Miniature Spitz

Other name: Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a small dog with a huge personality. Originating in the Pomeranian region located between Germany and Poland, the Pomeranian has become much-loved and sought after around the world. With their charming appearance and playful personalities, Pomeranians make excellent companions.

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Life expectancy	The Miniature Spitz has a life expectancy of between 14 and 16 years
Temperament	Affectionate Playful Intelligent
Size	Small
Adult size	Female Between 7 and 9 in Male Between 7 and 9 in
Adult weight	Female Between 2 and 9 lb Male Between 2 and 9 lb
Coat colour	Black White Brown Blue Red Sand
Type of coat	Long
Eye colour	Brown
Purchase price	The Miniature Spitz costs between £1500 and £3500

Good to know

The Pomeranian is not a breed as such but a variety of the German Spitz, which comes in four size categories: miniature, small, medium and large.

More details about the Miniature Spitz

Miniature Spitz: Origins and history

The Pomeranian is a variety of the German Spitz, descended from arctic dog breeds such as the Samoyed. Pomeranians were originally bred in Central Europe, in a small region of the Baltic States called Pomerania. They became particularly popular in regions of Poland and Germany.

The breed is classified as a "toy" dog due to its small stature.

Miniature Spitz: Characteristics

Very affectionate

Pomeranians are very affectionate little dogs, who are very loyal and attached to their owners. They love affection and thrive with plenty of company.

Very playful

Pomeranians are energetic, lively and playful companions.

More or less calm

With enough mental and physical stimulation throughout the day, Pomeranians can learn to settle and relax indoors.

High intelligence

The breed is known for its intelligence. Bright and alert, Pomeranians pick things up very quickly.

Moderate prey drive

Pomeranians can have a suprisingly high prey drive, particularly if recall hasn't been trained from a young age.

Fearful of strangers

Pomeranians can be wary and vocal towards strangers. Early socialisation is essential, to prevent fearfulness in adult dogs.

Moderately independent

Loyal and attached to their people, Pomeranians are not typically very independent.

Miniature Spitz: Behaviour

Moderately tolerant of being left alone

Pomeranians can be trained to tolerate solitude, but they do not appreciate being left alone for extended periods.

Very easy to train

With consistency and patience, Pomeranians are easy to train, obedient companions. They respond best to positive reinforcement training.

Tends to be very vocal

Pomeranians are known to be very vocal, often using their voices to communicate with their owners. Early socialisation and plenty of enrichment will help prevent excessive barking.

Doesn't have a tendency to run away

Pomeranians do not have a tendency to run away. They much prefer to stick close to their family.

Can be destructive

Pomeranians can become destructive through boredom, if they aren't properly exercised on a daily basis.

Moderately food motivated

Pomeranians can be prone to weight gain. These dogs love treats and rewards, so their diet should be monitored to prevent obesity.

Very good watchdog

Pomeranians can be wary of new people, often barking to alert their owners to the presence of strangers. This makes them excellent watchdogs.

Training a Miniature Spitz

Pomeranians are small, intelligent and energetic dogs. It's crucial to start training your Pomeranian from a young age, with an emphasis on early socialisation with other dogs, people and exposure to a variety of situations. Because of their lively personalities, training sessions should be short, engaging and reward based.

Pomeranians respond well to positive reinforcement training. Teaching basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “heel” is important to establish structure, whilst patience and consistency are essential to prevent unwanted behaviour. Additionally, managing their energy through regular walks and play will help keep your Pomeranian happy and healthy.

Miniature Spitz: Lifestyle

Compatible with living in a flat

Pomeranians are well suited to apartment living, provided they have plenty of exercise and enrichment.

Needs a moderate amount of exercise

Regular games and daily walks will help keep your Pomeranian feeling their best.

Easy to travel with

With the right socialisation from a young age, Pomeranians make excellent travel companions.

Breed compatibility Miniature Spitz

Compatible with cats

Pomeranians typically get along well with cats, provided they've been socialised from a young age.

Compatible with other dogs

With the right training and careful introductions, Pomeranians usually enjoy the company of other dogs. Early socialisation is important, to prevent unwanted behaviour in adult dogs.

Compatible with children

Pomeranians are very affectionate and playful, making them compatible with children. Supervision is always recommended.

Compatible with senior owners

Pomeranians can be well suited to active seniors, who are able to meet their exercise and training needs. In the right home, they are affectionate, calm companions to the elderly.

Highly recommended for a first-time owner

Pomeranians make a good choice for first time owners, provided they have plenty of time and patience to commit to their socialisation and training.

Miniature Spitz: Purchase price

Pomeranian puppies can cost anywhere between £1,500-£3,500, depending on the bloodline, breeder and location of the litter. In addition to the initial cost, you will also need to factor in expenses for pet insurance, veterinary check-ups, parasite treatment, accessories, and a high quality diet.

Miniature Spitz: Shedding

Heavy !

Pomeranians shed a lot, especially during the moulting periods that occur twice a year. During these periods, shedding can be very significant, to the point that the dog can lose almost all of its fur. Daily brushing is essential, to remove dead hair and prevent matting.

Miniature Spitz: Health

Life expectancy

Pomeranians have an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years, which is relatively long for a dog of this size.

Strong / robust

Pomeranians are generally hardy, but they can be predisposed to breed specific health problems.

Vulnerability to hot weather

The Pomeranian does not tolerate high temperatures well.

Vulnerability to cold weather

Thanks to their thick coats, Pomeranians tolerate cold temperatures well.

Tendency to put on weight

The Pomeranian may be prone to weight gain if not properly fed and exercised.

Common illnesses

Active and resistant to the cold, Pomeranians are typically fairly healthy.

The most common diseases that affect this breed are:

Alopecia (skin condition) .
Tracheal collapse (respiratory tract disease) .

However, it is worth mentioning that they also have a tendency to gain weight. Genetics, health concerns and lifestyle can all influence the lifespan of this breed.