Dog breed · Toy
Pomeranian
Lively, bold, inquisitive
- Size
- Toy
- Weight
- 1.5–3.5 kg (3–8 lb)
- Height
- 18–24 cm (7–9 in)
- Life span
- 12–16 years
- Origin
- Pomerania (Germany and Poland)
By Maya HartThe coat
Long
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Pomeranians right for you?
You will love
- Copes well in a flat
Be ready for
- Not the easiest match for young children
- Sheds a lot
- Coat needs regular grooming
- Barks or howls a lot
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Pomeranians weigh 1.5–3.5 kg (3–8 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a miniature spitz descended from much larger sled-pulling dogs, and still behaves as if it hasn’t been told. Poms are bright, confident and eager to be involved in everything, which makes them good at tricks — and at barking.
Their tiny size makes them fragile around rough play and young children. The thick double coat should never be shaved, as it may not grow back properly. Small mouths crowd the teeth, so daily brushing is one of the best things you can do for a Pomeranian’s long-term health.
Health to know about
- Luxating patella
- Tracheal collapse
- Alopecia X (coat loss)
- Dental disease
- Heart defects such as patent ductus arteriosus
Care in short
- Brush two or three times a week down to the skin
- Daily tooth brushing
- Use a harness rather than a collar
- Teach a "quiet" cue early
Kit for a Pomeranian
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Best for heavy shedders
Deshedding tool with ejector
4.7Reaches the undercoat that causes most of the hair on the sofa.
- Several blade widths
- Use weekly, gently
Best everyday brush
Self-cleaning slicker brush
4.6Fine bent wires lift loose undercoat; a button pushes the hair off.
- Quick to clean
- Suits most medium and long coats
Best for long coats
Pin brush and comb set
4.5Pins get through a thick coat; the comb finds the knots it missed.
- Gentle rounded pins
- Comb has two tooth widths
Similar breeds
Questions owners ask
How big does a Pomeranian get?
Adults usually weigh 1.5–3.5 kg (3–8 lb) and stand 18–24 cm (7–9 in) tall.
How long do Pomeranians live?
Typically 12–16 years.
Are Pomeranians good with children?
Need careful introductions (2 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Pomeranians shed?
Quite a lot — expect hair on furniture.
What health problems are Pomeranians prone to?
Luxating patella; Tracheal collapse; Alopecia X (coat loss); Dental disease; Heart defects such as patent ductus arteriosus.
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts