Pomeranian
The Good
- Compact size perfect for Australian apartments
- Active and energetic personality
- Attractive, eye-catching appearance
- Excellent watchdog instincts
The Real
- Requires frequent brushing and grooming
- Can display stubborn behaviour
- Known for being quite vocal
- Delicate bone structure needs careful handling
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Pomeranian is a delightful little character that packs a massive personality into a tiny frame. These fluffy companions are descendants of much larger Arctic sled dogs, but don't let their toy size fool you – they've got the confidence of a German Shepherd and the sass to match!
In Australian homes, Pomeranians make fantastic companions for a variety of living situations. Their compact size means they're perfectly suited to inner-city apartments in Melbourne or Sydney, while their hardy nature lets them enjoy backyard adventures in suburban Brisbane or Perth. What makes them particularly appealing to Australian families is their adaptability – they're just as happy accompanying you to the local café as they are playing in the backyard.
These little foxlike faces come in an incredible variety of colours, from classic orange and red to striking merle patterns. Their double coat is absolutely gorgeous but does require commitment – think of it as having a supermodel for a pet! They're intelligent, trainable, and surprisingly athletic for their size. Many Australian Pom owners are amazed at how well their little mate keeps up on beach walks along the Gold Coast or hiking trails in the Blue Mountains.
While they're loving and loyal to their families, Pomeranians can be a bit selective about strangers. This makes them excellent little alarm systems for your home, though you'll want to manage their vocal tendencies in close-knit Australian neighbourhoods. With proper socialisation and training, they develop into well-rounded companions that bring joy and laughter to any household.
History
History
The Pomeranian's story is quite remarkable – these tiny dogs are actually miniaturised versions of powerful Arctic spitz breeds. Originally, these dogs weighed around 14 kilograms and worked as herders and sled dogs in the historical region of Pomerania, which sat between Poland and Germany.
The breed's transformation from working dog to royal companion began in the 17th century when they caught the attention of European nobility. Queen Charlotte of England was so enchanted by these dogs that she brought two – Mercury and Phoebe – to Britain. But it was her granddaughter, Queen Victoria, who really put Pomeranians on the map. After falling in love with a smaller specimen named Marco in Italy, Victoria dedicated herself to breeding even tinier versions of these dogs.
Victoria's influence was enormous – she maintained a kennel of over thirty Pomeranians and showed them extensively. Her favourite, a red sable named Gina, was particularly beloved. Under royal patronage, the breed was refined down to the toy size we know today, with breeders focusing on creating that distinctive fox-like expression and luxurious double coat.
The breed made its way to America in 1888, where it quickly gained popularity among the fashionable set. By 1900, the American Kennel Club officially recognised the breed, and it hasn't looked back since. Interestingly, two Pomeranians were among the few dogs to survive the Titanic disaster, having been small enough to accompany their owners in the lifeboats.
Today's Pomeranians carry this rich heritage of royal favour and survivor spirit, making them both regal and resilient companions for modern Australian families.
Traits & Characteristics
Pomeranian characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Pomeranians are generally healthy little dogs with impressive longevity, often living 12-16 years when well cared for. However, like many toy breeds, they do have some specific health considerations that Australian owners should be aware of.
One of the most important conditions to watch for is hypoglycaemia, particularly in puppies and smaller adults. Australia's warm climate can sometimes exacerbate this condition, so it's crucial to maintain regular feeding schedules and watch for signs like weakness, stumbling, or shaking. Your Aussie vet can recommend glucose gels for emergency situations.
Eye problems are relatively common in Pomeranians, including dry eye, cataracts, and tear duct issues. The bright Australian sun can be harsh on sensitive eyes, so consider providing shade during peak UV hours. Regular eye cleaning is essential, especially for lighter-coloured Poms who may develop tear staining.
Luxating patella (kneecap dislocation) and hip dysplasia can affect the breed, though many cases are manageable with proper care. Collapsing trachea is another concern – using a harness instead of a collar is strongly recommended, particularly important when walking around busy Australian neighbourhoods or beaches.
Dental health requires special attention in this small breed. Their tiny mouths can lead to overcrowding and tartar buildup. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential – many Australian veterinary clinics offer dental packages specifically designed for toy breeds.
Some Pomeranians develop alopecia (hair loss) conditions, including the cosmetic condition sometimes called "black skin disease." While not life-threatening, these conditions can affect your dog's appearance and may require ongoing management.
Regular check-ups with your local vet, maintaining proper weight, and being vigilant about changes in behaviour or appearance will help ensure your Pomeranian enjoys a long, healthy life in the Australian climate.
Feeding a Pomeranian properly is crucial for their health and wellbeing, particularly given their predisposition to hypoglycaemia. These little dogs have fast metabolisms and need consistent, high-quality nutrition throughout their lives.
For Australian Pom owners, choosing a premium commercial dog food that meets nutritional standards is the best approach. Look for foods specifically formulated for toy breeds, as these have smaller kibble sizes and higher calorie density. Puppies need particularly frequent feeding – often 3-5 small meals daily – to prevent dangerous blood sugar drops. Adult Pomeranians should eat at least twice daily, with many owners finding three smaller meals work better.
Portion control is absolutely essential. These dogs are prone to weight gain, and even an extra 500 grams can significantly impact their health and mobility. Follow the feeding guidelines on your chosen food, but remember these are starting points – your dog's activity level, age, and metabolism will influence their actual needs. Many Australian vets recommend measuring food rather than free-feeding, especially important given our lifestyle of outdoor entertaining where table scraps might be tempting.
Life stage nutrition matters enormously. Puppy food supports growth and development, while senior formulas often include antioxidants that can help slow cognitive decline – particularly important for a breed with such longevity. Some owners find breed-specific Pomeranian formulas work well, though they're not essential if you're feeding a quality toy breed formula.
Treats should be factored into daily calorie counts, and many Australian pet stores now stock dental chews sized appropriately for toy breeds. Fresh water should always be available, particularly important during our hot summers. If you're considering supplements like fish oil for coat health or joint support, discuss this with your vet first – over-supplementation can be as problematic as deficiency in small dogs.
The Pomeranian's stunning double coat is their crowning glory, but it comes with serious grooming commitments that Australian owners need to understand before bringing one home. That fluffy, fox-like appearance requires consistent maintenance to stay healthy and beautiful.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable during shedding seasons (spring and autumn), and you'll want to brush thoroughly 2-3 times weekly year-round. Use a pin brush and slicker brush to work through the dense undercoat right down to the skin – this prevents the painful matting that can develop surprisingly quickly in this breed. Many Australian groomers recommend starting with a spray conditioner to make brushing easier and reduce static, particularly helpful in our dry climate.
Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is highly recommended for most Australian Pom owners. A skilled groomer can provide sanitary trims, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and help maintain that signature Pomeranian silhouette. During hot Australian summers, some owners opt for shorter "puppy cuts" to keep their dogs comfortable, though this does change their appearance significantly.
Bathing frequency depends on lifestyle, but generally every 2-4 weeks works well. Don't wait longer than a month, as this increases matting risk. Use lukewarm water and quality dog shampoo – the harsh Australian sun and chlorinated pools can dry out their skin, so moisturising formulas often work well.
Pay special attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the arms, and around the rear end. White Pomeranians may need daily eye cleaning to prevent tear staining, while all colours benefit from regular ear checks. Their upright ears are less prone to infection than drop-eared breeds, but Australian conditions like humidity and dust can still cause issues.
Nail trimming should happen regularly, as these small dogs don't always wear their nails down naturally, especially if they spend most time on soft surfaces rather than concrete pavements.
Don't let their size fool you – Pomeranians are intelligent, energetic dogs that need both mental stimulation and physical exercise to thrive in Australian homes. The good news is their exercise needs are quite manageable, making them perfect for busy lifestyles or smaller living spaces.
A couple of short walks daily, totalling about 30-45 minutes, usually satisfies their exercise requirements. They love exploring new environments, so mixing up your routes around local neighbourhoods, parks, or even dog-friendly beaches keeps them engaged. Many Australian Pom owners find their dogs enjoy morning walks before the heat builds up, then prefer indoor play during the hottest parts of the day.
Training should start early and focus on positive reinforcement methods. These dogs are smart and eager to please, but they can also be quite independent-minded. Consistency is key – what's cute in a puppy (like demanding attention) can become problematic behaviour in an adult if not managed properly. House training can be challenging due to their small size, but patience and regular schedules work well.
Socialisation is absolutely crucial for this breed. Without proper exposure to different people, situations, and other dogs, Pomeranians can become overly protective or reactive. Australia's dog-friendly culture provides excellent opportunities – many cafés, markets, and parks welcome well-behaved small dogs, giving you plenty of socialisation venues.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, basic obedience training, and even tricks keep their clever minds occupied. Many Australian dog training clubs offer small dog classes, which are perfect for Pomeranians to learn alongside similarly sized peers.
Be mindful of their delicate build during play – avoid encouraging jumping from heights, and supervise interactions with larger dogs. Their confident personality sometimes writes cheques their tiny bodies can't cash!
Who is an ideal owner?
Pomeranians make wonderful companions for a specific type of Australian owner who understands and appreciates their unique needs and personality. They're particularly well-suited to people who want a dog with a big personality in a small package, but who also have the time and commitment for regular grooming and training.
These dogs thrive with owners who are home regularly or can provide consistent companionship. They're not the best choice for people who work long hours without support, as they can develop separation anxiety. However, they're fantastic for retirees, people working from home, or families where someone is usually around. Many Australian city dwellers find them perfect apartment companions, especially in places like Melbourne or Sydney where space is at a premium.
Pomeranians suit active people who enjoy regular walks and outings. They love being included in daily activities – trips to dog-friendly cafés, weekend markets, or beach walks. They're small enough to travel easily, making them great companions for caravan adventures or weekend getaways around Australia.
They work well with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently, but aren't recommended for families with very young kids who might accidentally injure them. Single people or couples often find them ideal, as Pomeranians are happy to be the centre of attention.
Patience is essential – these dogs can be stubborn and vocal, so owners need to be committed to consistent training and willing to manage their barking in suburban neighbourhoods. They're perfect for people who enjoy grooming or are prepared to budget for professional grooming services.
First-time owners can succeed with Pomeranians if they're prepared to invest time in proper training and socialisation. However, they're particularly rewarding for people who appreciate intelligent, characterful dogs and don't mind a pet with strong opinions about how things should be done!
Interesting facts about the Pomeranian
Interesting Fact
Two Pomeranians were among the three dogs to survive the Titanic disaster, accompanying their owners Margaret Hays and Elizabeth Rothschild in the lifeboats
Interesting Fact
The breed was originally much larger – around 14 kilograms – and worked as sled dogs and herders before being bred down to toy size
Interesting Fact
Queen Victoria owned over 30 Pomeranians and is credited with reducing the breed's size by half during her lifetime through selective breeding
Interesting Fact
Famous historical figures who owned Pomeranians include Mozart (who even composed a melody for his dog), Michelangelo, and Martin Luther King Jr.
FAQ
Expect to pay between $1,500-$4,000 for a well-bred Pomeranian puppy from a reputable breeder. Show-quality dogs or rare colours can cost significantly more. Remember to budget for ongoing costs like grooming, which can be $80-120 every 6-8 weeks, plus regular vet care and quality food.
Pomeranians can make great family dogs, but they're better suited to families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Their tiny size makes them vulnerable to injury from rough play or accidental drops. They're often wonderful with respectful children and can form strong bonds with kids who treat them properly.
Despite their small size, Pomeranians are quite active and need about 30-45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be split into two short walks plus indoor play. They're perfect for apartment living but still need mental stimulation and regular outings to stay happy and healthy.
Yes, Pomeranians are naturally vocal dogs with excellent watchdog instincts. They'll alert you to visitors, unusual sounds, and anything they find interesting. Early training can help manage excessive barking, but you should expect some vocalisation – it's part of their personality.
Absolutely! Pomeranians are ideal apartment dogs due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. They adapt well to city living in places like Sydney or Melbourne, though you'll need to manage their barking to maintain good relationships with neighbours.
Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is recommended, with daily brushing during shedding seasons and 2-3 times weekly year-round. Their double coat requires consistent maintenance to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. Many Australian owners find regular grooming essential, especially during our humid summers.
Pomeranians cope reasonably well with Australia's varied climate. Their double coat provides some insulation, but they may need cooling strategies during hot summers and warm clothing during cooler winters in places like Melbourne or Canberra. Always provide shade and fresh water during hot weather.