The Pomeranian, a toy breed in the spitz family, originated in the Pomerania region of Poland and East Germany. Known for its small size, this dog typically weighs between 3 to 7 pounds (1.4 to 3.2 kg). Its wedge-shaped head and small, pointed ears give the Pomeranian a foxy look, while its high-set, curled tail is a distinctive feature of the breed.
The Pomeranian's crowning glory is its coat, which consists of two layers: a soft, thick undercoat and a long, glistening topcoat that covers the entire body. The topcoat is perfectly straight, and during warm weather, the undercoat is shed. The breed’s coat colours range widely, with 12 combinations, including black, brown, red, orange, cream, blue, white, and various sable and parti-coloured varieties.
Active, intelligent, and courageous, the Pomeranian makes a loyal and spirited companion. Though affectionate, they may not always do well with very young children, as their small size can make them vulnerable to rough handling. Poms adapt well to city life, but with their strong hunting instincts, they’re equally suited to a more rural setting.
This small, vibrant dog has an interesting history. Originating from the sled dogs of Iceland and Lapland, the Pomeranian was eventually bred down in size for more compact living. Originally larger, the breed was refined in Germany and reached England where it became smaller but retained its thick coat. Queen Victoria’s fondness for Pomeranians, especially her pet Marco, greatly influenced the breed's popularity, cementing it as a cherished companion.
Today, the Pomeranian remains beloved worldwide. Closely related to other spitz breeds, like the Samoyed and Schipperke, Pomeranians are generally hardy and healthy, with many living up to 15 or 16 years. This loyal, lively breed continues to charm with its intelligence, vibrant personality, and distinctive fluffy coat.