Grooming
Keeping Pomeranian haircuts looking sharp requires a good bit of sudsing, so bathe your dog in warm water every one to four weeks. Blot dry with an absorbent towel, then use a hairdryer (but never leave a dog unattended under one). Brushing their teeth a few times a week (if not daily) is recommended, as is brushing the double coat a couple of times a week to remove shedding and matted hair.
A wire pin brush is ideal for a Pom’s thick coat and a small size works well on their various tiny haircuts, including the Pomeranian teddy bear cut (short body hair and longer face and ear fur that’s cut in a circle—aww!) and the Pomeranian lion cut, which features closely clipped body fur and long head hair shaped like a mini mane (a tiny tuft on the tail is optional, but adorable).
A complete Pomeranian grooming package, which is highly recommended every four to six weeks, will include bathing, brushing and a haircut (as needed), cleaning the teeth, ears, and anal glands as well as clipping the nails. Tap a pro groomer if you’re not keen to handle some areas. And you should still see your vet for professional dental cleanings.
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Training
Go to the head of the class! Sign your Pomeranian puppy up for obedience training, and they’ll quickly learn how to sit, stay and speak. And make good use of a small-dog leash early on, attaching it to a halter rather than a collar. (Some Poms have tracheal issues, so a halter is safer.) The goal: taking advantage of that famous Pomeranian intelligence to teach them to walk nicely when leashed.
Housebreaking is another important part of Pomeranian training, but know that accidents can happen, especially with tiny pups and their equally small bladders. Training pads are a good go-to inside. The Pet Parents washable dog pee pads with a non-slip backing, for example, are reusable and the neutral tones match most home decor.
Let’s talk about jumping. The “off” or “down” command is one to master right away to prevent energetic Poms from springing onto chairs, couches and beds. A Pom’s “big-dog bluster” may lead them to think they can leap tall sofas in a single bound, but this practice could actually end with injured joints or even a broken bone.
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Diet
As long as the chow you choose is complete and balanced, you can serve up either commercially prepared food or little meals you make yourself. (Just be sure to run these homemade concoctions by your vet to be sure they meet your pet’s nutritional needs.) And, of course, be sure to consider your Pom’s age when selecting the right kibble—which means puppy food for young dogs, adult food for adult animals, and a senior diet for your elderly Pomeranian.
Treats are an important part of a dog’s diet as they’re necessary during training as well as to reward a very good dog when the moment arises. But don’t go overboard with your handouts (or with your nightly scoops of dog dinner), as serving too-large portions can lead to an overweight Pom.
Always keep fresh water available so your pup can wet their whistle, and make a point of learning which human foods are safe to share on occasion and which are not.
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Exercise
Regular exercise is the goal for your Pomeranian (and you, too!), so get this sweet lapdog off your legs and into the backyard or to the park for some run-around time. A nice 20-minute walk a couple of times a day should do the trick. Just remember to watch your Pom like a hawk, as it’s not unheard of for this breed to slip through holes in a fence or thick hedges or to scramble over short barriers.
And speaking of hawks (and owls), because Poms tend to resemble small rodents like squirrels, hedgehogs and rabbits, these winged predators may mistake your dog for their dinner and actually swoop down to carry a Pom away. Your best bet is to stay with your Pomeranian when out in fields or other large open areas at all times. A leashed pet is safest, rather than one who roams free, and always be aware of your surroundings.
The same layer of defense holds for bigger dogs you may encounter on your daily walks. Since some large pups may play rough with your Pom, it’s wise to watch the path ahead and cross the street if you think a big breed may not mix well with your diminutive one.
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Environment
Nearly any type of family looking to add a small dog into their lives and homes would do well to consider the Pomeranian. This friendly breed is pleased to reside in small condos with adults or larger homes with a posse of pets and children. As a potential watchdog, a Pomeranian will alert their pet parents to arriving guests, deliveries and other action happening nearby.
Poms can mesh well with active families and enjoy outings as long as pet parents allow this pup’s short legs to keep the pace a reasonable one. Before heading out, Pom parents should always check the weather as high temperatures can overheat Pomeranians thanks to their fabulous double coat. Kids can easily entertain a Pom since games of “fetch,” and toys that squeak, bounce or crinkle are great for this breed. One to try: the Chuckit! balls, which come in a set of two in case one goes missing in the park.
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