Pet Wiki

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Pomeranian

Also called Zwergspitz, German Toy Spitz, Pom, Dwarf Spitz

A bright, bubbly companion with a big personality in a very small body.

SizeToy
Weight1.4 to 3.2 kg (3 to 7 lb)1234
Height18 to 30 cm (7 to 12 in)243
Lifespan12 to 16 years354
CoatLong, stand-off double coat
OriginGermany / the Pomerania region on the Baltic coast (today northern Poland and north-eastern Germany); developed to toy size in England641
GroupSpitz and Primitive types (FCI group 5)
Exercise60 min a day
Recognised breedDeep profile
lively and cheerful
very devoted to its owner
clever and quick to learn tricks
213

Personality what they are like

A bright, bubbly companion with a big personality in a very small body. Poms are watchful and quick to notice anything new, strongly bonded to their people and easy to train. They can be bold around bigger dogs and like to announce visitors, so early training on quiet manners pays off.21345

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, stand-off double coat

A tiny, square-built Spitz with a foxy face, small pointed ears set high and bright, alert eyes. The long, straight outer coat stands away from the body over a thick, soft undercoat, forming a lion-like ruff around the neck, and the heavily plumed tail curls up over the back.214

Coloursorangeorange sablewolf sableshaded sablecreamwhiteblackbrown/chocolatebeaverblueblack and tanparti-colourbrindle5214

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Pomeranian. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
  • Deshedding spring and autumnExtra brushing while the coat blowsevery day
  • Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
  • Bathevery 10 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseAbout 60 minutes a dayevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low to moderate. Short daily walks and play, around 20-30 minutes a day, keep them happy; they also enjoy learning tricks and obedience.35

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush the double coat once or twice a week, down to the undercoat, and daily during shedding seasons. The coat is presented as naturally as possible with only tidy-up trimming.351

Home where they are happiest

Well suited to flat or apartment living as well as houses with a small garden, in town or country. The FCI standard notes the Spitz is sturdy in all weather.52

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A complete small-breed dog food in small, measured meals. Some Poms are choosy eaters, so a consistent routine helps.3

Company who they like around

A people-oriented dog that likes to be close to its owner. Good with children who are raised with it and handle it gently, and generally gets on with other pets; watch interactions with much larger dogs because of the size difference.32

The story where it all began

The Pomeranian belongs to the German Spitz family, which the FCI describes as descending from very old Central European Spitz dogs. The type is named after Pomerania on the Baltic coast, and early Pomeranians were far larger working dogs of up to about 13-14 kg. A 1764 diary by James Boswell contains one of the first written mentions of a 'Pomeranian dog'. Queen Charlotte brought two to England in 1767, and her granddaughter Queen Victoria became the breed's great champion, showing a small red sable dog in 1891. Her enthusiasm for smaller dogs helped reduce the breed's size by about half during her lifetime. An English breed club followed in 1891, the AKC recognised the breed in 1900 and the UKC in 1914.2415

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Two Pomeranians were among the very few dogs to survive the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, carried aboard lifeboats by their owners.4

  2. 2

    Queen Victoria's love of small Poms is credited with shrinking the breed to roughly half its former size during her lifetime.4

  3. 3

    A Pomeranian named Jiff set Guinness World Records in 2014 for the fastest 10 m on hind legs (6.56 s) and fastest 5 m on front paws (7.76 s).7

  4. 4

    Pomeranians are said to come in the widest range of colours of any dog breed.4

  5. 5

    The first Pomeranian to win Best in Show at Westminster was Great Elms Prince Charming II in 1988.4

  6. 6

    Early Pomeranians could weigh up to around 13 kg (30 lb), much bigger than today's toy dogs.1

  7. 7

    Pomeranians usually have small litters, averaging roughly two to three puppies.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the Pomerania region in north-west Poland and north-east Germany, where it originated.4

Name ideas for your new friend

AnniFritzGretaHansHeidiKlausLieselMikaNoodlePippinSchnitzelZiggy

A day in the life told by a Pomeranian

I woke up and bounced on my human’s bed to say good morning. I’m small, but I have a big voice, so I gave a little yip to hurry them along. After a quick breakfast, we practiced tricks, I can sit, spin, and even play dead. I love the applause! Then we went for a short walk where I strutted like I own the sidewalk. Back home, I watched out the window, ready to announce any squirrel. In the evening, I snuggled in a lap, purring with happiness. I’m the boss of this house, and I love it.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Recognised as the Pomeranian (Zwergspitz) variety of the German Spitz, Standard No. 97, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 4 (European Spitz); definitive acceptance 1 Jan 1957; current standard published 3 Sep 20246
The Royal Kennel Club
Toy Group; the breed was first seen in the UK in 18705
AKC
Toy Group; registrations from 1898, full recognition 19004
UKC
Companion Dog Group; recognised 19141

Popularity Ranked 19th of AKC-registered breeds in 2025, up three places from 22nd in 2024.8

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Pomeranian tip

Pomeranians have tiny jaws and are prone to dental disease, so choose very small, dental-friendly treats. Because they burn calories quickly but are also at risk of obesity, keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories and avoid fatty human food.

Source: petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Pomeranian, and at what times?

Feed your Pomeranian at least two measured meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. A consistent routine helps, especially since some Poms can be choosy eaters. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.39

What should a Pomeranian eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A complete small-breed dog food in small, measured meals is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and alcohol. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a full list.310

How often should I bathe a Pomeranian?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 70 days, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Pom gets very dirty or has skin issues, but always use a dog-safe shampoo.11 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Pomeranian need brushing?

Brush the double coat once or twice a week, down to the undercoat, and daily during shedding seasons. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every three days, with extra daily brushing when the coat is blowing.351 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Pomeranian's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and use a proper dog nail trimmer. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.11 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Pomeranian need?

Pomeranians need low to moderate exercise, about 20-30 minutes of short daily walks and play. Pet Wiki's plan suggests around 60 minutes a day, which can include training and tricks. They adapt well to apartment life.35 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Pomeranian's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks without pushing anything into the canal. General guidance recommends brushing teeth two to three times a week, but daily is ideal for small breeds.11 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Pomeranian live?

Pomeranians typically live between 12 and 16 years, with proper care and regular vet check-ups. Senior years usually start around age 10.354

Is a Pomeranian good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are good with children raised with them and handled gently, and generally get on with other pets. Watch interactions with much larger dogs due to the size difference. Early training on quiet manners helps.32

Can a Pomeranian be left alone?

Pomeranians are people-oriented and like to be close to their owner, so they may struggle with long periods alone. How long they can be left varies by individual; ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on your specific dog.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. UKC Pomeranian standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, weight, coat, colours, history
  2. FCI Standard No. 97 (German Spitz incl. Pomeranian) fci.beused for height, colours, coat, temperament, history
  3. Hill's Pet: Pomeranian hillspet.comused for height, weight, lifespan, exercise, grooming, diet, social needs
  4. Wikipedia: Pomeranian dog en.wikipedia.orgused for history, recognition, fun facts, popularity
  5. The Royal Kennel Club: Pomeranian royalkennelclub.comused for colours, exercise, grooming, living space, lifespan, history
  6. FCI nomenclature: German Spitz No. 97 fci.beused for recognition, origin
  7. Guinness World Records: Jiff the fastest dog on two paws guinnessworldrecords.comused for fun fact
  8. AKC: Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2025 akc.orgused for popularity
  9. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  10. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  11. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
  12. AKC: Pomeranian akc.orgused for group, general description

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.