The lifespan of a Pomeranian is 12 to 16 years. Of course, there are always exceptions. Some dogs live longer than the average lifespan.
What’s interesting is that most small dogs like the Pomeranian actually mature earlier than larger dogs. The best thing you can do to prolong the Pomeranian lifespan is to understand the health conditions they are vulnerable to.
When you know what to watch for, you are in a better position to catch potential problems early while they can still be treated.
Everything You Need to Know About the Pomeranian
Pomeranians are considered the ideal companion.
This breed dates back thousands of years to the time of Queen Victoria who had 35 Pomeranians of her own. These spunky little dogs always seem to have smile that tells the tale of how lovely they are with families.
Pomeranians were bred from the working dogs of the mid-18th century to be companions. Prior to that, they were bred larger and worked as sled dogs. Over time, the breed was bred down in size to become a suitable family dog.
Color Variations of Miniature Pomeranians
Original Poms were white, but as of today, the mini Pomeranians come in a variety of colors as the standard ones.
Pomeranians lovers particularly like the orange or red Pomeranians. It’s difficult to get a pure white Pomeranian. So, if you’re looking for this color, be prepared to do a lot of searching and expect them to be more expensive.
You can also find patterned Mini-Poms of sable or merle coloring.
Pomeranians – Large Personality in a Small Dog
Pomeranians (also known as teacup Pomeranian) are excellent companion dogs.
Weighing no more than 7 pounds, these little dogs are fun, frisky and friendly. Small children need to be taught how to behave around these dogs. Sometimes little children don’t understand that little dogs need to be handled much more gently than larger breeds.
These small-sized dogs are friendly and able to adapt even in the midst of other pets.
Poms are intelligent and will respond positively to training. They have that energy to brighten any negative energy.
With that in mind, it’s thought that male Pomeranians tend to be more affectionate. Their female counterparts, however, have a lot of energy and love to explore their surroundings.
This dog generally does well with older children.
Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?
No, Pomeranians are not hypoallergenic. They have a straight, double coat that requires moderate grooming.
American Kennel Club Classification
The AKC has classified Pomeranians as a toy breed. This breed is prevalent in the United States.
Activity requirements
In order to ward off weight gain, toy breeds like the Pomeranian need enough exercise. What’s enough exercise? Twenty minutes per day or less is sufficient. A short, brisk walk is enough for this little dog.
They are a popular dog breed loved by many do owners. These playful, small dogs share characteristics that make them highly popular including:
- Intelligence
- Playful
- Energetic
- Outgoing
- Friendly
- Alert
- Curious
- Busy
- Highly trainable
- Eager to please
- Sweet
- Gentle
- Sensitive souls.
Like any dog, the Pomeranian needs boundaries and rules. Pomeranian puppies require early socialization
They can get possessive of their toys and food. In fact, if you let this little pup get away with too much he/she will start ruling the house.
People love Pomeranians because of their attitude and flair. They’re a bundle of fun with a hint of attitude that pet lovers find irresistible
Health Issues in Pomeranians – What To Watch For
Like any purebred dogs, Pomeranians face different health risks.
Not every Pomeranian will develop all of the health problems noted below. However, it’s good to understand what problems may come up.
Once you’re aware of certain health risks, you can be better able to prevent them. Good nutrition, regular and appropriate exercise, and wellness checks with a veterinarian are all important.
When researching breeders, look for those with a great reputation who know what they are doing.
A good breeder will test for genetic health problems in the parent breeds. They should have a sound understanding of which health problems your little Pom-Pom could develop. In addition, a quality breeder should provide feedback and advice on how best to care for your new little puppy.
The following genetic predispositions could affect your Pomeranian at some point in his/her life. Luckily, many of the following health concerns are treatable and preventable.
12 – 16 years is a good lifespan for a dog. However, there are common health problems that can cause them to have a shorter lifespan. These include:
Dental Issues in Pomeranians
It’s not just Pomeranians that develop dental disease (also known as periodontal disease). It’s the most common disease in dogs and cats that can easily be prevented.
Tartar and plaque build-up can eventually lead to infections of the gums. What you might not realize is that, over time, the bacteria from rotting teeth enter the dog’s bloodstream when eating or drinking. A dog’s kidneys are designed to remove waste.
Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs over the age of 3 years, and between 50-90% of cats over 4 years.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
When oral bacteria enters the bloodstream, it affects distant organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Problems with vital organs can seriously shorten the life expectancy of a Pomeranian (or any other dog).
Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth from an early age can help offset some of the problems.
Heart Conditions in Pomeranians
Heart problems are the leading cause of death to matured Pomeranians dogs. Sadly, Pomeranians are at risk of multiple types of heart disease. They can occur early or later in life.
It’s vital for dog owners to have their Pomeranians regularly checked by a veterinarian. A veterinarian can check for signs of heart murmurs and other heart conditions. Annual heart health checkups may include:
- X-ray
- Echocardiogram (ECG)
Veterinarians should check for heart murmurs and other disease of the heart.
Routine vet checkups increase the chance of finding any problems as early as possible. Early detection of heart disease will enable the veterinarian to establish treatment options. These treatment options can help extend the life of your Pomeranian.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Pomeranians are at risk of PDA, a condition that prevents small blood vessels between two parts of the heart from closing the way it should.
When this happens, too much blood is carried to the lungs because there is nothing stopping it from flowing too quickly. This causes fluid build-up in the lungs and causes a strain on the heart.
Signs of PDA may be mild and include:
- coughing
- fatigue when exercising
- weight loss
- shortness of breath
- weak hind limbs
Heart Failure
Pomeranians tend to suffer from heart failure in the senior years. This type of heart disease in dogs is caused when the heart valves become weak or deformed.
At that point they can’t close tightly. Blood leaks around these weakened valves and puts a strain on the heart.
Sick Sinus Syndrome
This condition affects the body’s electrical system.
Normally, the body would signal the heart to beat. However, when that is unable to work properly, the signal is lost. As a result, the Pomeranian may develop a very low heart rate.
It’s important to ensure your Pomeranian remains a healthy weight and engages in regular exercise. Weight gain can leave your little dog with a variety of health problems.
Fatal Infections
All Poms are easily exposed to viral, bacterial and even fungal infections. The best way to prevent your little dog from succumbing to things like parvo, rabies or distemper is through vaccination.
Other types of infections may include things like canine influenza, leptospirosis and blastomycosis.
Tracheal Collapse
Any toy breed is susceptible to tracheal collapse. This occurs when the c-shaped rings of cartilage that keeps the trachea open begins to weaken. The more it weakens, the more it begins to collapse on itself.
This condition will severely affect your dog’s quality of life. It will make it impossible for your dog to eat solid food and requires daily care and monitoring.
Stomach and Intestine Infections
Generally, stomach and intestinal infections are known as gastrointestinal diseases. There are a wide variety of problems that can fall under this category including ulcers and pancreatitis.
Signs that your Pom Pom may be experiencing gastrointestinal problems include:
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- muscle weakness
Eye Problems
Pomeranians can inherit or develop various eye conditions including:
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in senior Poms. With this condition, the lenses of they will look cloudy instead of clear. Cataracts are common in senior dogs and are not considered life-threatening. Surgical correction is suggested for improved vision.
They can, however, affect quality of life. That said, most dogs adjust to diminishing vision.
Entropion
This is another condition that isn’t life-threatening. However, it can cause serious eye infections.
The reason is because entropion causes the eyelids to roll inward. This causes the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Over time, this can scratch the cornea leading to painful infection or eventual blindness.
Distichiasis
This condition causes extra hairs to grow inside the eyelid. They rub on the surface of the eye and cause siginificant pain.
Bone & Joint Problems in Pomeranians
Pomeranians could be susceptible to problems like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), patellar luxation, and spinal cord injuries.
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones can happen in any dog. They are not considered life threatening but need to be treated as quickly as possible.
Brain Damage
Middle-aged small breeds like Pomeranians are susceptible to a severe inflammatory disease known as granulomatous meningoencephalitis (GME).
Unfortunately, Pomeranians are more susceptible than other breeds.
This inflammatory disease affected is progressive and affects the central nervous system. Over time, it will cause irreversible brain damage.
Hydrocephalus in Pomeranians
Hydrocephalus, or water on the brain, occurs when fluid builds within the skull. This puts pressure on the brain leading to:
- seizures
- dulled mental function
- circling
- unusual or spastic gait.
Other health conditions that can affect the Pomeranian dog includes:
- autoimmune disease
- hip dysplasia
- inflammatory bowel disease
Caring For Your Pomeranian Puppy
Start your dog on healthy, quality food from the first day he/she begins eating solid food.
Your Pomeranian breed has a specific kind of food that is made for small breed dogs. These foods are formulated for little mouths and are easy to chew and digest.
The following are affiliate links from Chewy.com. All this means is that if you make a purchase after clicking a link below, I may earn a small commission.
Best Quality Toy Breed Dog Foods include:
ProPlan Toy Breed Purina Chicken & Rice Formula – Adult Toy Breed
ProPlan Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry – Puppy Toy Breed
Wellness Complete Toy Breed – Adult
Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic Dog Nutrition Chicken & Whitefish Meals
IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food – Puppy
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Conclusion
At the end of the day, any dog lover wants to do the best they can to ensure a long and happy life for their dogs. With a good diet, regular veterinary wellness checks, exercise, and a lot of love, your little Pomeranian is going to thrive.
Enjoy life with your feisty little dog and remember to watch for early warning signs of any health problems. Remember, early diagnosis is often the key to a good outcome.
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