Pomeranian, why is it popular? Origin of the Pomeranian Spitz breed, external standard, character, health profile, advice on care and training, exciting facts. and Price when you buy a puppy. It is impossible not to smile while looking at this funny little dog with the face of a smiling fox, dressed in fur with an unusually fluffy collar. The playfulness and playfulness of these chanterelle dogs are beyond measure. And it’s hard to imagine that this nimble minx once took part in all the pompous royal ceremonies and was, practically, a prince among dogs.
Table of Contents
Origin and types of Pomeranian
The Pomeranian Spitz belongs to a group of dog breeds with a long and fascinating history, rich in events and occasionally closely linked to the stories of the royal houses of Europe.
It is generally accepted that all modern Spitz dogs are descended from the same ancient breed – the bog dog, sometimes called a bog dog or bog spitz. The remains of this now fossil species were first discovered in 1862 on a peatland in Swiss lakes by the Swedish zoologist Ludwig R? Tiemeyer. The mud layer, which has preserved the remains of an ancient spit-like dog, dates from the 2nd or 3rd millennium BC. Subsequently, the remains of such small dogs were found in the territory of the Moors in Germany, in caves in Belgium, in the marshes of Poland and Belarus, on the shores of Lake Ladoga and Lachavatn in the Leningrad Region, in wetlands in the Krasnoyarsk Region and several other regions of Siberia.
Dogs closer to the modern Spitz appear for the first time in the Nordic countries. Depending on the territory, they are called differently. In the Netherlands, they are called Keeshond or barge dogs (due to the special connection of local anglers with this breed), and in Germany – Wolfspitz, probably due to the resemblance to a wolf in appearance and color. But according to modern scientists, both cases involved dogs of the same breed.
One of the first documented references to Spitz dogs is from the 1450s, although the meaning of this reference is offensive. In the future, the Germans often used the word ” Spitzhund ” as a term for violence. The first designations of Spitz dogs as typical watchdogs date from the 16th century. In those years, dogs were even given the Latin scientific name – “Cannibus Brutanicus.”
Although considered relatively small dogs, the Spitz of those years were still larger than modern ones, making it possible to use them to protect property and vineyards, exterminate rodents and take care of small animals.
Nevertheless, automatic selection of the breed has shifted towards small dogs and improved their appearance, which is pleasing to the eye. In the 17th century, a particular tendency towards this group of noble dogs appeared in Western Europe. All over Europe in these years, there are already about 48 Spitz dogs of all types.
In the 18th century, they became a “favorite” of the English royal court. The Duchess of Mecklenburg, the bride of the prince and future King of Great Britain, George III, brought with her to the wedding a pair of funny white dogs of the Pomeranian breed of the region (territory of the Principality of Pomerania on the border with the Duchy of Mecklenburg). Then, the Spitz from these countries became popular among the court aristocracy and became a court dog.
It should note that the Pomeranian White Spitz has been bred in Pomerania since the 1700s. He was well known in the area much earlier than his appearance in the British royal palace. Therefore, Spitz is becoming smaller and more popular. It is known that Queen Victoria favored Spitz (including Pomeranians) (she even had her own Pomeranian nursery in Windsor), Marie Antoinette, King George IV, and Russian empresses Elizabeth and Catherine II. They admired Michelangelo and Mozart, Emile Zola and Gustav Fransen, and many other famous people.
In the already mentioned royal house, but not in his homeland, Pomerania, the modern history of breed representatives begins, surprisingly enough. The imported Spitz turned into adult miniature dogs with a stylish exterior. In 1891 the English Pomeranian Club was founded. In the same year, the breed standard was developed and approved, which predetermined the fate of these small and surprisingly cute dogs.
In the United States, the first Pomeranian fan club appeared in 1909, and in 1911 the first show was held, gathering almost 140 participants.
In Russia, the breed of these small dogs became popular towards the end of the 19th century (even Chekhov’s famous “lady with a dog” walked with a Pomeranian).
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has classified Pomeranians as German Spitz, making them a distinct subgroup of the Miniature Spitz. The Americans (American Kennel Club) thought differently and took out these representatives of dogs in a special breed.
The latest breed standard was adopted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1998.
Is a Pomeranian a nice dog?
Although the Pomeranian, with its size and funny appearance, looks more like a child’s toy, you should not forget that it is the same dog as others. And at one time, his ancestors were quite working dogs with their duties and functions. Of course, the later “judicial role” offered by Spitz leaves a historical mark. These funny little dogs have become more decorative, having almost completely lost their defensive and hunting skills.
Nowadays, a Pomeranian dog is more for the soul, for fun communication, and for joint games. And, of course, participating in exhibitions and championships. How about showing such beauty to the world!
In the role of a companion dog, the Spitz feels tremendous, and its heart “gets attached” to its owner. They have no time for games and pleasant walks; they get along well with children and small animals, have excellent control over situations, are intelligent and disciplined, and sometimes desperately jealous. But apparently, it is a universal pet to be their primary purpose and vocation, which they like very much.
Pomeranian exterior standard
The Pomeranian is a relatively small dog with a dry but strong taste. The main pride of the breed is a magnificent coat with a rich undercoat and a stunning “collar.” The dog looks like an elegant toy with a smiling, smiling face, for some unknown reason, suddenly found itself among real dogs.
The Pomeranian is classified as a miniature spitz. Its dimensions are tiny. It reaches 18-22 centimeters at the withers and weighs from 1.5 to 3.5 kg. Often they are confused with the German Spitz or even mix all the existing Spitz into a bunch. The main difference between modern Pomeranians is their unique small size.
- Head small, wedge-shaped. The station is visible but smooth. The front part of the skull is round and wide. Acupuncture manifests badly. The muzzle is “fox,” but of a shorter type. The bridge of the nose is straight, of medium width. The nose is small, distinct, and black (in brown dogs – dark brown). Lips tight, dry, black (in dogs with the brown-red spectrum, brown is allowed). The jaws are regular. Teeth according to the traditional dental recipe (set of 42 teeth). Scissor bite. Straight or heavy bitters are acceptable. Some anodes (small peripheral columns) may be missing.
- Eyes small, oval, set obliquely. The color of the eyes is brown or dark brown.
- Ears small, put close together, triangular with rounded tips, erect, abundantly hairy.
- The neck is of medium length, with a slight nape. The channel is generously covered with a beautiful fur collar, which makes it appear short.
- Torso Pomeranian Spitz square type, small but rather muscular, with a reasonably developed chest, a short, strong back, and a strong loin. The back line is moderately inclined towards the group. The group is broad, fast, and not sloping.
- Tail set high, medium in length, very fluffy. The tail is rolled over the back and curled into a circle (a double curl is allowed).
- Limbs are straight, parallel, lean, and muscular. The pots are round, small, and resemble cats.
- Wool is lovely, with a double dense, soft undercoat and long guard hair of relatively coarse quality. The fur on the neck forms a rich fur collar that adorns the dog. On the legs, there are rich feathers in the form of lush “panties.” The tail is also very thick and beautiful. The coat of a full-breed dog should not be curly, wavy, or fuzzy and should not part in the back. Finally, the wool in Pomeranian Spitz dogs only develops at three.
- Color. The classic orange color is white. The standards also allowed colors: pure black and black and tan, sable (reddish with niello), chocolate, cream, blue, blue and tan, red, and reddish orange. Two-color options are also possible, while spots with a different color should be aesthetically pleasing and evenly distributed over the animal’s entire body.
The Nature of the “Orange”
“Pomegranates” or “pom” (as they are sometimes called) is a very energetic and agile dog, inquisitive. And also – very smart, independent and independent. Spitz can act dignified and aristocratic and act like a madman, but only when he wants to. He can be impossibly stubborn and even stubborn and malicious if he wants to achieve something. And also shows remarkable tact and sweet politeness and beats around with hilarity and kindness.
And no matter how this foxhound behaves, he is always cheerful, playful, and playful, like a child. She loves walks and travels and enjoys interacting with children. Still, with other dogs, she behaves rather jealously and does not allow them freedom with their owner. And don’t be fooled by this dog’s fragile little appearance. In his blood lives a natural big dog, brave and decisive, not inferior in the strength of mind to big dogs. Since they are in their territory or the hands of the owner, they feel like accurate prices, inflexible, and invincible.
Pomeranian Spitz is very affectionate; once they got an owner in their life, they were loyal to him for life. That is why they fiercely defend it from all, in their opinion, danger. Strangers are treated with mistrust and suspicion and may even bite.
“Pony” is quite a noisy dog who loves to bark to its heart’s content, even more so when there is a reason. And even if there is no reason, they will find it to attract the attention of the beloved owner.
Health in Pomerania
Although the average lifespan of “Pomeranians” is quite long and reaches 14 years, and often they live much longer, they also have enough diseases.
The main problems of the Pomeranian Spitz are precisely related to its small size. Various disorders and deformities, breakdown of joints of varying severity, increased risk of injury – thin bones and relatively weak ligaments cannot withstand the stress of active games, especially if the dog is overfed and often carried. By the way, obesity is not such a rare problem for this breed.
The problem of pituitary dysfunction, which is associated with the specific reduction of the animal, is also revealed. From anatomical issues, there are diseases of the eyes and teeth and the presence of a particular type of cough. Dog “oranges” require preventive veterinary examinations, a careful attitude to oneself, constant care, and attention.
Pomeranian Care Tips
The leading beauty and pride of the “orange” is its fur. Looking at it, one might think that the coat is too much and would require much effort to comb out. And this is a widespread misconception. The fur of these dogs is quite hard, holds its shape well, and does not tangle. And so care is the standard. And reducing the number of dogs simplifies this process even more. Of course, if your pet is not a “catwalk star,”
The nuances of training a Pomeranian
“Pomeranians” are very intelligent and easy to train dogs; they can quickly master many tricks, even if prepared by a player. The only thing to remember is that the Spitz matures over a long period and therefore does not always meet all the requirements for him at a young age. And punishment does not help here. You need to be able to negotiate with him and wait patiently for him to grow up. And if you already know this breed and know a hundred ways of correct upbringing, then with each new Spitz dog, you will have to find a hundred first and a hundred later ways.
Price when you buy a puppy – “orange.”
The Pomeranian Spitz has established itself in Russia since the end of the 19th century. Of course, there were difficult times when the genre almost disappeared and then revived thanks to enthusiasts’ efforts.
Nowadays, Pomeranian dogs are bred in kennels almost all over America; it is not difficult to find a suitable puppy of this breed.
Another issue is the Price. Of course, the wide price range is often due to the quality of the litter. Breeding “pom poms” is not easy; the number of newborn puppies is rarely more than three, and mating with an imported foreign thoroughbred sire is expensive (up to 1000 euros). So it turns out that a purebred “Pomeranian” puppy, capable of participating in a show with foresight, will cost no less than 500-700$.
Of course, you can find a puppy cheaper. Somewhere in the outskirts of America, Canada, England, or Mexico, the cost of a small spitz is much lower. However, genuinely worthy puppies are expensive everywhere.