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Featured Breed : Pomeranian

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Pomeranian

Life Span:~15+ years
Litter Size: 1 to 2
Country of Origin: Germany/Poland

Size: On average, the Pomeranians weigh from 3 to 7 pounds. They are slightly shorter from shoulder to rear than they are tall (measured from the top of the shoulder to the ground).

Coat: The Pomeranian has a double coat, which is one of its most noticeable features. The undercoat sheds constantly. The undercoat is soft and dense, but the outer coat is long and straight, with a very coarse texture. Their coats are very thick and stand off from the body, making the dog look significantly larger than he really is. The coat on the head and legs is tightly packed and shorter than that on the body. The forequarters and hindquarters are typically well feathered. Trimming of the Pomeranian's hair on a regular basis is essential to keeping this breed looking neat.

Character: The Pomeranian makes a delightful family member, being extroverted, lively and very intelligent. This breed has not forgotten its Spitz heritage and can be very loyal and protective towards its human family. Compensating for its diminutive size with extreme intelligence and incredible energy, it excels at any type of obedience training.

Appearance: The Pomeranian is a small, dainty and fragile looking dog. The body is short but surprisingly well-muscled, with straight legs and a tail that curls over the back. The wedge-shaped head has a fox-like face with small, high-set ears and oval eyes. The harsh coat is long and straight with a thick and fluffy undercoat. The coloring can vary but tends to include cream, sable, blue, red, orange, and brindle.

History: Descended from the Spitz family???specifically the sled dogs of Lapland and Iceland???Pomeranians were originally big, sturdy herders of sheep. Over time, they were bred down to a smaller size, becoming cherished pets of Marie Antoinette, Mozart and (famously) Queen Victoria, whose preference for small Pomeranians created a worldwide demand. During the late 1800s they came to the U.S. Ever since, their good temper and small size have made them an enduring favorite in the U.S.

Health Issues: As with many breeds and mixes, the Pomeranian can suffer from a hip problem called Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. This condition causes a reduced blood supply to the head of the rear leg bone, which causes it to degrade. The first sign of Legg-Calve-Perthes, limping, usually appears when a puppy is 4 to 6 months old. The sooner it???s caught and treated, the greater the chances the dog will have a full recovery. Some Pomeranians develop a coat condition that goes by many names: black-skin disease, genetic alopecia, elephant skin, severe hair-loss syndrome, or just ???that coat problem.??? Hair loss occurs over most of the body, and, as you can imagine, a bald Pomeranian is a sorry sight! In some cases, the condition responds to treatment.

Temperament: The busy, bold, and vivacious Pomeranian utilizes each day to the fullest. It is playful, inquisitive, self-confident (sometimes too confident), attentive, and always in the mood for an adventure or game. The breed is generally shy around strangers and some Pomeranians may bark a lot or be unfriendly towards other dogs.

Care: Daily brushing of the long double coat is needed to prevent matting. Monthly bathing is recommended. Pomeranians shed once or twice a year. Clean the eyes, ears and teeth regularly. Pomeranians do not need extensive exercises. Indoors, at home, or a romp in the park will suffice. The barking, though, needs to be curbed early on.

Training: The Pomeranian is a fun dog to train because they are an eager learner. Working in a positive, motivational manner, the Pom will soon master basic obedience and will be delighted to learn more advanced things like agility. It is important to obedience train a Pomeranian because they need to know who's in charge. Housetraining may take a little longer than with some other breeds.

Activity: The Pomeranian requires short walks and play time with other pets and family. They have the capability to learn tricks if done with patience and time. They may become bored if they are not given enough to do. They are excellent for apartment living and homes with small yards.
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