Pomeranian Frequently Asked Questions

What health issues do Pomeranians suffer from?

Although small in stature, the Pomeranian dog breed isgenerally known to be healthybut there are some health issues that do affect them some of which are detailed below:

• Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia (SM)
• Luxating patella
• Tracheal collapse
• Insufficient closure of the fontanel
• Dental issues
• Broken bones – more especially a dog's front legs
• Cataracts
• Distichiasis
• Hypothyroidism
• Alopecia X – black skin disease – a rarer disorder

Is a Pomeranian intelligent?

Poms are extremely intelligent and learn new things quickly, the bad news being they learn bad habits just as quickly as they do the good. In the right environment and with correct handling, Poms are easy to train and they are always eager to learn. They can be a bit unpredictable though which makes it harder to know how they could react to anything or to people they don’t already know. Poms must be taught their place in the “pack” and who is alpha dog in a household or they may take on the role of dominant dog.

What is the normal temperature for a Pomeranian?

Poms are small and therefore they are more likely to suffer heatstroke during the hotter summer months. Their normal body temperature is about 101 degrees F and even the smallest increase can see Poms overheating which could prove life threatening for these little dogs.

How many hours do Pom puppies need to sleep?

Pomeranian puppies need to sleep anything from 18 to 20 hours a day which they need to do so they develop and grow as they should. However, when they are awake they are extremely active but this only lasts in short bursts. As they mature, Poms sleep less which is when they are around 1 year old and will sleep anything from 7 to 8+ hours a day.

Do Pomeranians shed a lot?

Poms shed steadily throughout the year more especially as most households are centrally heated these days. However, they do shed the most in the spring and then again in the autumn when more frequent brushing helps keep their coats tidy and ensures less shed hair is left around the home.

Do Poms suffer from separation anxiety?

Poms thrive on human company and hate it when they are left on their own for long periods of time which is why they are better suited to people who work from home or in households where one person is usually around when everyone else is out. If left to their own devices, these clever little dogs quickly find ways to keep themselves occupied which could see them being destructive around the home and barking incessantly to get some attention.

Are Pomeranians really aggressive?

Pomeranians when well socialised and nicely handled from a young enough age do not grow up to be aggressive more especially as they are descendants of good-natured and gently Spitz dogs that were used to pull sleds and work alongside man. With this said, if not well socialised and introduced to lots of new people, animals and situations, a Pom may show a more aggressive side to their natures when confronted with unfamiliar things bearing in mind that they do not realise how small they really are.

How much does a Pomeranian puppy cost?

Pomeranians are one of the most popular breeds in the UK and elsewhere in the world because they are such good companions and family pets. According to our Pets4Homes statistics, well-bred, Kennel Club registered Pomeranian puppies can command over £1,400 and non-registered puppies can cost up to £900. Litters tend to be small with some Poms only having one puppy whereas others may have three which is one of the reasons why they are so expensive.

Do Poms bark a lot?

Poms make wonderful watchdogs because they are always on the alert and will bark when they hear any strange and unfamiliar noises. However, this means they are also known to be “barkers” and some Poms will voice an opinion for the sake of it which is something that needs to be gently curbed when they are still young and before it becomes a real problem. The good news being that because Poms are so smart, they can be taught not to bark for no reason.

Does a Pomeranian’s coat need trimming?

Poms have lovely, thick double coats but they do not need to be trimmed or stripped. They do need to be regularly brushed to prevent any mats and tangles from forming though and it keeps things nice and tidy. Poms enjoy being groomed because they like the one-to-one they are given when they are being brushed.