Pomeranians are just adorable little dog breeds that even Queen Victoria was so captivated with, leading to her owning several Poms. It’s no wonder that just like the rich and famous, many people are interested in owning this toy dog. However, let’s face the fact that being a pet owner is not all rainbows and bunnies. Owning a pet is a responsibility similar to taking care of a child. You are liable for your pet’s health and happiness. Some inexperienced owners may feel overwhelmed by the tasks and issues along the way. It would be heartbreaking if it would lead to regrets and even re-homing. No pet owner who loves their furry companion wants to see them suffer. But knowledge is power. So, before getting excited about Pomeranians, learning more about this breed can help you make an informed decision! Here are things you should be aware of and consider before taking the ownership plunge.
Know where you’re getting them.
Before deciding to buy a Pomeranian, consider visiting an adoption center first. There are plenty of animals in an adoption or rescue shelter that needs a new home. Most of these dogs are from owners who surrendered their pets because of a change in lifestyle or lack of time for them. You will be saving a dog’s life and giving it a new forever home if you get one from these institutions. Plus, adoption and rescue centers have more affordable fees compared to buying from a breeder.
However, if you decide to buy, it’s crucial that you only get your pets from ethical breeders who care about the dogs’ welfare. Avoid buying from puppy farms or puppy mills as they don’t care where their dogs go, and the dogs will most likely develop illness and behavioral problems later in life. To ensure that you get your Pomeranians from reputable breeders, ask as many questions as you can. They should also ask you questions to ensure that you are an appropriate owner. It’s best if you can personally evaluate the health and hygiene standards of the dogs. You might also find some pomeranian for sale online. But you should be extra keen on examining them to ensure that they can deliver superior puppies with clean bills of health and practice responsible breeding. Some online shops will have kennels overseas, so check the reviews to ensure that the dogs are under special care and well-nurtured.
Choosing to adopt or getting it from a breeder is a personal choice that requires a ton of research. Utilize all the resources available to help you find a rescue or breeder that offers healthy and ethically sourced Pomeranian puppies for you.
Meal planning is essential.
Pomeranians are very energetic even though they have a smaller size, and they are also prone to choking, so you’ll have to stay on top with a Pomeranian’s diet. One important thing to remember is feeding tiny pieces of dry food so that your pet can easily chew and swallow. Larger pieces can be a choking hazard for Pomeranians.
To make dry food more palatable, you can add high-quality canned food with plenty of protein and no filler. Giving a poor-quality diet to high-energy dogs, like Pomeranians, can cause digestive problems and inhibit absorption. You can also practice free-feeding to help your Pomeranian avoid becoming hypoglycemic. However, avoid this practice if your dog tends to overeat as it may cause obesity. If your dog tends to munch down his meal, only give food on a specific schedule.
You can also include high protein foods, like chopped boiled liver or chicken to their meals, and a few tablespoons of cottage cheese every other week. You should also avoid giving the common foods and ingredients listed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to protect your pom’s health. Food like chocolate, grapes, or others listed can cause serious health problems even if given in small amounts.
Poms require plenty of exercise and attention.
Pomeranian puppies are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise and attention. Your lifestyle should be able to keep up with these dogs to ensure that they are happy and healthy. You can start taking your Pomeranian out for exercise at least two weeks past its final round of shots. To ensure the best physical and emotional health, you can take your pom for two walks per day, at a slow pace for at least 20 minutes. Remember to use a dog harness instead of a leash to avoid any neck injuries and fur damage. Pomeranians enjoy the outdoors, but their general housing should be indoors. You should only exercise in an enclosed area and avoid letting them run loose.
Vet and grooming bills can get expensive.
Pomeranians are famous for their fluffy coats, and keeping it glorious comes with a price. You’ll need extra time to take care of their fur to avoid matting and minimize shedding. On the plus side, taking care and keeping their coat clean can quickly be done through regular brushing and bathing. Just use a hypoallergenic dog shampoo and comb the fur when it’s wet. You can take them to grooming salons for fur and nail trimming, avoid pests on their skin, bacteria in their face, and ear cleaning. Salons can help you keep your pet’s condition and shape.
You should also save up for vaccinations and check-ups in case any health issues arise. Poms are prone to health conditions, such as alopecia, cataracts, luxating patella, obesity, and tartar buildup. Regular vet check-ups and grooming are a vital step in catching problems early. Never hesitate to consult a professional if you are unsure whether your Pomeranian has a specific condition.
Takeaway
Owning a Pomeranian requires a lot of responsibility, and these responsibilities should not hinder or discourage you from getting one. Instead, practice being a responsible fur parent and adequately evaluate your mindset, lifestyle, and finances before taking the plunge. If you’re ready, taking care of a Pomeranian is a rewarding experience.
Author’s Bio
Courtney John is a freelance writer for animal and pet care for over a decade now. She is also a volunteer dedicated to animal rescue and welfare, working for different organizations all over town. She lives with her two adopted cats and rescue dog.
