Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
Other names: Deutscher Spitz, Wolfspitz, Keeshond, Pomeranian, Toyspitz

There are five different sizes of the German Spitz dog, ranging from the smallest, the Toyspitz or the Pomeranian, to the largest, the Keeshond. They are all cheerful, jovial and affectionate but reserved around strangers, which makes them good guard dogs.
They are intelligent and docile, making them easy to train and suitable for many households, especially those with children.
Key facts about the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
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Origins and history
They are very old dogs that descend directly from the Canis familiaris palustris rutimeyer that lived in peat bogs in the Stone Age, and from the Spitz that existed in the Neolithic period in the lake cities. The German names of the different varieties are Wolfspitz, Grosspitz (large), Mittelspitz (medium), Kleinspitz (small) and Zwergspitz (dwarf). The FCI officially recognised the breed in 1957.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section
Section 4 : European Spitz
Physical characteristics of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
Adult size
Female : Between 7 and 22 in
Male : Between 7 and 22 in
The Wolfspitz measures on average 19 inches, the large Spitz one is 18 inches, the medium Spitz 13 inches, the small Spitz 10 inches and the smallest 8 inches at the wither.
Weight
Female : Between 7 and 44 lb
Male : Between 7 and 44 lb
Coat colour
Each variety is divided into sub-varieties according to their colour.
- Wolfspitz: grey.
- Large Spitz: white, brown or black.
- Medium and small Spitz: white, brown or black, orange, grey and other colours.
- Pomeranian: all colours are accepted.
The white German Spitz and the black German Spitz are not the most common colours but are nevertheless highly appreciated by breed lovers.
Type of coat
The coat is long.
The coat is smooth and dense, a thick undercoat, with a collar around the head and a thick plume on the tail.
Eye colour
Eyes are dark in colour.
Description
The head is reminiscent of that of a fox, with upright and triangular ears; the eyes are almond-shaped and the forehead broad and round. The muzzle is not very long and narrows from the skull to the tip of the nose. The legs are of medium length, well proportioned with the body which fits into a square, and is perfectly perpendicular. The tail is carried gracefully wrapped over the back.
Good to know
Famous historical figures were the proud owners of this much appreciated breed, such as Catherine of Russia, Marie-Antoinette, Mozart, Michel Ange and Emile Zola.
There are a lot of Pomeranian mixed breeds, discover 6 of the most famous ones.
Varieties
Temperament
Behaviour of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
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Pomeranian or miniature Spitz to adopt

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Compatibility
Price
The price of a German Spitz varies according to their origins, variety, age and sex. A dog registered with the KC are generally sold for around £670.
To look after a dog like the German Spitz, it will cost about £20 per month for the smallest and up to £35 for the largest.
Grooming
Despite appearances, maintaining the coat of this breed is not complicated but still requires special attention. The coat should be brushed at least once a week and backwards to reach the dog’s dense undercoat.
Frequent baths should be avoided to avoid damaging the protective and aesthetic qualities of the fur. A maximum of two grooming/baths per year is more than enough.
However, for shows, grooming should be carried out by a professional to respect the standard and to avoid distorting the appearance of the dog.
Shedding
Because of their thick coat, hair loss during the moulting period is significant; brushing should therefore be very frequent, even daily. The rest of the time, hair loss is moderate.
Nutrition of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
The dog food industry offers many quality products to meet the needs of the German Spitz. However, due to their rusticity, prepared dishes made from raw meat and fresh vegetables are recommended.
Whatever the size, this dog can be satisfied with one meal a day, preferably in the evening, with a daily ration adapted to daily activities.
Health of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz
Life expectancy
Life expectancy of a Deutscher Spitz is around 14 years.
Strong / robust
Far from being the fragile dog we imagine, this rustic dog is rather robust.
Withstand heat
Their thick coat protects them from both cold and hot temperatures. However, be careful not to let them be exposed to the sun for too long to avoid heat stroke.
Withstand cold
The double coat of this dog, composed of a beautiful outer-coat and abundant undercoat, gives them very good protection against the cold. The larger varieties can even live outdoors.
Tendency to put on weight
A particular attention has to be given to the food you give to your Spitz since these dogs tend to get fat quickly if their portions are not adapted to their daily physical activities.
Common illnesses
- Alopecia (skin condition)
- Tracheal collapse (respiratory tract disease)
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Pomeranian?
The price for a Pomeranian will vary according to their origins, variety (Keeshond, Giant Spitz, Medium Spitz, Small Spitz, Pomeranian or miniature Spitz), age and sex. If a dog is registered with the Kennel Club, the price will be around £670. If the dog isn't registered, the price is generally around £580.
Do Pomeranian like to cuddle?
Yes, Pomeranians love to cuddle. Historically they lived in packs and would cuddle to keep themselves warm, and show love and affection towards one another. So if you are looking for a loyal, loving and affectionate dog that you will cuddle all the time, the Pomeranian is the breed for you!
Are Pomeranians easy to train?
Pomeranians are easy dogs to train. Indeed, they love spending time and pleasing their owners so training is easy. As long as the owner is constent in the training sessions and uses positive reinforcement, then you'll have a happy and well behaved dog by your side.
Does the Pomeranian bark a lot?
Yes, although the Pomeranian is a small breed, it barks a lot. As well, their bark is high pitched and powerful, and if they hear a unfamiliar noise or meet a stranger, you'll be sure your Pomeranian will let you know.
It would help to train your dog to stop barking when you ask him too.
How long do Pomeranian dogs live for?
The lifespan of a Pomeranian dog is between 12 to 16 years old.