Small in size but big in personality, Pomeranians are confident, affectionate, and full of energy. If you’re raising one of these fluffy companions, this guide answers 50 of the most common questions Pomeranian owners ask – with natural wellbeing tips and helpful product links from Poppy’s Picnic’s award-winning raw food range.

General Care and Wellbeing

1. How often should I groom my Pomeranian?

Daily brushing is ideal to prevent matting in their thick double coat. Use a slicker brush and a comb to reach down to the undercoat. Coat health is also influenced by nutrition – Poppy’s Picnic Complete Raw Meals are rich in natural oils that help promote a soft, shiny coat.

2. Do Pomeranians shed a lot?

Yes, particularly during seasonal changes. They have a thick undercoat that sheds heavily. Regular grooming and a diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw food, which supports skin and coat health, can help manage excessive shedding.

3. How much exercise does a Pomeranian need each day?

Pomeranians are lively but don’t need long walks. Two 20-minute walks and some indoor play are usually enough. Their small size means they burn energy quickly. A protein-rich, portion-controlled diet like Poppy’s Picnic Chicken Meatballs supports their energy needs without overfeeding.

4. Are Pomeranians prone to health problems?

They can be prone to dental disease, luxating patella, tracheal collapse, and skin issues. 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Pomeranian?

Pomeranians live 12 to 16 years with proper care. A natural, minimally processed diet like Poppy’s Picnic supports long-term health and can help keep them vibrant into their senior years.

6. How often should I bathe my Pomeranian?

Every 4–6 weeks is ideal unless they get particularly dirty. Use a dog-specific shampoo and ensure they’re fully dry afterwards. Dogs on Poppy’s Picnic’s raw food often have fewer odours and skin irritations, so you may need to bathe them less frequently.

7. What is the best way to clean a Pomeranian’s ears?

Check weekly and clean with a vet-recommended solution and a cotton pad. Pomeranians are prone to wax build-up. Feeding a clean, additive-free diet like Poppy’s Picnic may help reduce the yeast and inflammation that can lead to ear issues.

8. How do I know if my Pomeranian is overweight?

You should be able to feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat and see a clear waist from above. Due to their size, even small weight gains can be significant. Poppy’s Picnic’s feeding guide helps with accurate portioning.

Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Pomeranians?

They love soft plush toys, small squeaky balls, and puzzle feeders. Fill enrichment toys with tiny pieces of Poppy’s Picnic ambient meatballs to make them even more engaging.

10. How can I keep my Pomeranian’s coat shiny and healthy?

Daily brushing, regular grooming, and a high-quality diet are essential. Poppy’s Picnic Complete Raw Meals include healthy fats and unprocessed ingredients that promote coat condition from the inside out.

 

Behaviour and Temperament

11. Are Pomeranians good with children?

They can be, but due to their small size and sometimes feisty nature, they’re best suited to homes with older children who understand gentle handling. Mealtime routines using Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can help reinforce calm interactions.

12. Do Pomeranians get along with other dogs and pets?

They often get along well, though they may try to boss larger dogs around. Early socialisation is key. Use treats to reward calm, friendly behaviour during introductions.

13. Are Pomeranians aggressive?

They’re not aggressive by nature but can be bold and vocal. Proper socialisation, positive reinforcement, and a calm routine help. Diet can also impact behaviour

14. Why does my Pomeranian chew everything?

Chewing can be due to teething, boredom, or stress. Offer chew toys Kongs to redirect the behaviour in a healthy way.

15. Why is my Pomeranian so clingy?

Pomeranians are companion dogs and thrive on human contact. Help build confidence by encouraging independence and offering enrichment like lick mats with Poppy’s Picnic meals to promote solo relaxation.

16. Can Pomeranians be left alone during the day?

They can manage short periods alone with proper training, but don’t cope well with long hours of isolation. Build up gradually and offer a stuffed toy or treat puzzle filled with Poppy’s Picnic ambient meatballs to ease stress.

17. Do Pomeranians bark a lot?

They’re known to be vocal. Barking often stems from boredom or alertness. Mental stimulation and calm routines – like food-based enrichment with Poppy’s Picnic – help reduce excessive barking.

18. Why is my Pomeranian digging up the garden?

They may dig from boredom or instinct. Redirect with a digging box or puzzle game and hide small treats like Poppy’s Picnic meatball pieces to make it rewarding.

19. Are Pomeranians hyper?

They have bursts of energy but settle well with routine. Walks, interactive play, and mental challenges like treat puzzles or a lick mat with Poppy’s Picnic food help balance their energy levels.

20. How can I calm down my Pomeranian?

Structure, consistent routines and calming activities work best. Feeding on a slow feeder or using a frozen Kong with Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can encourage focus and relaxation.

Training and Development

21. Are Pomeranians easy to train?

Yes, they’re smart and eager to learn, but can be a little stubborn. Use short, fun sessions and reward generously with Poppy’s Picnic meatball pieces.

22. What’s the best age to start training a Pomeranian?

Training can begin from 8 weeks old. Start with socialisation, toilet training and basic commands. Poppy’s Picnic raw and ambient foods are suitable for puppies, so you can start rewards right away.

23. How can I stop my Pomeranian from pulling on the lead?

Use a harness and reward them when they walk nicely beside you. Bring treats on walks to reinforce good behaviour.

24. Why won’t my Pomeranian come when called?

They can be distracted or independent. Train recall in a quiet space and always reward generously with a favourite treat like Poppy’s Picnic.

25. How do I toilet train a Pomeranian puppy?

Take them out frequently and reward success immediately. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic food at consistent times helps regulate their routine and makes house training easier.

26. How can I stop my Pomeranian from jumping up?

Ignore jumping and reward sitting or calm behaviour. Ask for a “sit” when they greet you and offer a small reward 

27. What are the best training commands for a Pomeranian?

Start with sit, stay, come, leave it, and down. Make sessions fun and reinforce with high-value treats

28. Should I crate train my Pomeranian?

Yes – crates provide a safe, calm space. Make it inviting and feed Poppy’s Picnic raw meals in the crate to build a positive association.

29. How do I handle separation anxiety in my Pomeranian?

Build up gradually and use enrichment to distract them. Try freezing Poppy’s Picnic food inside a Kong for calm, independent chewing while you’re out.

30. How much mental stimulation does a Pomeranian need?

A lot – they’re smart and need challenges. Use food puzzles, training games, and hide-and-seek activities to keep them engaged.

 

Health and Breed-Specific Issues

31. Are Pomeranians prone to hip dysplasia?

It’s less common than in larger breeds, but luxating patella (knee dislocation) is more typical. Keeping your Pom at a healthy weight and feeding joint-supportive food like Poppy’s Picnic Complete Meals helps reduce joint strain.

32. What are common allergies in Pomeranians?

Pomeranians often react to grains, artificial additives, or certain proteins. Signs include itching, ear infections, or tummy upset. Switching to a raw, limited-ingredient diet like Poppy’s Picnic can help identify and manage allergies.

33. How often should I take my Pomeranian to the vet?

At least once a year for check-ups and vaccinations, more often for dental checks. 

34. What’s the best age to neuter or spay a Pomeranian?

Typically around 6–12 months, depending on your vet’s advice. Feed a balanced, easily digestible diet like Poppy’s Picnic before and after surgery to support healing and immune health.

35. Do Pomeranians get ear infections easily?

Yes – especially if they have food sensitivities or excess hair in the ear canal. Keep ears clean and feed a natural, non-inflammatory diet like Poppy’s Picnic to reduce flare-ups.

36. What are signs of heart problems in Pomeranians?

Coughing, fatigue, or reduced stamina may be early signs. Regular vet checks are essential. Supporting your dog with natural food like Poppy’s Picnic helps maintain cardiovascular health through better weight and nutrient intake.

37. Are Pomeranians more prone to arthritis as they age?

Yes – particularly if they’ve been overweight. Keep your Pom active and feed a joint-supportive diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw food, which contains naturally occurring omega-3s and proteins to maintain mobility.

38. What vaccinations does my Pomeranian need?

Core vaccines include parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. Boosters are needed yearly. Support their immune system with clean, whole food from Poppy’s Picnic, free from unnecessary fillers and additives.

39. How can I care for my senior Pomeranian?

Offer soft bedding, shorter walks, and joint-friendly food. As their digestion slows, Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can be steamed slightly for easier chewing and digestion.

40. What’s the difference between Pomeranians and other Spitz breeds?

Pomeranians are the smallest of the Spitz group and more indoor-focused. Their grooming needs and lively temperament are similar to larger relatives. A portion-controlled raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic suits their small size without sacrificing nutrition.

 

Lifestyle and Suitability

41. Are Pomeranians good for first-time dog owners?

Yes – they’re affectionate, intelligent, and small enough to manage easily. A consistent routine, gentle handling, and nourishing food like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs help create a happy, balanced life.

42. Can Pomeranians live in flats or apartments?

Absolutely. They adapt well to smaller spaces as long as they get daily walks and stimulation. Puzzle feeders filled with Poppy’s Picnic food are great for indoor enrichment.

43. Do Pomeranians enjoy swimming?

Some do, but most are hesitant in deep water. Always supervise and use shallow areas. Reward confidence with treats keep experiences positive.

44. Are Pomeranians suitable for people with allergies?

They shed and produce dander, but regular grooming will help

45. Can Pomeranians be used as therapy or assistance dogs?

Yes – their small size and affectionate nature make them ideal lap dogs for therapy visits. A steady diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw supports calm, steady behaviour and predictable energy levels.

46. Do Pomeranians travel well?

Yes, they’re portable and often enjoy new environments. Bring water, a soft bed, and a healthy travel snack that doesn’t require refrigeration.

47. What size crate is best for a Pomeranian?

A small crate, around 24 inches, is usually ideal. Make it cosy and calm. Feed meals in the crate using Poppy’s Picnic raw food to build a positive association.

48. How do Pomeranians handle hot weather?

They can overheat quickly due to their thick coat. Walk them early or late and provide cool spaces indoors. Offer frozen bone broth cubes or chilled raw food to help regulate body temperature.

49. Are Pomeranians good hiking companions?

They love adventure but tire easily due to their size. Stick to short, flat trails. Pack water and a few treats for an easy, energy-boosting snack.

50. Can Pomeranians be trained for agility or obedience competitions?

Yes – they’re bright and love to show off. Positive training with small meatball pieces keeps them engaged and enthusiastic.