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Size: The Pomeranian has a shoulder height of 18-28 cm (7-11 in) and weighs 1.5-3 kg (3-7 lbs). It has a wedge-shaped head, small, highly-set, erect ears, and almond-shaped eyes. Pomeranians have a short neck, small feet, and breed characteristic highly-set tail carried over the back, which may take a few months to grow out and flatten. Under its coat, the Pomeranian is somewhat similar in appearance to the Chihuahua. Its head and legs should be in proper proportion to the body.

Coat: The Pomeranian has a soft, fluffy outer coat and long, coarse undercoat. Pomeranians can be black, blue, or chocolate, all with and without tan, and cream, orange, or red, all solid or sable. Other possible colors are regular sable, chocolate sable, wolf sable, ‘Parti-color’ (usually white with another color), white, beaver, or brindle. In other words, just about anything but pink with blue stripes. The male Pomeranian sheds once a year and the female sheds when in heat or after giving birth.

Character: The Pomeranian is an energetic, intelligent dog which is eager to learn and very loyal to its family. It is active and confident. Pomeranians bark at suspicious activity and can be trained to make excellent watchdogs. They enjoy cuddling up for a nap or running around like crazy, sometimes both in the same minute.

Temperament: The Pomeranian gets along well with other dogs and household pets, especially if socialized at a young age. However, it does not tolerate mistreatment and will not enjoy too much attention from young children, as rough play may cause it to grow frustrated and bite. Pomeranians are suspicious of strangers, but will grow used to them when they understand that no danger is presented.

Care: The Pomeranian should be brushed several times a week and bathed only as necessary. Proper dental hygiene is also important; a weekly tooth brushing is required at a minimum, but daily brushing is optimal. The Pomeranian has a lifespan of 12-16 years, though some live as long as 20 years. Common health problems are luxating patella (dislocated knee), patent ductus arteriosus (a heart defect), and collapsed trachea. The Pomeranian may ‘reverse sneeze’, which is a fit of gasping and snorting to remove fluid caught under the palate. This is not dangerous, but may frighten the Pomeranian and its owner; it should be handled by talking to the Pomeranian calmly and gently rubbing its throat.

Training: The intelligence of the Pomeranian makes training fairly easy. Pomeranians must be trained when young not to bark excessively. Pomeranians should also be trained not to linger at their owner’s feet, for risk of being stepped on and injured.

Activity: Indoor games, short walks, and playtime in the yard are sufficient activity to keep a Pomeranian happy. It is well suited to apartment life.