Real Pomeranians?

[Kurby]

I want to know straight from the horse's mouth how pomeranians are with people.. with other animals.. personality.. everything. I read about them but I want to hear from experienced owners here n chaz hound how they are. All the poms ive seen are either too aggressive or too scared. Any info will be greatly appreciated.

 

[makenzie71]

Really depends per dog, per enviroment, per breeding. The poms my grandparents had were all really friendly with anyone they knew and recognized but were really poor around new animals and people. In my opinion they're too noisy and they get way too wound up when they're "happy to see you" and such...

 

[~Tucker&Me~]

I think it would help if we took a step back and looked at the situation.

Generally, who owns poms? For example, I know Belgian Shepherds owners generally know what they are doing. It is a rarer, largish breed of dog with a more aloof temperment. They are NOT for beginners and require someone who's done research and know what they are doing. Now lets look at Border Collies. Generally, very dog savvy people, as this breed is active and pretty d*mn smart. Lots of sport and herding folk own this breed.

Now lets look back at the pom. Unlike the previous breeds, this breed is COMMON in BYBs and puppymills. I often see them at petstores etc. Generally, I see older people or young ditzy people owning these dogs. Often for the older couple, I see the dog being treated as a 'child', probably because the elder woman or man has lost their children to their jobs, or they are too busy with their new families. What happens when the dog is raised like a baby? Well, I'm sure you know... At the other end of the spectrum, you get the younger folk who want an 'accesory'. All Foo Foo has to do is look cute, maybe yap a little, and we're good to go.

Now, I KNOW there are reputable pom breeder, just like I KNOW there are a lot of good, responsible pom owners with well behaved, nice little dogs. Unfortunately, they aren't common around here.

This is all my own opinion, so hopefully no one takes offence .

~Tucker

 

[Cassiepeia]

I agree that the reason these small dogs end up with nasty reputations is because of the people who are attracted to owning them. Small dogs are allowed to get away with murder and people think it's cute.

If you want to see what well trained and socialised poms are like, go to a show and meet people dedicated to the breed there.

Cass.

 

[FoxyWench]

first lets think of where pomeranians came from...
they are a spitz breed, tend to be high drive, can be noisy, smart but stubborn and origionally bred from much larger WORKING dogs.

so weve taken a strong willed high drive northen breed and put him in a tiny package.

then we look at the look of this dog...
quite simply its CUTE! it looks like a tiny little teddy bear or a realy fuzzy fox.

now we take a look at the people:
who usually owns a northern breed? someone active, most people that own them understand that dirve, many work or at least are provided with activities to kepe them busy.
who usually owns a pom? young girls, drawn into their cutness, older people who dont have the mobility to take care of a larger dog, busy apartment dwelling people looking for a dog that doesnt take up too much space. and middleaged women whos kids have left home and shes got empty nest. (not this goes for all small breeds and is the trend, not all people who own poms fall into these categories)
these people usually dont offer much in the ways of excersize, they usually dont feel a need to train the dog (because when its so small you just pick it up) and they dont understand what kind of dog this is.

the poor dog is then spoilt, never trained and tends to become nurotic.

a well bred pomeranian in the right home is a WONDERFULL active fun loving little dog with a big attitude, they are great watchdogs. and ive met many a pom who loves agility and flyball.

in the wrong home there spoilt confused and neurotic.

if your looking into a pom they are WONDERFULL dogs, be perpared for a dog that will get bored easily, but dont let those nasty ones put you off. go in with knowledge and youll be fine.
Unfortunatly toy breeds tend to be taken on by people looking for a baby, and they dont understand that by treating there dogs like humans there just confusing them...

 

[pitbullpony]

So where to go to buy Pom?

Not that I want one; I've got my big girl to keep me company; but is there a reputable breeder that someone would recommend.

People breeding for the pocket-pup craze are obviously out.
Would a show breeder be appropriate; many breed for huge coat and attitude; possibly not what a pet home wants.

Any suggestions.

 

[Chrissy&B]

I think foxy said it nicely. They are adorable, active dogs, but like most breeds not for everyone!! Personally, if I decided to buy a Pom, I'd definitely do Agility with him. Not only because I LOVE agility, but because I know that these dogs need something to do..... they might look like a toy, but they're far from it.

 

[Cassiepeia]

Not that I want one; I've got my big girl to keep me company; but is there a reputable breeder that someone would recommend.

People breeding for the pocket-pup craze are obviously out.
Would a show breeder be appropriate; many breed for huge coat and attitude; possibly not what a pet home wants.

Any suggestions.

You might like to look for breeders who not only show but do sports with the dogs too. I think most 'show people' are fairly reputable but there are always exceptions. I always love to see people who breed & show toy breeds but also do obedience or agility or something with them too. That gives me the impression that looks are not all that's important to them.

Cass.

 

[FoxyWench]

i agree, i dont personally know any pom breeders, but i suggest looking for a breeder that does agility as well as confirmation with their pom, someoen that understands the work drive of this little tiny spitz

 

[savethebulliedbreeds]

I own and did breed poms for years. I can tell you from experience that they are wonderful, well tempermented dogs....as long as they are trained properly. These dogs are definately not for everyone.

Some things you should think about if you want this breed.

Do you care about shedding? If so, then this breed is not for you. They shed quite a bit, even with daily brushing and "blow" their coats twice a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall.

Do you have time for grooming? If not then, again, this breed is not for you. Their coat takes a lot of grooming to make it look nice, and keep it healthy.

Do you want a dog that is independant? If you do, don't get a pomeranian. Many poms feel the need to be with their owners 24 hours a day and do not like being by themselves. My poms follow me around the house, wherever I go, even into the bathroom.

Do you have kids? If you have really young children, you may want to wait to get a pom until they are older. Poms are fairly dainty dogs and can get hurt quite easily.

Anyways, these are the 3 main things I was asked about when people phoned me about the breed so this may help you a bit.

 

[showpug]

The poms I know are very proud and brave little dogs. However, the poms I know are show dogs which means they have had a TON of socialization in strange environments with strange people etc. They all walk on a lead and are not babied 24/7 by their owners. They are treated like dogs. The ones I know are great little dogs...

 

[Honey_Bear]

I want to know straight from the horse's mouth how pomeranians are with people.. with other animals.. personality.. everything. I read about them but I want to hear from experienced owners here n chaz hound how they are. All the poms ive seen are either too aggressive or too scared. Any info will be greatly appreciated.

Well, my horse (Fannie) doesn't exactly speak english . . . . . but I'll try to translate! LOL! NEIGH, NICKER, NEEEEH! Neigh, NEIGH! Neehee! Neigh!

I think she says:
Pomeranians
What's good about 'em
What's bad about 'em:

There are energetic Pomeranians, and placid Pomeranians.
Hard-headed Pomeranians, and sweet-natured Pomeranians.
Serious Pomeranians, and good-natured goofballs.
Introverted Pomeranians, and Pomeranians who love everyone.

If you acquire a Pomeranian puppy, you can't know for sure what he or she will grow up to be like. Because a good number of purebred puppies do NOT grow up to conform to the "norm."


Now let's look at some common characteristics for this breed...


If you want a dog who...



Is very small and "spitz-like", with pricked ears, foxy face, a thick coat, and curled tail
Is vivacious and spunky, bright and attentive
Is delightfully alive and aware of everything going on around him and keenly alert to approaching strangers
Is usually fine with other pets
A Pomeranian may be right for you.



If you don't want to deal with...



An extremely careful search to avoid all the nasty, neurotic Pomeranians
The fragility of toy breeds (see below)
Suspicious yappiness toward strangers when not socialized enough
Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
Barking
Regular brushing and combing
Heavy shedding
Housebreaking difficulties
A Pomeranian may not be right for you.



If I were considering a Pomeranian...


My major concerns would be:


Unstable temperaments. Pomeranians are a dime a dozen, and most of them are bred and offered for sale by people who don't have the slightest idea of how to breed good-tempered dogs. Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants see LOTS of Pomeranians with neurotic behaviors, including biting, sharpness, extreme fearfulness, moodiness, and general nastiness.

Fragility. Too many people acquire a toy breed puppy without understanding how incredibly fragile a toy breed is. You can seriously injure or kill a Pomeranian puppy by stepping on him or by sitting on him when he's curled under a blanket or pillow, where he frequently likes to sleep. And Pomeranians can seriously injure or kill THEMSELVES by leaping from your arms or off the back of your sofa. A larger dog can grab a Pomeranian and break his neck with one quick shake. Owning a toy breed means constant supervision and surveillance of what's going on around your tiny dog. Pomeranians must always be kept indoors, in a safely fenced yard, or on-leash -- they are just too easy to injure when not under your complete control.

If you have small children, I do not recommend a Pomeranian. There are just too many Poms who won't tolerate any nonsense. And there are too many Poms who feel overwhelmed by the loud voices and quick movements that children can't help making -- and stress and shyness (even defensive biting) may be the result.


Suspiciousness. Standoffish by nature, Pomeranians need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become suspiciousness, which are difficult to live with and could even lead to defensive biting.

Mind of their own. Pomeranians are not a submissive or sissyish breed. They are very bright, but they have an independent mind of their own and can be manipulative. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

To teach your Pomeranian to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. My Pomeranian Training Page discusses the program you need.


Barking. Pomeranians are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. If you work all day and have close neighbors, Pomeranians are not a good choice for you. For the same reason, Pomeranians should NEVER be left outside in your yard, unsupervised. To make matters worse, some Poms have high-pitched barks that can set your teeth on edge.

Grooming. To keep their thick coat free of mats, Pomeranians require regular brushing and combing, and occasional trimming of straggly hairs.

Heavy shedding. Pomeranians are one of the heaviest shedding of the toy breeds. You'll find hair and fur all over your clothing, upholstery, carpeting, under your furniture, on your countertops -- even in your food. Frequent vacuuming will become a way of life. Make sure you're REALLY up for this.

Housebreaking. Toy breeds are almost always difficult to housebreak. It is so easy for them to sneak behind a chair or under a small table, and it takes only a few seconds for the deed to be done. The results can be hard to see. When you don't see it, you don't correct it -- and so the bad habit becomes established. If you hope to housebreak a toy breed, consistent crate training is mandatory. Pomeranians should not be loosed in the house for many months, until their small internal organs become strong enough for reliable control.

 

[Miakoda]

The only experience I have with Poms is from dealing with them at the clinic. That said, what I'm about to say can be either from their innate nature or because their owners allow them to act that way & think it's cute.

There is not a Pom that comes into the clinic that I look forward to dealing with. I have not dealt with 1 Pom that hasn't tried to bite the crap out of me for doing nothing more than holding it while the vet does an examination. They growl, snap, struggle, etc. during exam time, vaccination time, blood drawing time, & especially during nail trimming time. One of our techs was bitten severely in the neck when the owner grabbed his arm b/c he thought the tech was hurting him (which he absolutely was not) & in doing so, the tech lost his grip thus allowing the Pom to jump up & sink his teeth into the tech's neck. That tech had 10 stitches from that little dog.

And for the one friend of mine who used to own a Pom, that thing was nasty. He growled & snapped at strangers & children alike.

But again, I am positive that many of these cases come about b/c the owners don't treat their dog like a dog & allow them to get away with anything & everything....including bad behavior at the vet's. But there are also some that just have nasty little temperaments.

 

[Tinjz]

I was watching an obedient contest a couple weeks ago.. A Pom was actually competing in class 3.. I was surprised over how well trained he was.. It was nice to see a serious dog owner with a pom.. Not just old ladies and Paris Hilton girls!

 

[Delisay]

Poms were on my list of possibilities for a while, but then I went to a show to check out breeders...

There were two main Pom breeders. One had her dogs in a big pen, and any approach by a stranger would set them off in a chorus of barking. Certainly not approachable dogs.

The other breeder had hers in crates, and they were trying to get their snouts through the bars to get at other passing dogs - really visciously snapping and snarling. Absolutely beautiful looking dogs - lovely - but OMG...

At another event I met one Pom whose worst offence was lick-mania...very friendly, but the tongue!! You could wash windows with that dog - wash and wipe.

So...don't know. The risk of one turning out snarly/snappy is a worry.

D.

 

[tessa_s212]

If I were to ever get a Pom, it would certainly either be from rescue or a SMALL breeder that I KNEW their dogs were stable. I can't stand yippy, small aggressive dogs.. But, I have had a good experience with a Pom, and if that is the standard temperment for Poms, sweet as heck, then I certainly wouldn't mind owning one!

 

[Zoom]

I've met two nice Poms. One is a client dog that comes in occasionally, but he's a dear! The other belongs to an employee and has been socialized extensively and raised properly. He's hugely out of standard, looks more like a mini Eskie than a Pom, but his temperment is excellent.

All others I've met have been overly-yappy, aggressive and/or fearful.

 

[neapolitanpitbull]

Poms.....
As long as they are raised right and have lots of socializing when they are young, they are GREAT dogs. I have known a few Poms who are VERY friendly but the owners had to take the dog literaly everywhere with them to get them that way, they had to ask people to pet the dog and take the dog to their friends houses, get the dog used to other dogs, etc. As long as there is TONS of socializing involved, the dog will be great. On the other hand, I have met some Poms that are scared, barky, mean, like to bite, etc., because they didn't have the socializing they need. They shed tons even if you do brush them daily. They need lots of grooming of their coat with a few brushes every day - and twice a day for the best. Poms are fragile and can get mean if they are hurt at a young age, so young kids are not a good idea. I knew a 2 Poms, Tobee & Shirley that used to live across my street. Well those 2 dogs went in the car with their owner everywhere. They could not stand to be left alone. And when they were, when you were walking your dog, you would definetly know. Those dogs would howl, yap, bark and whine in the window until their owner got home. Poms are great dogs and love their owners a lot. But they can be horrid dogs if they dont have the right amount of entertainment, socializing, etc. Good luck.

 

[Missasmee]

LOL! seriously, I saw this thread and had to register. I have had a lot of exposure with this breed (more than I will mention) and I'm not an expert but I thought I could add a little more input. At first ( when I was a lot younger) I decided I hated this breed because my friends mother had 2 enormous cream poms that barked all the time. The barking was insane and I figured they would bark themselves to death. Also, they nipped at you sometimes, and often had terrible hair mats (but they were left outside a lot and rarely groomed at all).
When I was in college I met a now EX-bf who had acquired an AKC male pom named Bosey. Bosey was the result of someone retarded buying the wrong breed for the wrong person at the wrong time resulting in a homeless dog needing a place to stay. SO he was tossed my eX-bf's way. I despised that bf but LOVED that dog. He never nipped, was social, never pottied in the house, wasn't much of a barker (until he was kept with a female pom named Abbey), he was playful and good with children so long as the children weren't acting dumb (and trying to twirl him around in circles by his legs in which case he ran in fear under the couch). Moving on, Abbey, the female pom was the result of MO's or Moron Owners. She was terrorised by a cruel and amazingly twisted man so I'm not going to use her as an example. Last, but not least, there is my dog. Her name is Pwincess. I originally named her Keela on paper but due to some goofy joke she got stuck with Pwincess. She is an absolutey lovely dog. The things I like about her are she has never in her entire life snapped at anything, she is moderately intelligent, barks a couple of times when startled, doesn't have a seperation anxiety problem, her coat has never matted, she isn't underfoot but isn't so introverted as to hide under a bed all day......eh, the list of good things could go on for a long time. Only negative thing was the housebreaking. But I fear this was partly due to the fact that I was working at the time and she was babysat by my Ex and sometimes his mom. The two of them were a bit more lax and apparently didn't understand using consistency with dogs. They were the type to complain when the dog made a mess but then not do anything to correct it. It has taken me forever to get her to completely understand the bathroom rules. If it had been done correctly the first time it wouldn't have been so difficult. It should also be noted she was raised with her littermates and has become somewhat well socialized due to circumstance.
That whole thing where the owner HAD to take the dog everywhere would annoy me to no end. After owning an akita I can't stand dogs that try to lead me when it should be me leading them. Get the dog a buddy or something.

As an end note, I just purchased an AKC male that has taken me an entire year and 2 months to track down. I'm particularly fond of this breed and hope to own more of them.