Pomsky: The Pomeranian - Husky mix

Pomskies have yet to be recognised by any official breed organisation, although the Pomsky Club of America regularly campaigns for its inclusion.

To understand this mix better, you should start by learning about the two parent breeds!

The Pomeranian

Pomeranians are one of the best lap dogs in the world! These small dogs are active and energetic. They love nothing more than to be around their owners, especially if they're getting lots of fuss. Pomeranians have big personalities though, so don't let that cute face fool you! Proper training has to start early - patience and consistency is key if you don't want a dog who nips and/or yaps whenever the opportunity presents itself. Grooming is also a big commitment in this breed. You must brush through that thick coat every single day to avoid matting. However, for the right dog parents, this dog can be an extremely loving and loyal companion.

The Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are real dogs - they're definitely not lap dogs! They need space, exercise, and owners who can appreciate their independent, stubborn, and sometimes aloof personality. Though highly intelligent, Huskies are bright enough to outsmart you, so they do best with experienced owners. This dog would only do well within an extremely active family who can provide a minimum of 2 hours off-leash exercise a day. However, for the right owners, these dogs can be wonderful companions. Aside from the fact that they are drop-dead gorgeous, they are also extremely driven, loving, gentle, and have a particular affinity for children.

Breeding and prices of the Pomeranian- Husky cross

Good question! Huskies are three times the size of a Pomeranian. This would obviously make natural breeding very difficult, and also dangerous. Therefore, Pomskies are bred by artificial insemination. This is a very expensive and time-consuming process, and breeders are quick to pass the cost onto potential owners. Be prepared to pay somewhere between £800-£2000. Prized Pomsky puppies can fetch as much as £5,000. Popular breeds and designer dog breeds can give rise to many unscrupulous breeders, so before buying a puppy, make sure you're working with a reputable breeder.

Height, weight, and appearance of the Pomeranian - Husky cross

Take a big dog, mix in some little dog DNA, and you’ll end up with a small to mid-sized pooch like the Pomsky. Even when fully grown, a Pomsky is unlikely to weigh more than 30 pounds.

Like most crossbreeds, Pomskies inherit a mixture of their parent breed features. Most are born with the Husky's thick furry coat, although this can appear in many different colours and combinations. They also tend to have the Husky's striking blue eyes, or eyes of two different colours.

Despite its relatively small size, the Pomsky has the measured and graceful gait of the Husky. They appear alert, active, and always ready for action.

Pomsky personality and temperament

The Pomsky is a bit of a character. Their lively and playful natures, combined with their very cute faces, make them great companions and a welcome addition to any family. However, some Pomskies tend to latch onto a favoured family member. While this isn't necessarily a problem, it can lead to feelings of jealousy and separation anxiety if the Pomsky isn't fully socialised with all family members, and taught proper manners from a very young age!

Both the Pomeranian and the Husky can be quite vocal. The Pomeranian is a bit more “yappy” and Huskies are well known for their howling and high-pitch whining. Unsurprisingly, Pomskies like to make a lot of noise, especially if they're not happy!

Pomsky exercise and training needs

Huskies need loads of exercise; Pomeranians need nowhere near as much. This means any Pomsky will require something in between. At least one active 1-hour walk a day is essential, but owning a Pomsky will not be a physical challenge for most owners.

Both parent breeds are intelligent. They also have a tendency to be a bit stubborn; training and socialisation need to start ASAP, and a little patience will be required. Pomskies can also become quite nervous around strangers, a trait inherited from the Pomeranian. Try introducing them to as many people as possible during their early years. Short little meet and greets in a controlled environment will help them overcome their natural nervousness.

Pomsky health issues

Pomskies can inherit any of the common medical issues from the Husky and Pomeranian. This makes them genetically predisposed to the following conditions:

• Allergies
• Hip dysplasia
• Dislocated knees (luxating patellas)
• Eye problems
• Epilepsy
• Heart disease
• Collapsing trachea
• Dental problems (make sure to brush their teeth regularly!)

Pomsky grooming requirements

Both Pomeranians and Huskies have thick double coats, so you should expect your Pomsky dog to be pretty fluffy! Depending on how long your Pomeranian - Husky mix's coat is, you'll need to brush it anywhere from a few times a week to every single day! Get your vacuum ready, because this mix sheds a lot!

Is the Pomsky a good choice for first-time owners?

Yes, but only if you can make the right commitment. A Pomsky won't take up much space, but they still require a large amount of effort and time from their owners, especially during their formative years. You might think that this dog is right for you, but you need to make sure that you’re right for this dog.

Caring for a Pomeranian - Husky cross puppy

Pomsky puppies are curious and boisterous little creatures. They love playing and exploring and will soon find themselves in some kind of mischief when left alone in the wrong environment. This means you need to “puppy proof” your home well in advance of their arrival. Tie up all wires and electric cables - Pomsky puppies love chewing on new things! Keep the house free of clutter, and tidy up the back garden too. Some plants and shrubs can be poisonous to dogs, but it won't stop a Pomsky nibbling on a few leaves.

Pomskies are becoming more and more popular, but it seems as if many owners are not aware of the commitment involved in owning such a dog - many Pomskies end up in shelters and rescue centres, mainly because of irresponsible pet ownership. They may look cute, but the decision to own a dog needs to be made with the head as well as the heart. So think carefully!

Did you enjoy reading about the Pomsky? You will definitely enjoy reading about these other mixed-breeds:

• The American Bulldog cross Staffy
• The Border Terrier cross Jack Russell
• The Cavapoo
• The Chihuahua cross Pug
• The Chi-poo
• The Cockapoo
• The French Bulldog cross Pug
• The French Bulldog cross Staffy
• The German shepherd – Labrador crossbreed
• The Goberian
• The Goldador
• The Goldendoodle
• Golden retriever x German shepherd
• The Husky cross Collie
• The Husky cross Staffy
• The Horgi
• The Jack a Bee
• The Jackshund
• The Jack Russell cross Chihuahua
• The Jack Russell cross Pug
• The Jack Tzu
• The Labrador Collie crossbreed
• The Labrottie
• The Labsky
• The Lhasapoo dog
• The Patterjack
• The Pom a Pug
• The Pomchi
• The Pugapoo
• The Puggle
• The Pug-zu
• The Shichi
• The Shichon
• The Staffador
• The Staffy cross Jack Russell
• The Rottsky