| Country of origin: | Germany |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Companion, performance sports |
| Size: | 8 to 11 in tall; 3 to 7 lbs |
| Longevity: | 14 to 16 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate |
| Training: | Challenge to housetrain |
| Grooming: | Moderate |
| Colors: | Orange, white, cream, sable, grey, blue, red-orange, brown, black |
Bred in Germany, and popularized elsewhere by Queen Victoria, the Pomeranian, or Dwarf Spitz, is a miniaturized version of the German Spitz. In its mind, it is still that larger breed, so it will challenge other dogs, even large ones, and makes a noisy watchdog. Also called the Loulou, the Pomeranian is an active and vibrant companion, good for family and city life. The long, straight coat with ruff and plumed tail is the breed’s most distinctive characteristic. Originally, the coat colour most often seen was white, but by reducing size, breeders also brought out the brown-toned coat colours that are now most popular. Poms are surprisingly amenable to early obedience training.
By the 1870s the Pomeranian was routinely shown in Britain, and 30 years later was recognized in the United States. This calm individual, being sprayed to maintain its “powder-puff” looks, is about to enter the ring at a championship dog show in London in 1925. The breed’s luxurious coat takes three years to reach maturity.