Discover 5 Pomeranian Breeds
↓ Keep reading to watch this amazing video
There is only one official Pomeranian breed. However, there are also variations such as "Teddy Pomeranian ". Sadly, these dogs are immoral. Breeders are usually in it for the money, charging premium prices for dogs that are more likely to suffer from various medical conditions.
It is important not to support these breeders as this will only fund their continued breeding and harm the dogs.
Below, we discuss five Pomeranian breeds and how to find an ethical Pomeranian breeder or rescue.
What is a Pomeranian?
The Pomeranian is a small dog, about 6-7 inches tall and 3-7 pounds. They are affectionate and can sometimes become clingy or have separation anxiety. They tend to be adaptable, loud, and furry!
This breed is popular for good reason. Pomeranians are cute and require moderate exercise, making them a good fit for many people's lifestyles.
However, they are not good for people who don't want to groom their dogs regularly or are away from home most of the time.
1. Fox-faced Pomeranian
Fox-faced Pomeranians are bred to follow the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard. In this case, that means a long nose and pointy ears.
Compared to the other Pomeranians on this list, these Pomeranians are considered a thoroughbred. However, it is always important to do a lot of research on breeders before purchasing a puppy from them, as backyard breeders and puppy mills far outnumber reputable breeders, even for fox-faced Poms.
2. Teddy Bear Pomeranian
The Teddy Pomeranian has a shorter nose, a rounder face, and large eyes close to the muzzle. They do not follow the AKC breed standard for Pomeranians.
The biggest problem with these dogs is their shortened muzzle. Thoroughbred Pomeranians have average-length (midbrain) noses, while Teddy Pomeranians have brachycephalic noses.
Dogs with brachycephalic noses struggle with everyday life and are prone to various health problems. They have trouble breathing, exercising, and maintaining body temperature.
Brachycephaly syndrome is common in these dogs. They have smaller nostrils, elongated bones, and a soft palate in the mouth and throat that can block the airway. They also have other abnormalities in their airways that impede their ability to breathe and can lead to other health problems.
3. Doll Pomeranian
Doll Pomeranians have shorter noses, but not as short as Teddy Bear Poms. Still, they can suffer from the same health problems mentioned above. Like teddy bears, the AKC does not accept doll Pomeranians that meet its breed standards.
These pups also have round faces and large, expressive eyes.
4. Teacup Pomeranian
Teacup Pomeranians are part of a trend of making dogs smaller. This is concerning because most breeders are more concerned with the size and "cuteness" of puppies than their health.
They are bred using the smallest or dwarf dogs in the litter. Puppies get smaller and smaller over time. Teacup Pomeranians weigh less than three pounds.
Teacup dogs usually die young because their organs don't develop properly. They are at high risk for heart disease, breathing problems, low blood sugar, luxated patella (when the kneecap slips out of position), arthritis, liver problems, seizures, and hydrocephalus (hydrocephalus).
5. Pomeranian Mix
In recent years, there has been an influx of "brand name dogs" or mixed breeds sold at premium prices. Some common Pomeranian mixes you may see include Pomchis (Pomeranian Chihuahua mixes), Yorkie-Poms (Yorkshire Terrier Pomeranian mixes) or Pomapoos (Pomeranian Poodle mixes).
Mixed breeds are not necessarily bad or unhealthy in and of themselves. The problem is that the only motivation people have for keeping these dogs is money. Most breeders do not breed for any other purpose and are not ethical.
That means they don't do genetic health testing, which ensures the mother dog doesn't pass on health conditions to the puppies. They may leave the dog in harsh environments, ignore them (especially the parents!), and not care where their pup ends up. This could lead to more dogs being locked up in shelters, neglected or mistreated.
The responsible way to adopt a mixed breed dog is to visit your local animal shelter or dog rescue. There are even rescues specifically for Pomeranians, often with both purebreds and mixes.
Pomeranian coat color
Now that we've discussed Pomeranian types, let's talk coat color!
According to the AKC breed standard, Pomeranians come in a variety of coat colors. These include:
- Black
- black and tan
- blue
- blue and tan
- blue merle
- chocolate
- chocolate and tan
- cream
- orange
- orange sable
- Red
- red sable
- white
- Wolf Sable
- Cream Sable
- beaver
- Tricolor
- blue sable
Pomeranians may also have the following markings on their coat:
- white
- Mel
- tan
- Tricolor
- spot
- sable
- irish marker
- Variegated
- mask
How to Find a Reputable Pomeranian Breeder
Remember, only Fox Face Pomeranians will be bred by reputable breeders.
Look for the following signs to make sure the breeder is reputable:
- waiting list. It's hard to wait, but reputable breeders won't produce more puppies than the homes they have. Before getting a dog, they had lined up their home. Breeders offering dogs today is a red flag.
- Genetic testing and ancestry. Reputable breeders can provide proof of their dog's pedigree. They also have a veterinarian who does genetic health testing to make sure the pups are healthy.
- Vet visit. Your breeder should be able to show evidence that the pups have received veterinary care such as vaccinations, deworming, and inspections.
- knowledge and honesty. Reputable breeders are knowledgeable about Pomeranians and breeding and will answer questions honestly.
- ask questions. No responsible breeder would give a puppy to anyone! They should have questions about your family and residence to ensure a fit.
- return policy. Reputable breeders never want their dogs to end up in a shelter. They have adopters sign a contract stating that they will return the puppy to the breeder if they ever need to go home.
- To be able to see mom. A reputable breeder will allow you to meet the bitch. They also allow you to see where the dog lives. It should be a clean home environment with plenty of space and food and water.
Dogs should not be in small crates, outdoors, or in overcrowded environments. If breeders want to meet in a neutral place, they may not be keeping their dogs in adequate conditions. - Don't sell multiple litters at once. Reputable breeders should not have more than a few litters at a time. If they sell various breeds or pups, they are probably a puppy mill.
in conclusion
We hope this article has helped you learn more about Pomeranians and decide if they are right for you. Remember that some breeders are just there for the money and will breed puppies that are in poor health, so be careful who you buy puppies from and what type of Pomeranian you buy.
And, of course, it's always great to adopt a puppy or dog from a rescue or shelter. There are many Pomeranians across the country who need new homes!
Next:
- Saw an alligator biting an electric eel with 860 volts
- The 15 Deepest Lakes in America
- Watch rare coyotes and bobcats now
More from AZ Animals
featured image
about the author
I'm an animal writer for four years with a focus on educational pet content. I wish our furry, feathered and scaly friends the best care! In my free time, I'm usually outside gardening or spending time with my nine rescue pets.
Thanks for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the 10hunting.com editorial team.