Pomeranian (Zwergspitz)

The Pomeranian Spitz is not only the cutest dog but also the smallest one in the family of Spitz. This fluffy pet is well-known for its tiny size and thick coat. But these are not the basic reasons for «the Loulou» to be loved. This breed is extremely energetic, cocky and intelligent and will be a great family companion.

The Pomeranian Spitz was developed in the Middle Ages in Pomerania, Germany, as a result of crossing small species of German Spitz.

The breed was introduced in England only in the mid of XIXth century. This type of the Spitz became more popular thanks to Queen Victoria, who had imported the whimsical creature from Italy and added it to one of its kennels.

The Pomeranian breed belongs to the family of an ancient group of Arctic Spitz dogs, the progenitors to the sled ones. Earlier, these little dogs were of white colour and not this little as now, weighing approximately 15 kilos. It’s hard to believe, that the Pomeranian was popular as a sheepdog, but in its larger form.

In 1870 the Pomeranian was finally recognized by the English Kennel Club (KC), and only in 1892 it took part in dog shows in the USA under this organisation’s Miscellaneous Class. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1900.

Nowadays, the «puff-ball» dogs are more and more attracting pet fanciers and serve mostly as a toy for a loving family.

The Pomeranian Spitz is lively, brave and always busy. Enjoying life each day to the fullest, seeking for adventures and games, this curious, playful, very self-confident little dog will not let you be bored. «A little body often harbours a great soul» is absolutely about its temperament.

All in all, it’s quite a noisy watchdog. It’s just perfect for the life in a family, especially for one with children of all ages.

A Pomeranian barks a lot and can even attack big dogs, though it’s a friendly and shy breed, as a rule among strangers. Generally, a representative of this breed gets along well with other household animals without problems, in case it’s properly introduced.

The most common problems for the breed include:

• shoulder luxation;
• open fontanel;
• hypoglycemia;
• PRA (progressive retinal atrophy).

The Pomeranian Spitz requires a lot of grooming. Its double coat needs brushing at least two times a week or even more frequently during shedding periods. Remember, you should not bathe your dog too often, since there’s not much oil on its coat. One time in two or three months is perfect, ones a half of a year is a minimum.

The Pomeranian Spitz is known to be clever and easy to train. The solution to successfully train your Pomeranian is to start it early on and keep up a prepared and planned training program. The fact remains that this breed as well as others requires obedience training to be well behaved.

You must be alert, attentive and consistent during the process and don’t expect your pet to housetrain itself. If you are going to take your dog for a show, don’t forget to be always in sight during the training, otherwise the whole house will be brought down with its barking.

Socialization works on the same principle – the earlier you start it, the better. Walking in a dog park is a good opportunity to develop interactional skills with people and other dogs, inducing anxiety.

The Pomeranian Spitz, unlike most other toys, needs rather big amount of exercises daily. Such a tiny little thing and such great amount of energy, which needs to be pent-up! Although the breed is an indoor admirer, one short walk a day is important anyway.

Aside from walking, remember about other types of exercise, such as playing fetch, running through small tunnels and so on. Just be inventive and careful to not injure the knees or hips.