Pomeranians make fantastic companions

Any Pomeranian lover will repeat some story about their Pomeranian having the proverbial memory of an elephant. Poms remember both the good and the bad, and mistreatment will be lodged in the Pom's brain forever. One commonly heard story is about a Pom who was mistreated as a puppy by a neighbor who subsequently moved away. Ten years later, the neighbor returned. The Pom was now older and grayer, but showed obvious memory of the individual by leaving the room, going to a hiding place, and having to be coaxed out after the person left.

The smartest dogs also bring with them the biggest responsibility. Poms need consistent treatment and plenty of training so that both dog and owner are communicating and in-sync.

As tiny as they are, if you see a Pomeranian strutting in a dog show, you will know its magnetic physical presence. It is hard to take your eyes off a performing Pom. The show-dogs owners tell stories of the enjoyment their dog obviously gets out of the shows, rising to the occasion and working hard in the public eye.

Poms are not often hostile to other dogs, but they do bristle up their coats, making them appear much bigger. They'll stand their ground, too, but they rarely seek conflict unless there is no other option. Part of the spitz family of breeds, this peacemaking behavior is common. The spitz breeds were working dogs, sled dogs, and fighting for the fun of it was never tolerated within the breeds. It wasted time and dogs. This ancestral pattern may be where the Pom's behavior began.

Poms let human strangers know they are there, in the same way they posture with other dogs. They keep a safe distance and scrutinize the stranger to determine intent. Some breeds will accept almost any person, licking and looking for pets from their new friend. Poms are more cautious. You can see it in their body language. They tend to dance away from attempts to pick up or even pet the dog until they know you. Don't let this fool you. Once you are a friend, Poms love attention and petting.

Poms have sharp eyes, excellent hearing, and incredible sense of smell. They are keen and bright, and are almost never seen to be inactive or sluggish. They are careful eaters, relishing quality food and rejecting anything stale or less than tasty.

Grooming is also easier with Poms than with many dogs, as they seem to luxuriate in human touch once they know you. Even dog groomers report that once the Poms are familiar with them, they seem to become very excited at the prospect of going to the groomer.

Choose your Pom with confidence. You are in for many years of wonderful companionship.