets them an extra treat, which whine gets them lifted onto the sofa, and exactly how long they can bark before you cave. Consistency is everything with this breed. Start as you mean to go on, and early socialisation is a must - especially with children and other pets.
They Are Brilliant Family Dogs (With a Few Caveats)
Pomeranians are fiercely loyal to their people. These dogs are very affectionate and happiest when they're a part of all that's going on in the home. Unlike other breeds, they don't require as much exercise to keep them content. A few walks and some indoor play will keep them happy. Pomeranians are a breed that does well in smaller homes and those with young families.
Due to the breed's small size, Pomeranians can be easily hurt by young children with rough play with their puppy. They do best with older children who understand the need to be gentle around these little dogs. However, if raised alongside young children from a young age, they can become wonderful companions to young families.
The Noise Factor
I'd be doing you a disservice if I didn't mention: Pomeranians like to talk.
They are alert, curious little dogs with a lot of opinions about the world - and what it throws at them. While they may be entertaining in your living room when company comes over, they may bark at the postman, the cat down the road, or nothing at all. This is something to consider if you live in a flat with thin walls. Much of the excessive barking can be controlled through training pups when they are young, though some Poms are naturally more vocal than others.
Health: A Generally Hardy Breed
On the whole, Pomeranians are pretty healthy little dogs with a lifespan of around 12-16 years. Like most small breeds, they can be prone to dental problems (those tiny mouths get crowded), luxating patella (a slipping kneecap condition common in small dogs), and tracheal issues - which is why most owners use a harness rather than a collar for walks.
Regular vet check-ups, good dental care, and keeping an eye on their weight (they can easily become overweight if treats get out of hand - and they will work the treats) go a long way.
Finding Your Pomeranian: Get It Right From the Start
If you're serious about getting a Pom, the very first thing that you should do is find a responsible breeder of Pomeranian puppies. This will make a huge difference to the health and temperament of your dog.
Good breeders will health test their puppies, raise them in a home, and ask questions of prospective owners to ensure that they are interested in finding a home for their puppies as much as you are in finding the perfect Pom for your family. Bad breeders will offer their puppies up for purchase immediately without asking any questions and will offer very low prices.
So, Is a Pomeranian Right for You?
If you want a dog that is:
- Compact and well-suited to smaller homes
- Full of personality and endlessly entertaining
- Affectionate and devoted to their family
- Bright, trainable, and always up for a bit of fun
...then a Pomeranian might just be your perfect match.
If you are not prepared for:
- Regular grooming (and the annual coat-blow)
- A dog with very strong opinions about everything
- Dog hair on absolutely everything you own
...then it might be worth considering a different breed.
But honestly? Most Pom owners will tell you that they couldn't imagine their life without one of these adorable breeds. Once you've had a Pom, no other breed will ever measure up to the delight that a Pomeranian can provide to a dog lover. There's something special about these little dogs and their massive personalities - something that gets under your skin, nevertheless, in the best possible way.
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