The Pomeranian may be small in size, but this fluffy breed is bursting with confidence, charm, and attitude. Known for their fox-like faces, plumed tails, and lively temperaments, Pomeranians are among the most popular toy breeds around the world.
Despite their dainty appearance, they’re alert, smart, and full of energy. These little extroverts thrive in homes that can match their spirited nature—and keep up with their fluffy coat!
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Toy |
| Height | 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) |
| Weight | 3 to 7 pounds (1.4 to 3.2 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Coat Type | Long, double coat with a thick undercoat |
| Colors | Orange, black, cream, sable, blue, chocolate, white, and many others |
| Temperament | Confident, alert, lively |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Short daily walks, Indoor fetch, tug games, etc. |
| Shedding | High (seasonal) |
| Trainability | High with consistency |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Best For | Small homes, city living, experienced owners |
Where the Pomeranian Comes From
Pomeranians originally descend from larger sled-pulling Spitz dogs of the Arctic. The breed was eventually miniaturized in the region of Pomerania (between modern-day Poland and Germany).
They became wildly popular in the 1800s thanks to Queen Victoria, who had a particularly tiny Pomeranian and helped make the small size fashionable. Today’s Poms are still full of that royal energy—and plenty of sass.
Curious about the different looks and sizes these spunky pups can have? Explore the various Types of Pomeranians to see just how diverse this tiny breed can be.
What They Look Like
Pomeranians are known for their thick, fluffy double coat, fox-like face, erect ears, and alert, confident stance. Their tail arches over the back and is covered in long, flowing fur.
They come in a huge variety of colors—orange and red are the most iconic, but you’ll also find cream, black, blue, chocolate, brindle, and even merle Pomeranians.
Despite their small size, they often carry themselves like big dogs, full of pride and personality.
Curious about all the beautiful shades these pups come in? Explore the full range of Pomeranian Colors to see just how diverse their coats can be.
Temperament and Behavior
This breed is known for being outgoing, expressive, and clever. Pomeranians are loyal to their people and often act like watchdogs, barking to alert you when something’s up.
Typical traits:
- Bold and curious
- Smart and eager to learn
- Affectionate with their family
- May be wary or bossy around strangers and other pets
They love attention and don’t mind being the center of it. With early socialization, they’re more likely to get along well with kids, visitors, and other dogs.
Family Life and Social Compatibility
Poms do best in homes where they’re treated like part of the family. They form strong bonds with their people and may follow them around the house.
They can be great with kids but are best suited to families with older children who know how to handle small dogs gently. Their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury.
They can coexist peacefully with other pets, though they often act like the boss—even around much larger dogs.
Training and Mental Engagement
These dogs are very smart and enjoy learning, but they can also be independent and stubborn. Early training is important to prevent barking or possessiveness.
Training tips:
- Use gentle, positive reinforcement
- Be consistent—Poms love routines
- Start socialization early to reduce reactivity
- Keep sessions short and fun to match their attention span
Many Poms enjoy learning tricks, participating in small-dog agility, or mastering obedience tasks.
Exercise and Play
Pomeranians don’t need a lot of space to run, but they do need daily activity to burn off their energy.
They benefit from:
- Short daily walks
- Indoor fetch or tug games
- Puzzle toys for mental stimulation
- Supervised play with other small dogs
They’re surprisingly athletic for their size and enjoy staying active, but they’re also happy to curl up in your lap when it’s time to rest.
Grooming and Coat Care
This breed’s thick double coat is beautiful—but it does require work. Regular brushing helps prevent mats and tangles while also controlling shedding.
Grooming needs:
- Brush 3–4 times a week
- Bathe every 3–6 weeks or when needed
- Trim nails and clean ears regularly
- Brush teeth several times a week (small breeds often have dental issues)
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks helps with coat upkeep
They shed seasonally and benefit from more frequent brushing during those times.
For inspiration on how to manage and style their fluffy coats, check out these popular Pomeranian Haircuts that not only keep them looking adorable but also help with coat maintenance.
Health and Lifespan
Pomeranians are generally healthy and long-lived when cared for properly. Common health concerns include:
- Dental problems
- Collapsing trachea
- Luxating patella
- Heart issues in older age
- Hypoglycemia in small puppies
Routine vet visits, a good diet, and dental care go a long way in keeping them healthy into their teens.
Feeding and Nutrition
Poms do best on a high-quality small-breed formula that meets their energy and nutritional needs.
Feeding tips:
- ½ to 1 cup per day, split into two meals
- Monitor treats—Poms can gain weight easily
- Watch for signs of hypoglycemia in very small or young dogs
- Include dental chews or additives to support oral health
Keep their food consistent and portion-controlled to prevent stomach upset.
Cost and Availability
Pomeranian puppies from breeders typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on size, coat color, and lineage. Toy or teacup varieties often cost more.
Adoption fees are lower and usually fall between $100 and $500. Rescue groups often specialize in toy breeds or Spitz types.
Want a full breakdown of what influences the cost of this fluffy companion? Check out this detailed guide on Pomeranian Price to help you budget smartly.
Is the Pomeranian Right for You?
This tiny dog is best for owners who love personality, don’t mind brushing, and want a smart, affectionate pet.
Best for:
- Singles, couples, or families with older kids
- Apartment or small-home living
- Owners who enjoy grooming and bonding time
- People looking for a small watchdog with a big personality
Not ideal for:
- Homes with toddlers or rough play
- Those who don’t want to keep up with coat care
- People looking for a quiet or mellow breed
If you want a little dog with a lion’s heart and endless charm, the Pomeranian may be the perfect fit.
If you love the Pomeranian’s personality but want something a little different, you might enjoy exploring Pomeranian Mixes—they combine the Pom’s charm with traits from other breeds for even more variety.