Small, adorable and loving, the Pomeranians, also known as German Spitz and Lulu, have conquered the hearts of Brazilians. The unique and abundant coat, the fox head with alert eyes and the small pointed ears, guarantee it unique characteristics.
Veterinarian Natália Lopes, from ROYAL CANIN Brasil, prepared a survey with the main curiosities to guide those in love with the breed.
Descended from the arctic regions of Iceland
The Pomeranian is descended from dogs originating in the Arctic regions of Iceland. It is a breed that has several characteristics similar to wolves such as, for example, small ears (to avoid frostbite) and insulating and dense undercoat (to keep warm and protect them from the cold).
Specific sensitivity
The Pomeranian breed has some specific sensitivities, among them the dental one, since the milk teeth often persist when the permanent teeth are born, which causes the accumulation of food residues and bacteria in the mouth of the still young dog. Another sensitivity, of genetic origin, is the dislocation of the knee joint (patellar luxation), which can predispose the dog to ligament damage and arthritis.
The fact that it has a dense coat can cause the skin to lose moisture, causing dryness and loss of hair shine. Finally, due to their miniature size, they have a tendency to constipation (harder and more dry stools). Due to these sensitivities, they need specific care such as a specific diet for the breed. It’s worth remembering that it’s important to consult the trusted vet so he can indicate the best food for each pet.
behavioral profile
Excellent companions, in addition to being intelligent, active and protective, the Pomeranian is a very docile breed that loves to play and exercise. He is always attentive, lively and exceptionally devoted to his tutor.
With visitors they can behave suspiciously, so from puppies they need to be encouraged to socialize. But this is the same reason they are the ideal watchdog for the home. While easily trainable, this intelligent breed can also have an independent streak. If well trained (so as not to bark excessively) and socialized, the Pomeranian will happily get along with other people and dogs.
Its good adaptation to different climates, robustness, appearance and longevity are attributes that have conquered thousands of people around the world. The average lifespan of the breed is 13 to 16 years.
five different sizes
With five different sizes, ranging from 18 to 55 cm, and a range of coat colors, the Pomeranian, or German Spitz, is a breed of incredible diversity. The five varieties of the German Spitz are known separately as Toy Spitz, Miniature Spitz, Medium Spitz, Giant Spitz and Wolf Spitz. In non-German speaking countries, Wolf Spitz are known as Keeshonds and Toy Spitz as Pomeranian.
lush coat
Pomeranians captivate by the beauty of their coat. Impressive is the kind of mane around the neck (“ruff”) and the bushy tail boldly carried over the back. The long, smooth outer layer provides protection from external environmental factors such as rain.
The inner layer acts like a cotton covering the skin, being responsible for maintaining body temperature. For this reason, the Pomeranian’s coat should never be shaved.
To take care of this sumptuous coat, it is important to have the hair trimmed by a professional every two months and brush the animal regularly, on average once a week, thus avoiding the formation of knots. Ideally, the dog should be used to taking care of this puppy and the process should be done in a delicate way so that it is a pleasant moment.
royal dogs
Queen Victoria of England was in love with these small dogs with pompous manes. The breed ended up becoming popular throughout Europe due to the fact that the majesty was not only a tutor to several Pomeranians, but was also one of the main exhibitors of the breed.
Outside Europe, the Pomeranian began to gain popularity in 1892, when the first dog of the breed was registered in the book American Kennel Club (AKC), considered one of the largest genealogical registration clubs for purebred dogs in the world, and the largest and most oldest in the United States.
Even so, recognition actually came only in 1900. From then on, the breed began to participate in competitions and exhibitions until today, with these adorable puppies leading the ranking of most registered in Brazil.