Pomeranian

Unlikely as it may seem, the Pomeranian dog breed (or 'Poms') is almost certainly descended from the sledge-pulling dogs of the Arctic and are probably related to the Keeshond, Norwegian Elkhound, and the Samoyed. This small pet dog was intentionally bred through progressive size reduction, although when they arrived in the UK with German-born Queen Charlotte, they were very different from the Poms we know today — being white and much larger (9-14 kgs).  

They soon became popular, especially with royalty, so when Queen Victoria visited Florence and saw much smaller variations of the breed there, she brought them home with her. The Queen went on to breed them and showed them at Crufts in 1891 where (not surprisingly!) she won best of breed. In the years that followed her death in 1901, selective breeding for a smaller size continued, until the tiny dog we know today was developed, and the larger sizes vanished entirely from the UK. 

If you need a bright, sparky character in your life, are available for short walks, lots of cuddles and capable of daily grooming, you could be the Pomeranian’s ideal owner. This breed benefits from both basic training for manners and also some fun, trick training and puzzle solving games, or they can get bored and a bored Pom is a barky Pom! Although the grooming commitment is significant, as Poms will mat severely and very quickly, they make an excellent and fun companion, in a small and very economical package. Better for families with sensible/older children or child-free homes.

Pomeranians are very undemanding in their exercise requirements and are quite happy with short daily walks or a run in the garden with their owners. If kept fit and active however they can enjoy much longer walks. Their primary focus is social contact with their owner but as a descendant of working breeds, they do enjoy interactive enrichment games to keep their busy mind occupied and to stop them getting bored and overly noisy. 

Pomeranians can live in just about any home as they do not need much space. They do need access to outdoor spaces for daily walks and toileting (especially as to successfully toilet train them, you do need to be able to get them out very frequently). 

So, regardless of your lifestyle and living situation, a Pomeranian will always feel at home no matter the amount of space. Even if you don’t have a big yard they can run in, as long as you commit to taking them out for walks a few times a day, they will be content and appreciative. 

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. 

When based on a good diet and regular exercise, the average Pomeranian lifespan can reach 16 years and there have even been reports of Poms living for more than 20 years. 

For a tiny dog, the Pom has a huge coat with a thick undercoat. They will benefit from a daily groom but certainly, Pomeranian grooming should be done twice a week to prevent matting and keep them healthy. The coat can be easily damaged by fine combs or harsh brushes, so a wide toothed comb is ideal. Occasional trimming is required around the feet. 

It’s easy to underestimate these tiny dogs but they are surprisingly trainable and enjoy working with their owner. Poms have been known to compete successfully in mini agility, as well as learn all kinds of tricks. At the least they should be taught to walk on a harness and have a good recall (not that they generally go far from their owner). Like many toy breeds, expect toilet training to take far longer than in larger breeds. 

Although the Pom is friendly and gets on with everyone, they are too delicate for active or boisterous young families. They will do well in a family of older sensible children however. 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together, and adults should supervise all interactions between them. 

Pomeranians make great pets as they are very playful, intelligent, eager to please, and love attention.

Yes, Pomeranians have a tendency to bark often.

Yes, Pomeranians can be calm and easy-going, especially as they get older.

Among many other things, it’s important to be aware of the fact that Pomeranians are highly energetic and very adventurous so as an owner, you’ll have to invest a lot of time and effort in just keeping up with them.