How to Identify a Pomeranian

PDF download Download Article
Your guide to easily spotting a purebred Pomerianian
PDF download Download Article

Pomeranians are one of the smallest dog breeds and a member of the toy group. [1] They are spitz-type dogs descended from Icelandic sled dogs. [2] Pomeranians can be confused with other breeds, but by identifying their key traits, you can more easily distinguish them. This wikiHow will help you know whether or not a dog is a Pomeranian.

Things You Should Know

  • Pomeranians are 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) tall, with dark eyes, small ears, and a fox-like face.
  • Though color and cuts vary, Pomeranians frequently have dense, cream-colored double coats.
  • Pomeranians are known to be bright, energetic, curious, sweet, and social little dogs.
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Body Structure

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-1.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians are very tiny dogs. They are only 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) tall and weigh 3–7 pounds (1.4–3.2 kg). [3]

    Did you know? Not only are Pomeranians the smallest of the spitz breeds (a group of dogs including the Chow Chow, Siberian Husky , Keeshond, Shiba Inu , and other breeds), [4] but they're one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. [5]

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-2.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The eyes of a Pomeranian are dark and bright. They are almond-shaped and medium in size. [6]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-3.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians have small ears. The ears are carried erect and mounted high. [7]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-4.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A Pomeranian's muzzle is short and straight, usually with a scissors bite and a black nose, though the nose may be self-colored in chocolate, beaver, and blue dogs. [8] The muzzle and face are often called "fox-like". [9]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-5.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians have tails that lie flat and straight on the back. [10] The tails are heavily plumed and set high. [11]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The build of a Pomeranian is compact and sturdy. Pomeranians are medium-boned, short-backed, and moderately muscled. [12] They have a brisk, smooth, balanced gait. [13]
    7. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Coat

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-7.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians have double coats. This includes a short, dense undercoat and a long, harsh-haired outer coat. [14] Pomeranians have ruffs around their necks that frame the head and extend over the chest and shoulders, along with feathered forelegs, heavily coated thighs and hind legs, and plumed tails. [15]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-8.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians have a very wide range of coat colors and patterns.
    • Coat colors are broken down into three classifications: red, orange, cream, and sable; black, brown, and blue; and any other color, pattern, or variation. [16]
    • Patterns include brindle, parti, piebald, extreme piebald, Irish, and tan points (which are seen above the eyes, inside the ears, on the muzzle, throat, forechest, legs, feet, and the underside of the tail). [17]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-9.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some people choose to give their Pomeranians specific haircuts rather than keeping the traditional cut. Some of these cuts may include the Teddy Bear cut, Lion cut, Show cut, and Puppy cut. [18]
    • The Teddy Bear cut is seen as somewhat short fur with a circular clip around the head. [19]
    • The Lion cut appears as shaving most of the fur while keeping the fur around the head, chest, and legs long. [20]
    • The Show cut is cutting to meet dog show standards, such as trimming the fur so it appears long and fluffy. [21]
    • The Puppy cut is seen as trimming the cost to a short, consistent length. [22]
    4. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Temperament

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-10.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians are very friendly, affectionate, and loyal. They enjoy spending every second with their families. [23]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-11.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Despite their small size, Pomeranians are very bold. They are confident and may be prone to expecting that they're in charge. [24]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-12.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pomeranians are inquisitive about the world around them. You may see a Pomeranian walking around while sniffing the ground or exploring the area. [25]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-13.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Overall, Pomeranians are sociable dogs. They are usually quick to get along with other animals. [26]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-14.jpg\/aid12065307-v4-728px-Identify-a-Pomeranian-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The Pomeranian is an alert and intelligent breed. Anticipate barking from a Pomeranian, and see if their alertness enables them to be a good watchdog. [27]
    6. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I figure out if a Pomeranian is a boy or girl?
    Linnie
    Top Answerer
    There are few differences between male and female Pomeranians. Unlike many other breeds, both male and female Pomeranians are roughly the same size with the same features. You would need to determine the dog's sex by its anatomy and sex-specific behaviors. Check out How to Tell if a Dog Is a Girl or Boy for more information.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 8
  • Question
    Why do Pomeranians lick you all the time?
    Linnie
    Top Answerer
    Licking is common among all dogs, though the cause can vary. This could be solely instinctual or to demonstrate affection, for example. However, if a dog licks excessively, it could potentially be due to a health issue or anxiety, in which case you should consult a veterinarian.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 7
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • If you're wondering whether your dog is a Pomeranian, consider using a DNA test, as this will confirm your dog's breed.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Identify a Siberian Husky
      How to
      Identify a Shiba Inu
      How to
      Identify a Shih Tzu
      How to
      Identify a Great Pyrenees
      How to
      Tell If a Puppy Is a Purebred Labrador
      How to
      Identify a Yorkshire Terrier
      How to
      Identify a Belgian Malinois
      How to
      Identify a Pitbull
      How to
      Identify a Golden Retriever
      How to
      Identify a French Bulldog
      How to
      Identify a German Shepherd
      How to
      Identify a Lhasa Apso
      Advertisement

      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about dog care and training, check out our in-depth interview with Rendy Schuchat .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pomeranian/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pomeranian/
      3. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pomeranian/
      4. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/spitz-dog-breeds/
      5. ↑ https://www.akc.org/press-releases/smallest-2014-sept/
      6. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      7. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      8. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      9. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      1. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      2. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      3. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      4. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      5. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      6. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      7. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      8. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Pomeranian.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.rover.com/blog/the-top-pomeranian-haircut-styles/
      10. ↑ https://www.rover.com/blog/the-top-pomeranian-haircut-styles/
      11. ↑ https://www.rover.com/blog/the-top-pomeranian-haircut-styles/
      12. ↑ https://www.rover.com/blog/the-top-pomeranian-haircut-styles/
      13. ↑ https://www.rover.com/blog/the-top-pomeranian-haircut-styles/
      14. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pomeranian-temperament/
      15. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pomeranian-temperament/
      16. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pomeranian-temperament/
      17. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pomeranian-temperament/
      18. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/pomeranian-temperament/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 46,329 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Katie Aponte

        Apr 15, 2022

        "I really want a Pomeranian and this article helped me to be able to find one."
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement