POMERANIAN Breed Standards
In the simplest sense, the Pomeranian is nothing more than a miniaturized spitz, though the exact details of where and when this shrinking took place are uncertain. The origins of the spitz family are ancient and far flung, but most historians agree that these dogs were bred down in size in Pomerania – which stretches across modern Germany and Poland along the southern coast of the Baltic Sea – during the 19th century. The first Poms descended from the Deutscher Spitz, and weighed about six times as much as the dogs we see today – typically around 30 pounds. The breed was brought to England around 1850, where it was given the name Pomeranian in honor of its homeland.
In 1888, a Pomeranian named Marco was given as a gift to Queen Victoria, and the breed’s association with this influential and beloved monarch did much for its popularity all over the world – in fact, the Pomeranian was recognized by the American Kennel Club in the very same year. In accordance with the wishes of the Queen as well as those of dog fanciers, the Pomeranian continued to be bred down in size, eventually becoming the little powder puff we know today. Today, the Pomeranian’s manageable size and spunky character have made it one of the most popular breeds, measured in terms of AKC registration, in the United States.
SKILLS: The Pomeranian is a compact, short-backed, active dog. He has a soft, dense undercoat with a profuse harsh-textured outer coat. His heavily plumed tail is set high and lies flat on his back. He is alert in character, exhibits intelligence in expression, is buoyant in deportment, and is inquisitive by nature. The Pomeranian is cocky, commanding, and animated as he gaits. He is sound in composition and action.
SIZE: The average weight of the Pomeranian is from 3 to 7 pounds, with the ideal weight for the show specimen being 4 to 6 pounds. Any dog over or under the limits is objectionable. However, overall quality is to be favored over size. The distance from the point of shoulder to the point of buttocks is slightly shorter than from the highest point of the withers to the ground. the distance from the brisket to the ground is half the height at the withers. He is medium-boned, and the length of his legs is in proportion to a well-balanced frame. When examined, he feels sturdy.
COAT: A Pomeranian is noted for its double coat. The undercoat is soft and dense. The outer-coat is long, straight, glistening and harsh in texture. A thick undercoat will hold up and permit the guard hair to stand off from the Pomeranian's body. The coat is abundant from the neck and fore part of shoulders and chest, forming a frill which extends over the shoulders and chest. The head and leg coat is tightly packed and shorter in length than that of the body. The forequarters are well-feathered to the hock. The tail is profusely covered with long, harsh, spreading straight hair. Trimming for neatness and a clean outline is permissible. Major Faults: Soft, flat or open coat. Color - All colors, patterns, and variations there-of are allowed and must be judged on an equal basis. Patterns: Black and Tan - tan or rust sharply defined, appearing above each eye and on muzzle, throat, and forechest, on all legs and feet and below the tail. The richer the tan the more desirable; Brindle - the base color is gold, red, or orange-brindled with strong black cross stripes; Parti-color - is white with any other color distributed in patches with a white blaze preferred on the head. Classifications: The Open Classes at specialty shows may be divided by color as follows: Open Red, Orange, Cream, and Sable; Open Black, Brown, and Blue; Open Any Other Color, Pattern, or Variation.
CARE REQUIRED: The Pomeranian's very long, double coat should be brushed frequently. If you work from the head, parting the coat and brushing it forward, it will fall neatly back in place, so the task, although time-consuming, is relatively easy. The cottony undercoat is shed once or twice a year. Dry shampoo when necessary. Clean the eyes and ears daily and take the dog for regular dental checkups. The Pomeranian is a constant shedder.
CHARACTER: The Pomeranian is an extrovert, exhibiting great intelligence and a vivacious spirit, making him a great companion dog as well as a competitive show dog.
EXERCISE: As long as there is a small yard for the Pomeranian to play in, they will get enough exercise on their own. But they can walk a longer distance without becoming over-tired and would greatly enjoy a long walk.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Pomeranian is good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Keep the dog quiet in hot weather to avoid overheating.
TRAINING: This breed may become too demanding if the owner allows it. Not recommended for very young children. Too much attention from children can make these dogs nervous and they may become snappish. However, they can get along well with older, well behaved children. It is a good companion for an elderly person.
