Despite weighing less than a bag of flour, the Pomeranian genuinely believes it’s the biggest dog in the room — and that unwavering confidence is precisely what makes this breed so captivating. These pocket-sized descendants of Arctic sled dogs have charmed everyone from Queen Victoria (who famously downsized the breed) to modern-day celebrities, yet they remain surprisingly misunderstood by many first-time owners who expect a quiet lapdog and get a spirited, opinionated companion instead.
The Pomeranian dog has held its place as one of Australia’s most popular toy breeds for decades, and it’s easy to see why. Behind that spectacular fluffy coat and fox-like face lies an alert, intelligent dog with enough personality to fill a Great Dane. Whether you’re already smitten with this breed or simply curious about what Pomeranian ownership really involves, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Pomeranian Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Toy Group |
| Origin | Germany/Poland (Pomerania region) |
| Size Category | Toy (Small) |
| Height (Adult) | 18-24 cm at the shoulder |
| Weight (Adult) | 1.8-3.5 kg (ideal show weight: 1.8-2.5 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Coat Type | Double coat — dense undercoat with long, harsh outer coat |
| Exercise Needs | 30-45 minutes/day |
| Trainability | 3.5/5 — Intelligent but can be stubborn |
| Good with Children | Better with older children (fragile size) |
| First-Time Owner Suitable | 3.5/5 — Good with research and commitment |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $3,000 – $8,000+ |
Data sourced from ANKC Breed Standards and Dogs Australia registry.¹
History of the Pomeranian
The Pomeranian’s ancestors were anything but tiny. According to the American Kennel Club’s breed history archives, these dogs descend from large Spitz-type sled dogs from the Arctic regions, with the breed taking its name from Pomerania — a historical region spanning parts of modern-day Germany and Poland.² Early Pomeranians weighed around 13-14 kilograms, a far cry from today’s pocket-sized companions.
The dramatic downsizing began in the 18th century when the breed caught the attention of European royalty. Queen Victoria became particularly influential after falling in love with a small Pomeranian named Marco during a visit to Italy in 1888. She actively bred smaller specimens, and within her lifetime, the breed’s average size decreased by approximately 50 percent.
Pomeranians arrived in Australia during the early 20th century and quickly established themselves as popular companions. Today, they consistently rank among the most registered toy breeds with Dogs Australia, prized for their portable size and larger-than-life personalities.
Pomeranian Temperament
The Pomeranian temperament defies what you might expect from such a small dog. These are not timid, nervous creatures content to sit quietly in your handbag. Pomeranians are bold, curious, and remarkably self-assured — traits that can be either delightful or challenging depending on your expectations.
- Bold and Confident: Pomeranians have no awareness of their small size. They’ll approach much larger dogs, alert you to every visitor, and generally act as if they’re in charge of the household.
- Alert and Watchful: That spectacular hearing means nothing escapes their notice. While this makes them excellent watchdogs, it also means they’re prone to barking at every sound, sight, and suspicious leaf.
- Intelligent and Curious: These dogs learn quickly and enjoy mental stimulation. However, that intelligence also means they’ll find creative ways to get what they want if you’re not consistent with training.
- Affectionate: Despite their independent streak, Pomeranians form strong bonds with their owners and genuinely enjoy companionship. They’re not typically velcro dogs, but they want to be nearby.
- Spirited and Playful: Even adult Pomeranians maintain a playful, puppy-like energy. They enjoy games, toys, and showing off their tricks.
Many Pomeranian owners report that their dog has distinct “opinions” about everything from meal times to which family member gets their attention. This isn’t stubbornness so much as personality — Poms know what they like and aren’t shy about expressing it.
This varies significantly between individual dogs, but generally, Pomeranians do better with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Their tiny size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from enthusiastic toddlers, and some Pomeranians may snap if handled roughly. Families with young children should supervise all interactions and teach kids to sit on the floor when playing with the dog rather than carrying them around.
Pomeranians can coexist happily with other dogs and cats, particularly when raised together. However, their confident nature sometimes leads them to challenge much larger dogs — a potentially dangerous situation given the size mismatch. Your experience may differ, particularly if introducing an adult Pomeranian to existing pets, so careful, supervised introductions are essential.
If your Pomeranian starts barking at every passing pedestrian, delivery truck, and neighbourhood cat, don’t panic — this is extremely common and usually responds well to training. The key is teaching a “quiet” command early and rewarding calm behaviour rather than accidentally reinforcing the barking by giving attention (even negative attention) when they sound off.
As one Sydney breeder put it: “Pomeranians are convinced they’re royalty, and honestly, who are we to argue? They’ve been charming queens and celebrities for centuries. The rest of us are just staff.”
Pomeranian Health Issues
If you’re worried about Pomeranian health problems, you’re being a responsible prospective owner — understanding potential issues helps you choose an ethical breeder and catch problems early. The good news is that well-bred Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs with impressive longevity for their size. However, certain conditions occur more frequently in this breed.
This is the most common orthopaedic issue in Pomeranians, occurring when the kneecap slips out of its normal position. According to Vets, luxating patella affects many toy breeds due to their skeletal structure.³
Symptoms: You might notice your Pom occasionally skipping, holding up a back leg, or suddenly becoming three-legged for a few steps before walking normally again.
Treatment: Mild cases (Grade 1-2) may only require weight management and joint supplements, while severe cases (Grade 3-4) often need surgical correction ($2,000-$5,000 AUD per knee).
Prevention: Ask breeders for patella grading on parent dogs.
This progressive condition causes the windpipe’s cartilage rings to weaken and flatten, resulting in a distinctive “honking” cough, especially during excitement or exercise.
Management: Many Pomeranians live comfortably with mild tracheal issues through management strategies: using a harness instead of a collar, maintaining healthy weight, and avoiding respiratory irritants.
Treatment Cost (AUD): Medication ($50-$150/month) or surgery ($3,000-$6,000) for severe cases.
Pomeranians are particularly prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Without proper care, periodontal disease can develop early, leading to pain, tooth loss, and potential organ damage from bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Prevention: Daily brushing, appropriate dental chews like Oravet or Greenies, and professional cleanings ($400-$800 AUD) every 1-2 years.
This cosmetic condition causes progressive hair loss and skin darkening, typically starting around the hindquarters and trunk while sparing the head and legs. While not painful or life-threatening, it can be distressing for owners. The exact cause remains unclear, and treatment options (including melatonin and various medications) have variable success. Affected dogs should not be bred.
Pomeranian puppies and very small adults are susceptible to dangerous drops in blood sugar, especially if they miss meals, exercise strenuously, or become stressed.
Symptoms: Weakness, trembling, disorientation, and in severe cases, seizures.
Prevention: Feeding small, frequent meals (especially for puppies) and keeping honey or glucose gel on hand for emergencies.
Pomeranian Lifespan & Longevity Tips
The average Pomeranian lifespan is 12-16 years, making them one of the longer-lived dog breeds. Their small size contributes to this impressive longevity — toy breeds generally outlive larger dogs by several years.⁴
Longevity Tips:
- Maintain a lean body condition — excess weight stresses joints and organs
- Prioritise dental care from puppyhood onwards
- Schedule annual vet check-ups (twice yearly for seniors over 8)
- Protect from temperature extremes — Poms overheat easily
- Use a harness rather than collar to protect the trachea
Veterinarians recommend establishing a relationship with your vet early, as consistent preventive care throughout your Pomeranian’s life significantly contributes to longevity.⁵
Pomeranian Grooming Guide
One of the most common questions about Pomeranians is: do Pomeranians shed? The answer is yes — significantly. That magnificent double coat requires consistent maintenance, and you’ll find fluff on your furniture, clothes, and occasionally in your coffee. Pomeranians “blow” their undercoat seasonally (typically once or twice yearly), during which shedding becomes truly impressive.
Grooming Schedule Table
| Task | Frequency | Time | Tools/Products |
| Brushing | 3-4 times weekly | 15-20 mins | Pin brush, slicker, comb |
| Bathing | Every 3-4 weeks | 30-45 mins | Dermcare or PAW shampoo |
| Teeth Brushing | Daily (essential) | 2-3 mins | Dog toothpaste, finger brush |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2-3 weeks | 10 mins | Small dog clippers/grinder |
| Professional Groom | Every 6-8 weeks | 1-1.5 hours | $60-$100 AUD |
Important: Never shave a Pomeranian’s coat. Their double coat provides insulation in both hot and cold weather, and shaving can permanently damage the coat texture or cause it to grow back patchily (post-clipping alopecia). Light trimming for tidiness is fine, but leave the length intact.
Pomeranian colours span an impressive range: orange (the most common), black, white, cream, chocolate, blue, sable, parti-colour, and the striking merle pattern. Many puppies experience colour changes as they mature — that dark puppy may lighten considerably, while a pale pup might develop richer tones.
Pomeranian Exercise Needs
Despite their small size, Pomeranians are active dogs who need more exercise than many people expect. The most vet recommends that all dogs receive daily physical activity appropriate to their breed and size.⁶ For Pomeranians, this means 30-45 minutes of activity daily, split between walks and play sessions.
First-time Pomeranian owners are often surprised by how much energy these little dogs have. They’re not content to sit on a cushion all day — they want interaction, games, and adventures, even if those adventures happen mostly indoors.
If your Pomeranian starts spinning in circles, barking excessively, or getting into mischief around the house, that’s often a sign of insufficient stimulation. The solution isn’t necessarily longer walks (their little legs tire quickly), but rather more mental enrichment: puzzle feeders, training sessions, and interactive toys work wonders.
Ideal Exercise Activities:
- Short walks (15-20 minutes, twice daily)
- Indoor play sessions with toys
- Trick training (excellent mental stimulation)
- Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats
- Supervised off-leash play in secure areas (watch for larger dogs)
Heat Warning: Pomeranians overheat easily due to their thick coats. In Australian summers, exercise early morning or evening, provide plenty of water, and watch for signs of heat stress including excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy.
Pomeranian Training Guide
Don’t be discouraged if your Pomeranian seems to have selective hearing during training — this breed is intelligent enough to learn quickly but independent enough to question why they should bother. The good news is that Pomeranians respond brilliantly to positive reinforcement, especially when training involves treats, praise, and feeling like they’ve impressed you.
The early socialisation is crucial for all dogs, particularly toy breeds who can develop “Small Dog Syndrome” if overly sheltered.⁷ Expose your Pomeranian puppy to various people, places, sounds, and (appropriate-sized) dogs during their critical socialisation window.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
| 8-12 weeks | Name, toilet training, handling, gentle socialisation | Basic recognition, comfort with touch |
| 3-4 months | Sit, stay, come, leash introduction, “quiet” command | Basic obedience, bark control begins |
| 4-6 months | Puppy classes, extended socialisation, tricks | Confident, well-socialised puppy |
| 6-12 months | Impulse control, reliable recall, advanced tricks | Well-mannered adolescent |
When your Pomeranian hits adolescence around 5-8 months, expect some testing of boundaries — they might “forget” commands they knew perfectly well or decide that barking is their new favourite hobby. The key is staying consistent with training, keeping sessions short and positive (5-10 minutes maximum), and remembering that this phase passes. Harsh corrections backfire with this sensitive breed.
Pomeranian Price & Costs
Understanding the true cost of Pomeranian ownership helps you prepare financially for this 12-16 year commitment. Pomeranian dog prices in Australia are notably higher than many breeds due to small litter sizes (typically 1-3 puppies) and breeding challenges.⁸
Initial Costs:
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
| Puppy Price (Registered Breeder) | $3,000 – $8,000+ |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $300 – $600 |
| Initial Vet Check + Vaccinations | $200 – $400 |
| Desexing | $250 – $500 |
| Essential Supplies (bed, crate, bowls, harness, etc.) | $300 – $600 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $4,050 – $10,100+ |
Annual Ongoing Costs:
- Quality Dog Food: $500 – $900 (small dogs eat less, but feed premium brands like Advance or Ivory Coat)
- Vet & Preventatives: $400 – $700
- Professional Grooming: $420 – $700 (approximately 7 visits/year)
- Pet Insurance: $400 – $900
- Dental Care (professional cleaning): $400 – $800 every 1-2 years
- Toys, Treats & Miscellaneous: $150 – $300
- TOTAL ANNUAL: $2,270 – $4,300
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $35,000 – $65,000+ over a 14-year lifespan (including initial costs and potential emergency care)
A Note on “Teacup” Pomeranians: Beware of breeders advertising “teacup Pomeranians” at premium prices. This is not a separate breed or variety — it’s a marketing term for undersized dogs who often have serious health problems. Ethical breeders aim for the healthy breed standard (1.8-3.5 kg), not extreme miniaturisation.
Finding Your Pomeranian:
Find registered breeders through the Dogs Australia Breeder Directory or state breed clubs like the Pomeranian Club of Victoria or Pomeranian Club of NSW. Always visit premises, meet parent dogs, and verify health testing.
Consider adoption through PetRescue or breed-specific rescue groups. While Pomeranian puppies rarely appear in rescue, adult Poms occasionally need rehoming due to owner circumstances.
Is a Pomeranian Right for You?
The perfect Pomeranian owner appreciates big personality in a small package and doesn’t mind a dog with opinions. Whether you’re a single professional, a couple, or a family with older children, Pomeranians adapt well to various living situations. They suit apartment dwellers particularly well, provided barking is managed through training.
- Home Size: Excellent for apartments and units; adapts to any home size
- Yard: Not essential — indoor play and short walks suffice
- Climate: Tolerates cooler climates well; requires management in Australian heat (air conditioning, avoiding midday exercise)
This can feel overwhelming, but being honest about challenges upfront saves heartbreak later.
- Families with toddlers or very young children (fragility and potential snappiness)
- Those who want a quiet, undemanding dog
- Anyone unable to commit to regular grooming
- Owners who work very long hours without dog care arrangements
- People living in apartments with strict noise restrictions (barking can be an issue)
Perfect for: Individuals and families wanting a spirited, portable companion with loads of personality. If you appreciate a dog who will make you laugh, keep you company, and convince you they’re running the household, the Pomeranian delivers.
Think twice if: You have very young children, need a very quiet dog, or aren’t prepared for regular grooming and dental care commitments.
First-time owner rating: Suitable with research (3.5/5) — Their intelligence and adaptability make them manageable for dedicated first-timers, but their training quirks and grooming needs require commitment.
Pomeranian FAQs
Are Pomeranians good for first-time owners?
Pomeranians can be suitable for first-time owners who research the breed thoroughly and commit to consistent training. Their intelligence makes them trainable, but their independent streak requires patience. Key challenges include managing barking, maintaining the coat, and understanding their sometimes stubborn personality.⁹
Do Pomeranians shed a lot?
Yes, Pomeranians shed moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal “coat blows” (typically twice yearly). Regular brushing minimises loose hair around your home, but you should expect some fluff on furniture and clothing. They are not hypoallergenic.
How much exercise does a Pomeranian need?
Pomeranians need approximately 30-45 minutes of exercise daily, typically split between two shorter walks and indoor play sessions. They tire more quickly than larger breeds, so watch for signs of fatigue. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is equally important.
How long do Pomeranians live?
The average Pomeranian lifespan is 12-16 years, making them one of the longer-lived dog breeds. Good nutrition, regular veterinary care, dental health maintenance, and protecting them from injury all contribute to longevity.
How much does a Pomeranian cost in Australia?
Pomeranian puppies from registered, health-tested breeders typically cost $3,000-$8,000+ AUD. Prices vary based on lineage, colour (some rare colours command premiums), and breeder reputation. Be wary of significantly cheaper puppies, which may come from puppy farms or have health issues.
Are Pomeranians good with children?
Pomeranians generally do better with older children (8+) who understand gentle handling. Their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from toddlers, and some Pomeranians may snap if handled roughly or startled. All interactions should be supervised, regardless of the child’s age.
Do Pomeranians bark a lot?
Pomeranians have a reputation as barkers, and it’s well-earned. They’re alert dogs who announce visitors, passing pedestrians, suspicious noises, and sometimes nothing at all. However, barking can be significantly reduced through consistent training from puppyhood. Teaching a “quiet” command is essential.
How big do Pomeranians get when fully grown?
A full grown Pomeranian typically weighs 1.8-3.5 kg and stands 18-24 cm at the shoulder. They reach their adult size around 12 months, though coat fullness continues developing until approximately 2 years of age. “Teacup” sized dogs (under 1.5 kg) often have health problems and aren’t a separate variety.
What’s the difference between a Pomeranian and a teacup Pomeranian?
There is no separate “teacup Pomeranian” breed — this is a marketing term used for undersized Pomeranians that fall below the healthy breed standard. These extremely small dogs often suffer from more health problems including hypoglycaemia, fragile bones, and organ issues. Responsible breeders avoid breeding for extreme miniaturisation.
Primary Sources:
- Dogs Australia (ANKC) — Official Pomeranian breed standard and registration data (dogsaustralia.org.au)
- American Kennel Club (AKC) — Pomeranian breed history archives (akc.org)
Veterinary & Health Sources:
- VCA Hospitals — Luxating Patella in Dogs (vcahospitals.com)
- PetMD — Dog Lifespan by Breed Size (petmd.com)
- Australian Veterinary Association — Pet Care Guidelines (ava.com.au)
Australian-Specific Sources:
- RSPCA Australia — Exercise and Enrichment Guidelines (rspca.org.au)
- American Kennel Club — Puppy Socialisation Guidelines (akc.org)
- PetSure (Bow Wow Meow) — Australian Pet Ownership Cost Data
- Dogs Australia breed clubs and professional trainer recommendations