Victoria Leitner
Courbette Pomeranians
 |
| Left to Right: Song, Curtsy, Fin, and Margin |
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is the smallest of the spitz dogs. It has been bred down in size over the past 100 years plus from a 30 pound dog to a 5 pound, toy dog. Its original colors were black, white and wolf sable. Now, the Pom is seen in almost every coat color known in dogdom. Since breeders have manufactured and miniaturized this breed, many genetic and congenital problems are seen. The Pom , as with many toy breeds, have dental abnormalities. The bone structure of the jaw just doesn't support good dentition. As a result, adults lose teeth easily and at a young age. Good dental hygiene is of the utmost importance. Also commonly seen are slipping patellas (knee caps), collapsing tracheas and heart problems. A hairless condition known as Alopecia X or BSD (black skin disease) seems to be on the rise. Its cause is unknown but most breeders believe it to be genetic. The condition itself is not a serious medical problem, as an otherwise healthy Pomeranian can become bald. It is diagnosed as such after all other causes of hairlessness have been tested for and eliminated as the cause.
Owners of Pomeranians and other toy breeds need to be protective guardians in the care of their dogs. Small children and large dogs can unintentionally hurt or maim tiny dogs. Small children should never be allowed to run or carry a toy dog for fear of dropping, smashing or falling on the dog. Poms are, by nature, usually bold, brave and adventuresome. They do not know that they are not big dogs. Pomeranians sometimes have a bad rap as being nippers. This is usually due to being handled too roughly. Pomeranians can be trained rather easily if done intelligently, but they cannot handle physical corrections. They respond well to food and toy rewards. Pomeranians are barkers and can sometimes be difficult to housebreak. A crate or small enclosure is of value to encourage “quiet” and for reducing the possibility for accidents in the house. Weekly or bi weekly brushing is recommended to prevent matting. The Pom generally blows undercoat twice a year and needs methodical combing at that time. Frequent bathing is not recommended if a regular brushing/combing regimen is implemented.
Pomeranian owners should be careful with drug and vaccination protocols. A rule of thumb is to administer only one drug, vaccine, worm/flea medicine, etc. at a time. For example: If a Pom is to be vaccinated for rabies, do not worm or apply flea medication at the same time. It is very easy to overdose a toy dog. Also, a toy dog should be fed at least twice a day, as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is often seen, especially with young puppies. Many people keep honey or Karo syrup on hand to apply to the tongue of a dog that has collapsed due to a hypoglycemic “attack”. If a Pom is to spend much time outside in the summer, do NOT shave or clip its body coat. The belly area only can be shaved for better air circulation, but the double coat protects him/her from the sun.
Pomeranians, like most dogs, enjoy being with their owners and are very loyal companions. They enjoy doing almost any doggie sport or activity imaginable. Since they are so small, they are very portable. Most are very easily trained and are a fairly active breed. Owners need to be diligent in looking out for possible dangerous situations for them however. Sadly many Poms and toy dogs fall victim to predators both canine and others. If basically healthy, Pomeranians live well into their teens. Beware! It is very difficult to own just one!
This article originally appeared in the January, 2013 edition of the Holistic Touch Therapy Newsletter.