About Pomeranians

A History of Pomeranians: From Royal Companions to Beloved Pets

The Pomeranian, a charming and spirited toy breed, has a rich history that traces its origins back to the region of Pomerania, located in present-day Poland and Germany. Over the centuries, these delightful little dogs have evolved from being favored by European royalty to becoming cherished companions worldwide. Let's delve into the captivating history of Pomeranians:

Ancient Roots: The ancestry of Pomeranians can be traced to ancient Spitz-type dogs, which were prevalent in Arctic regions. These early dogs were hardy and well-adapted to cold climates, sporting thick, double coats and fluffy tails to protect them from the harsh weather.

Pomerania: A Breeding Ground: The breed's name "Pomeranian" originated from the region of Pomerania, where they were first documented in the 16th century. Pomerania, a historical territory on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, served as a breeding ground for these dogs, which were larger and more rugged compared to the modern toy-sized Pomeranians we know today.

Royal Favor: The Pomeranian's journey to fame began in the 18th century when Queen Charlotte of England, the wife of King George III, fell in love with a small Pomeranian named "Phoebe" during a visit to the Netherlands. The Queen's fondness for these dogs sparked a trend among European royalty, and Pomeranians quickly gained popularity as royal companions.

Downsizing: Over the following decades, breeders focused on reducing the size of Pomeranians, making them more suitable for a lapdog role. This selective breeding resulted in the smaller, toy-sized Pomeranians that captured the hearts of aristocrats and commoners alike.

Victorian Era: During the Victorian era in the 19th century, Pomeranians became highly fashionable pets among British royalty and aristocracy. Queen Victoria herself was an ardent lover of Pomeranians, and her interest in the breed further elevated its status.

Pomeranians in Art and Pop Culture: Pomeranians continued to be popular throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a favorite subject of artists and appearing in various works of art, literature, and fashion. Their endearing appearance and lively personalities endeared them to people from all walks of life.

Global Spread: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Pomeranians began to spread to other parts of the world, including the United States, where they found an enthusiastic following. Their popularity as pets surged, and they became regular participants in dog shows and competitions.

Modern Pomeranians: Today, Pomeranians continue to be beloved pets and are among the most popular toy breeds worldwide. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and small size make them ideal companions for various households, including city dwellers and families.

A Timeless Charm: Throughout their history, Pomeranians have retained their irresistible charm and affectionate personalities. From their beginnings as Arctic working dogs to their status as treasured companions, Pomeranians have carved a special place in the hearts of dog lovers everywhere, and their legacy as delightful companions is sure to endure for generations to come.

What To Expect When Caring For a Pomeranian

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails.

Exercise

As much as Pomeranians enjoy being lapdogs and family companions, they do benefit from some exercise and enjoy the chance to run, play, and go for walks. Be sure to keep a close eye on your Pom when he or she is outside. They are notorious for escaping through small crevices or gaps in fencing, or climbing over short fencing. Small breeds like Pomeranians can be mistaken for rabbits or squirrels by large, predatory birds such as hawks and owls, so it is vital to keep a Pom under cover or stay with them at all times. When taking your Pom for a walk, be cautious of your surroundings. Other dogs who are not controlled can easily hurt your Pom.

Grooming

The Pomeranian's profuse double coat is one of his most distinguishing features. Frequent brushing is necessary to maintain the beautiful coat that we admire. Brush through the dog with a pin brush and a slicker brush down to the skin once a week to keep the hair from matting. Pomeranians are active dogs, so it is important that their nails are kept short. It is highly recommended that you find a groomer to do a full groom'¿including bath, brushing, ears, nails, and anal glands'¿every four to six weeks, if you are not comfortable with doing this at home. You should also pay close attention to the Pom's teeth. It is a good idea to brush the teeth during their weekly grooming session.

Training

The Pom should be trained to walk on a leash early on and taught to come when called. Housebreaking can be a challenge, so consistency and patience are key. It is important to keep your Pom from jumping on and off couches or beds, as they can injure joints or even break a bone. Poms are alert and highly intelligent, and they enjoy and can excel in canine activities like agility, rally, and obedience, or working as therapy dogs.

Is a Pomeranian the right choice for your family?