AKC Ranking: 13
Family: spitz, Northern (companion)
Area of Origin: Germany
Date of Origin: 1800s
Original Function: companion
Today's Function: companion
Avg Size of male: Height: 8-11 Weight: 3-7
Avg Size of Female: Height: 8-11 Weight: 3-7
Other Name: none

History
The smallest member of the spitz family, the Pomeranian boasts tough sledding dog ancestors. Exactly when it began to be bred down in size is not known; nor is it known exactly where this miniaturization took place, although Germany, and specifically, Pomerania, is the most likely locale. The breed's likely ancestor was the Deutscher spitz. Only when the breed was taken to England was it dubbed the Pomeranian, but these early dogs were not the "Poms" known today. They weighed as much as 30 pounds and were often white. In fact, the Japanese spitz closely resembles these early Pomeranians and very likely descends from them. Although the Pomeranian was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1870, it was not until Queen Victoria brought a Pomeranian from Italy that its popularity grew. The queen's Pomeranians were rather large gray dogs, and even then most fanciers preferred smaller, more colorful specimens. By 1900, Poms had been recognized by the AKC, and dogs were being shown in both England and America in an array of colors. The Pomeranian has continued to be bred down in size; at the same time, an emphasis on coat has led to its unsurpassed "puffball" appearance. This miniature sled dog always attracts admirers and is a very popular pet and show dog.

Temperament
Bouncy, bold and busy, the Pomeranian makes the most of every day. It is curious, playful, self-confident (even cocky) and attentive, ever ready for a game or adventure. It is reserved toward strangers. Some can be aggressive toward other dogs. Some bark a lot.

Upkeep
The Pomeranian is active but diminutive, needing daily exercise but able to meet its needs with indoor games or short walks. Although it has a warm coat, it is too small and too family-oriented to live as an outdoor dog. Its double coat needs brushing twice weekly, more when shedding.

Health
• Major concerns: patellar luxation
• Minor concerns: open fontanel, hypoglycemia, shoulder luxation, PRA, entropion
• Occasionally seen: tracheal collapse, PDA
• Suggested tests: knee, eye, (cardiac)
• Life span: 12 – 16 years

Form and Function
The Pomeranian is a small, square-proportioned, miniature spitz with a cobby, rounded body. It shares the spitz characteristics of small ears, double coat and curled tail. It has an alert, foxlike expression. Its gait is smooth and free with good reach and drive. The soft thick undercoat combined with the longer harsh outer coat, standing off from the body, combine to give the dog a unique puffy appearance. This look is further accentuated by the thick ruff and a head carriage that is naturally up-gazing.

Related Dogs
American Eskimo Dog (Standard)
Chow Chow
Finnish Spitz
Keeshond
Schipperke
Shiba Inu