If you’re considering adopting a new furry friend into your family, you may have already come across different dog breeds, each with a unique set of traits, which leaves you wondering, “which breed is the right fit for our family?” Today we’re putting a spotlight on one of the most popular dog breeds – the Pomeranian.
Contrary to popular belief, these puffy fur balls weren’t always the pint-sized pups we know today. They descend from the large, husky sled dogs of the Arctic and were the esteemed dog breed of European royalty. Queen Victoria of England had a big role to play in shrinking these dogs down. It all started when she adopted a small Pomeranian during a trip to Italy, and the tiny dog breed that spent its time in royal courts was born!
With a reputation for being playful, friendly, and always ready for adventure, it comes as no surprise that you might be pondering if a Pomeranian could be the perfect canine companion for your family.
Well, let’s dig a little deeper into the world of Pomeranians and see why they can make wonderful pet family members.
First, Pomeranians possess a high degree of loyalty to their families, which, coupled with their bold and confident nature, makes them terrific watchdogs. While they might be small in size, their alert and protective nature more than makes up for it. They may not be able to physically ward off intruders, but they’ll surely let you know something is amiss!
For a family with children, especially older children who know how to handle dogs, Pomeranians can be a great addition. It’s important to note, however, that because Pomeranians are small and somewhat fragile, they might not be the best fit for families with very tiny, boisterous kids who could accidentally hurt them.
Pomeranians are an excellent fit for families who have ample time to devote to their canine friend. These dogs crave attention, so they’re happiest when they’re part of your activities. Expect them to follow you around the house, help in the kitchen (in their way!), and even curl up with you for a movie night.
Another impressive trait of Pomeranians that makes them fantastic family dogs is their intelligence. They’re bright, quick learners that are eager to please their people. This, combined with their vibrant energy, makes them highly trainable. You and your kids will have fun teaching your Pom new tricks, as they pick up command cues rather swiftly.
One point to consider is, Pomeranians come bundled with a lot of energy in a tiny package. They will need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A big backyard isn’t necessary, though. A few brisk walks and a little playtime indoors each day will often be plenty.
They’re also famed for their striking fluffy double coat that comes in almost two dozen colors, including white, black, brown, red, orange, cream, blue, sable, black and tan, and sometimes a combination. While they’re undeniably gorgeous, they’re also a commitment. They shed quite a bit and require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and beautiful.
When it comes to socializing, Pomeranians are somewhat diverse. Some are sociable and friendly, while others can be a little standoffish. Early socialization and obedience training can help ensure that your Pomeranian grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
As a breed, Pomeranians are healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they’re prone to specific health conditions. Not all Pomeranians will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s essential to be aware if you’re considering this breed. They can live to be 12-16 years old if taken care of well with a proper diet and regular check-ups.
Lastly, they make great companions for families living in apartments. Since they’re small, they don’t require as much space as larger breeds. However, their tendency to bark can be an issue for close living quarters, so be sure to do some obedience training to mitigate this.
So, is a Pomeranian a good family dog? In short, with their adorable looks, lively personalities, loyalty, and intelligence, the Pomeranian can be a great addition to many types of families. They thrive in households where someone is usually around since they love company and can be quite demanding of attention.
Remember, owning a pet means commitment and responsibility, big or small. When considering adding a Pomeranian to your family, keep in mind their exercise needs, grooming needs, and their health considerations. And once you’ve decided, get ready to welcome a bundle of joy, fluff, and unending, pure love!
