Pomeranian: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Pomeranian temperament and personality

The AKC describes Pomeranians as jubilant, curious and intelligent, lively, affectionate and friendly. VCA calls them lively, bold and spunky, and notes they tend to be one-family dogs that can be aloof with strangers, so early socialization helps.

Poms are alert little watchdogs and many bark readily, which VCA says should be discouraged early. They are confident far beyond their size, which is charming at home and a hazard around big dogs. Most are devoted companions that like to be close to their person.

How big do Pomeranians get?

The AKC says Pomeranians stand 6 to 7 inches tall and weigh no more than 7 pounds, and the breed standard sets weight at 3 to 7 pounds for males and females alike, with 4 to 6 pounds ideal for show dogs. VCA lists the same weight and a height of 8 to 11 inches.

The coat makes a Pom look much bigger than it is. Feel for the ribs and spine through the fluff rather than judging by eye. VCA notes Poms can gain weight quickly from overfeeding, and even half a pound matters at this size.

Pomeranian lifespan and common health issues

VCA gives a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. It says dental disease is common and recommends regular tooth brushing, notes that very small puppies are prone to low blood sugar and should be fed often, and warns that their small size makes them vulnerable to cold.

Ask a breeder about knee and eye checks on the parents and how they select for sound knees and healthy teeth. Ask your vet to check the teeth at every visit. A honking cough, weakness or trembling in a young puppy, or a sudden limp needs a vet promptly.

Exercise needs

VCA suggests a daily walk around the block plus indoor games and outdoor sniffing for mental stimulation. The AKC says Poms enjoy short walks, runs and outdoor play. Their exercise needs are easy to meet in a small home.

VCA advises against dog parks unless they admit only small dogs. Use a harness rather than a collar, carry the dog away from large off-leash dogs, and put a sweater on it in cold weather.

Pomeranian grooming and shedding

The double coat is the main job. VCA recommends brushing and combing about twice a week to prevent matting, more during heavy shedding, and rates shedding as above average. The AKC says the coat needs frequent brushing and recommends a professional groomer every four to six weeks.

Brush in layers, lifting the coat and working down to the skin with a pin brush and a fine-tooth grooming comb. VCA also says to check the hair around the rear daily for hygiene and to brush the teeth regularly. Keep nails short, which the AKC notes active Poms need trimmed regularly.

Training a Pomeranian

The AKC says Poms are intelligent but need patient, consistent training, that positive reinforcement works best and that house training can be difficult. VCA agrees they learn quickly but can be stubborn, and that reward-based training with food or games works best.

Use a crate and a strict potty schedule, and consider an indoor potty spot for very cold days. The AKC advises early leash training and recall work. Teach a quiet cue early, and reward calm behavior at the door.

Are Pomeranians good with kids and other pets?

The AKC says Poms suit families with older children who can tell a small dog apart from a toy, and VCA says they are playful with children but need supervision because they are easily injured. A fall from arm height can break a leg.

The AKC says Poms can get along well with other animals, especially with early socialization, while VCA warns some can be cocky or aggressive toward other dogs. Supervise meetings with bigger dogs closely.

What a Pomeranian needs at home

Keep a pin brush, a slicker brush, a wide-toothed comb, ear cleaner, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush on hand, and budget for a professional groom every four to six weeks. Grooming wipes help with daily hygiene.

For daily life, a small crate, a soft bed, a lightweight mesh harness and leash, a sweater for cold walks, and ramps or steps so the dog is not jumping off furniture cover the basics. Puzzle toys help on rainy days. Ask your vet about a dental routine early.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.