There are few dogs that are as cute as these little
lion-like dogs with their teddy bear eyes, but does the Pomeranian
temperament match his sweet exterior?
These toy breed dogs, also known as Pom Poms, originated in
Germany as a favorite lap dog of the royal court and most Poms still
act like a member of the royal class.
Here are the top 7 things you need to know about the
Pomeranian temperament before your bring one into your home.
1. They love their humans with all their hearts!
One of the things about the Pomeranian temperament that
makes them such popular dogs is that they are very affectionate and loyal.
They want to be with you all the time and this can be both a good and bad
thing.
Many Poms suffer from Separation Anxiety if they
do not understand their role in the family. The best way to avoid anxiety
related behavior problems is by providing lots of physical exercise and by
setting yourself up as the clear pack leader.
2. Pomeranians get along with just about everyone.
One of the nice things about these little dogs is that they
get along so well with each other as well as other animals. They tend to be
very active, happy little dogs that enjoy playing and cuddling. The one
exception to this is young children.
3. Poms are confidant, brave little dogs.
Despite being only 7-12 inches tall, the Pomeranian is a very
bold and brave little dog. This makes them a lot of fun to interact with
but can also lead to “Small Dog Syndrome.”
With small dogs, we tend to allow a lot of ill-mannered
behavior that we would never allow in a larger dog. This leads little dogs like
Pomeranians to believe that they rule the roost and can get away with anything
they want.
As a responsible Pom owner, you will want to establish rules
and boundaries that will help avoid Small Dog Syndrome.
4. They make great pint-sized watchdogs!
It may seem crazy to think about a 3-7 pound bundle of fluff
as a watch dog, but it’s true. The confidant Pomeranian temperament and their
tendency toward territoriality means that they will always let you know when a
stranger is up to no good.
It is important that these little tough guys be socialized
at a young age. Pomeranians need to be exposed to lots of people as well as
unusual sights and loud sounds so that their naturally cautious nature does not
turn into suspiciousness. A suspicious dog can lead to a defensive dog if not
properly socialized.
5. Pomeranians are smart and love to learn.
Because of their agility and eagerness to learn, Poms
have been used as circus dogs as well as in Hollywood. It does, however,
take a consistent and patient person to bring out their best.
Their intelligence has made them one of the few toy breeds
that compete and excel in agility competition. As with all smart dogs, you have
to make sure that your cute little fluff-ball doesn’t outsmart you!
6. They crave attention.
While Pomeranians don’t require a lot from their owners in
terms of food and exercise, they do prefer to be the center of your world.
The Pomeranian temperament is a mix between independent and
loyal but they love nothing more than to sit on your lap and be showered
with love and affection.
The good news is that they will give it right back and
nothing can brighten your day more than having those adorable eyes turned on
you with adoration.
7. Poms are active and alert.
It isn’t uncommon to see a Pomeranian trotting around the
house, exploring everything with his sharp little nose. Because of the bold
Pomeranian temperament, they are often brave enough to be inquisitive about new
places and people.
Health Concerns
Pomeranians are predisposed to many of the same health concerns
as you would find in other small breeds.
* Luxating Patellas – This is a condition which
causes the knee-cap to slip out of place and is the most common health concern
with Pomeranians.
* Collapsing Tracheas – Because of their fragility, it is
important that a harness as opposed to a collar be used when leading a small
dog like a Pom. Even a gentle tug on a leash attached to the collar of such a
small animal can cause damage to their trachea.
* Bad Teeth – With a good diet which includes crunchy
kibble, you can deter many of the dental issues of which Pomeranians are prone.
Also, you will want to have your little one’s teeth cleaned on a regular
basis by your vet. Also, you will want
to have your little one’s teeth cleaned on a regular basis by your vet
Is the Pomeranian the right dog for you?
If you are looking for a small dog with a big attitude and
will enjoy the Pomeranian’s temperament which is both independent but loyal and
loving, than this might be just the right little dog to bring into your family.