Origin of the Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is descended from the Spitz, the official name of the breed is the German Spitz, and within the breed there are five sizes or varieties, among which is the dwarf German Spitz (zwergspitz) or Pomeranian which is the smallest of all varieties. The breed owes its name to a region between Germany and Poland called Pomerania. In ancient times the size of the Pomeranian was much larger and they were used as sled dogs and cattle herding dogs. Although it is a German breed, it is said to have been popularized by the British Royal family in the 18th century.
Its appearance and size has been changing since then until now by the selection of breeders, to acquire a smaller and rounder appearance to become a herding dog, a beautiful small dog perfect for company but still retains some of its primitive character that makes it so bold.
Types of Pomeranian or bloodlines
I would like to clarify this subject that creates so much confusion and that often the information we find on the internet is erroneous.
The Pomeranian comes from the German Spitz, being this the smallest variety of this breed. So do not be scared when you read in the pedigree the German Spitz (Zwergspitz) because this is the name of the breed. Many people are confused or distrustful because they think they have acquired a Pomeranian and not a Spitz. But we have to know that the breed is the German Spitz.
That means Zwergspitz which comes from German and means dwarf Spitz, the smallest of all Spitz.
Dwarf German Spitz or POMERANIA, and within the Pomeranian what types are there?
Pomeranian toy, Pomeranian lulu, Pomeranian boo, Pomeranian lulu, Pomeranian teacup... and I could go on these are just some of the names that people use to name the Pomeranian according to its size or appearance.
There is no such thing as a Pomeranian toy or micro toy or teacup... there are smaller or bigger Pomeranians... just like in humans, taller or shorter...
So how do you know if it is a Pomeranian?
According to the FCI standard (Fédération Cynologique Internationale)
It measures between 18cm to 22 cm at the withers.
And the AKC (American Kennel Club) Standard.
I personally see much more sense in it, after having been breeding this wonderful breed for more than 15 years, and knowing it to perfection.
The AKC tells us:
The average size of the Pomeranian is from 3 to 7 pounds, with the ideal weight for the show specimen being 4 to 6 pounds. Any dog over or under the limits is objectionable. However, overall quality is to be favored over the size. (...)
And here is the Spanish translation:
The average size Pomeranian ranges from 3 to 7 pounds (1'5 kg to 3'5 kg), with the ideal weight for show Pomeranians being between 4 and 6 pounds ( 1'8 kg to 2'8kg ). Any dog above or below the limit is questionable. However, more importance will be placed on the overall quality of the dog than on size.
ere the most important thing is the quality and not the size. A Pomeranian with an abundant coat, small ears, a nice and friendly face will always be beautiful even if it weighs 4 kilos and not 1.5 kilos. Let's value quality and love the breed within its standard, without asking for impossible things, for example dogs under 1 kilo.
With this I want to clarify that there are no TYPES OF POMERANIA, it is the same dog that goes from a weight of 1.5 to 3.5 kg approximately.
But why is there so much difference from one to the other... in their appearance?
Now then, let's talk about BLOOD LINES.
Why are some pomeranias more foxy and others more bear-like? Or with chubbier legs and others with taller legs? Or with more or less hair...
This depends on the bloodline. And on the genetics behind your Pomeranian.
This has to do with the evolution of the breed, as breeders have been evolving the breed. And that is why there are pomeranians that have a more primitive appearance as the breed was in ancient times with the appearance of the Spitz, and others more evolved, with a more abundant hair, shorter muzzle, smaller and rounder ear and paws with more hair that makes a more rounded overall appearance.