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Pomeranian dogs are tiny and fluffy, but they didn't always look this way, in fact these dogs, developed in Prussia, were once much larger weighing 30 pounds. It is Queen Victoria who is credited with making this breed popular in the late 1800's and also for breeding down the size. The breeds popularity has held and today they are loved as companions as well as show dogs.

The Pomeranian is part of the AKC Toy Group and although it was shown in the miscellaneous classification of the American Kennel Club from 1892 it gained its regular classification from 1900. In order to meet the AKC breed standard, a Pomeranian must be between 7 and 12 inches tall and weigh between 3 and 7 pounds. This breed can live to be 15 years of age.

This breed is recognized by it's fluffy fur, pointed ears that stand up and wedge shaped head With an intelligent expression, the Pom has dark, almond shaped eyes that twinkle, a nose that is dark or matches their coat and teeth that meet in a scissors bite. They also should have a distinctive feathered tail that fans forward of their backs. The neck and chest of the Pomeranian should have an abundant ruff. They have a solid or parti colored coat. Typical colors for the Pom are Red, Orange, White or Cream, Blue, Brown or Black.

Pomeranian dogs are lively, intelligent and eager to learn whilst being very loyal to those who have them. However, they can also be very willful, bold and on occasions temperamental. When trained with a kind but firm hand, Pomeranians are quick to learn and obedient pets.

The Pomeranian is a wonderful companion as well as great for showing because of their docile temper and affectionate nature. The Pomeranian is also an alert, curious and busy breed as well as being one of the most independent to be found in the AKC Toy Group. They don't require much exercise and are active indoors so a yard is not necessary to keep this breed happy.

The Pomeranian breed can be prone to skin problems, slipped stifle, heart problems, eye infections and dislocated patella. Also Pomeranians are prone to losing their teeth early and therefore it is recommended that you feed them dry food in order to keep both their teeth and gums in good condition and a regular visit to the vet's to have their teeth cleaned is a must for this breed.

The Pomeranian dogs crowning glory is his double coat which does require daily grooming. The coat should be brushed forward, starting at the head and parting it as you go. The undercoat is like fluffy cotton and prone to mats - the outer coat is longer and more silky. They also need to have their ears cleaned regularly as well as the area around their eyes.