Caring for My Pomeranian

Pomeranian dogs are an amazing breed. Originally guard dogs and herding dogs, this breed originated in Pomerania, a region of Germany and Poland in Europe. The average purchasing cost of a Pomeranian in 2017 ranges from 600 to 1500 dollars. Poms are known to shed, so they are not hypoallergenic. This means that if anyone in your household has allergies, this is not the dog for you. Poms are known for being smart and cute. My dog foxy, also known as "Terrie's Foxy Lady" (her registered name), is a wonderful dog. Just beware that the barking can get to some people. She really is just doing her job. So let's get to it—my life with a Pomeranian.

If these standard traits are okay with you, then consider owning a Pomeranian. Consider this list before you decide:

1. Personality: Lively, bold, and inquisitive—a prototypical "personality breed"
2. Energy Level: Somewhat active; Pomeranian's are playful and vivacious but also love to be lapdogs.
3. Good with Children: Better with supervision
4. Good with other Dogs: With supervision
5. Shedding: Seasonal
6. Grooming: Weekly
7. Trainability: Responds well, smart
8. Height: 7 inches to 1 foot tall
9. Weight: 3-8 pounds
10. Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
11. Barking Level: Barks when necessary

Like many of our animals, Foxy was a rescue. When she was only two months old I found her on an animal "buy and sell." I drove six hours just to see her. Her previous owner was allergic to her and couldn't keep her. I'm so glad we found her. Foxy owned my heart from the first time I saw her. She immediately took to our home in her own bossy way. Be prepared, if you have other animals that Pomeranians can be dominant. Foxy continued to train well and demonstrated a high level of intelligence. She adapted to the household quickly. Even though Foxy is a purebred, there are countless resources available to rescue a Pomeranian. Rescuing over purchasing from a breeder is highly recommended.

Foxy needs to be groomed on a regular basis. We live on a farm, so sometimes she gets groomed more often then normal. I recommend grooming at least once a week. We also always have her trimmed in the summertime (the heat is too much for her dense coat). You can let the coat grow out come fall (we live in the north so it gets cold and she needs the coat grown out for winter months). If you live where the seasons stay hot, you don't want to get this breed as they can have seizures from overheating. When Foxy lays flat out on the floor, I know it's time for a trim. I clip her ears, tummy, and bum in between going to the groomer to keep her clean and free of mats.

It is important that you provide everything your dog needs. Below, I've made a list of essential items. Foxy is so attentive to me and my family's needs and gives all the loving in the world. The least I can do is provide for her in return.

Recommended items:

• Dishes for food
• Grooming tools
• Clippers for nails
• A comb and a brush
• Collar and leash for walking
• A dish or container for water
• An occasional treat
• Dental cleaning materials (find dog-friendly toothpaste)
• A regular trip to the vet
• Time to run around and play

Even with the extra work and care, Foxy is a beautiful loving dog. Foxy makes me smile even when I don't want to. Some days she practically bounces off the walls with anticipation waiting for the grandchildren to get home from school. She is one of the smartest dogs I know. My life wouldn't be the same without her. Clearly, anyone who says diamonds are a girl's best friend has never owned a pom!