Titan In A Teacup -- The Pomeranian Dog

 Looking for a new canine pal and have one of the toy breeds in mind? Then be sure to give more than a glance to the stylish Pomeranian -- that prancing little ringmaster who, just like a certain boy or girl from high school, knows exactly how good looking he is.

If you have the time to brush and comb his magnificent coat, the Pomeranian thoroughly deserves your consideration. A whole lot of dog in a small package, he fairly bursts with personality. When you walk him down the street, all eyes turn -- and not because he's blocking the light! -- but because of his bright eyes, "look at me" stride and gorgeous coat.

Most dog lovers don't know that the tiny Pom is related to the standoffish, handsome Chow, the lovely white Samoyed and others belonging to the group loosely known as "Northern dogs." Europe and especially Germany boasts several near relatives of the Pomeranian, including the white and black Spitzes.

So, then, why are Poms so small? The fact is, when they first appeared in America they were heftier, weighing in at about 15-20 pounds on average. In fact, around the turn of the twentieth century, prize-winning American Poms could be found at 25 to 30 pounds.

But their pint-sized destiny had already been determined. In the late 1800s, Queen Victoria became known as a Pomeranian fan, and like many celebrities, preferred the smallest specimens. Sure enough, the breeders followed her lead, resulting in the tiny, mighty companions we have today.

Unsurprisingly, Poms are a special favorite of women, but they deserve real consideration in many homes thanks to their special mix of size, intelligence and beauty. Urban families without a fenced yard can greatly enjoy a Pom.

It may hardly tip the scales, but the Pom is a distinctive pocket pup with an alert expression, incredibly acute hearing, and almost limitless intelligence and eagerness to learn. What's more, Poms have more backbone than you might think (you may have to protect them from their own bravado if a large, aggressive dog approaches).

If you're almost set on a Pom, just don't forget that being a Pom owner means devoting time and care to its coat. They're so attractive and proud that their thick, showy coats deserve special attention, and that means more than a lick-and-a-promise brushing.
About the Author

Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by http://www.poodle-oo.com/ for small dog couture and home decor, small dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog.

 Blake Kritzberg

More Articles 

Eliminating Problem Dog Behaviors - Jumping And Roaming - Dawn Keadic
Every dog owner must eventually deal with some unwanted behaviors on the part of their four legged companions. Some of the most frequently encountered training problems with puppies and dogs alike are jumping on people and performing...

The Artful Dog Shopper - Tina Spriggs
I am a dog lover by nature. I have just always loved the little four legged fur balls. Another thing I have always loved is animal art. It could be photographs, paintings, statues or even dog cartoons. I don't really know why I like them, but I...

Will My Mother-in-Law's "Too Easy" House Rules Undo My Dog's Training? - Adam G Katz
Dear Adam: My family and I want to add our thanks-- to all the other thanks you constantly receive. You have produced a book that is SOOO easy to read, understand, follow, and with great analogies. I have read the book front to back. My concern...

Charming Trends in Dog Jewelry - Carolyn Schweitzer
Fashions owners and dogs can share. The wearing of charms dates back to 400 or 500 BC, when they were believed to hold special powers -- particularly the power of protection. By the 1890's charms had evolved into a fashion statement and a popular...

Bow Wow Bliss: Five Ways to Meditate with Your Dog - James Jacobson
Meditation is as simple as a walk in the dog park. Imagine sitting down with your dog. As you both begin to relax, your breaths become longer, less hurried. Your thoughts slow down until it seems like you are not thinking at all. If you and your...

Training Your Dog to Sit - Timothy Robinson
Training your dog to "sit" is probably the first thing you will train your puppy to do. I write puppy because you can start the training as soon as the puppy has settled in his new home. You might think this isn't that important, a dog knows how to...

How to Find a Certified Dog Trainer - Katie Brandt
Are you in the market for a dog trainer? Do you want your dog to learn from a top notch certified dog trainer? You may have dreams of seeing your dog in professional dog competitions and shows. Therefore, you need to have your dog trained by...

Dog Training Tips - The "Come" Command - Paul Johnston
Most dog owners can attest to the frustration, embarrassment and even danger when their dog decides to activate its selective hearing practices and ignores your command to 'come'. Here are some tips to teach your dog the rules. Let's start with a...

Flea Control With Cats and Dogs - Mark Smith
Fleas are the most common external parasite of pets in North America. Fleas are small wingless insects that use their specialized mouth to pierce the skin and siphon blood from their host. When a flea bites, it injects a small amount of saliva into...

Life long nutrition for your dog. - Jon Dunkerley
Life Long Nutrition By Jon Dunkerley (slaboflab) www.web-rover.com This article discusses two foods in paticual. For the puppy stage, Eagle Pack Puppy food and for the adult stage, Royal CaninLabrador Retriever 30 Puppy Nutrition When...