Dog Information Archives

Disclaimer

Teacup Pomeranian Dog Guide | Uncover the Facts with CaninePals.Com

March 8, 2024July 11, 2023

Get to know everything about the teacup Pomeranian dog – from their personality traits and health concerns to tips on properly caring for them.

The Teacup Pomeranian is a tiny dog that stands out for its adorable fluffy body. They have a bold, curious, and alert nature. Being an interesting little dog, Teacup Pomeranians have recently gained huge popularity. Pomeranians are already adorable but are almost impossible to resist when they become pocket-sized.

The term “teacup” explains an unofficial size guide, falling just under the toy size to which regular Pomeranians belong. Teacup dogs are bred by breeders looking for a marketing edge and are not recognized as a dog breed by the American Kennel Club.

You might be wondering what this remarkable adorable dog has to offer. Well, this post will guide you through everything you need to know about Teacup Pomeranian.

Details of Teacup Pomeranian Size Explained

Most breeders won’t agree that Teacup Pomeranians are tiny versions of their breed’s standard-sized counterparts. A Teacup Pomeranian is not a recognized breed, and they have no official breed standards. These tiny dogs weigh seven pounds or less when fully grown.

Remember that the American Kennel Club and many other reputable breed organizations do not recognize teacups as an actual size standard. The correct show standard-sized Pomeranian should weigh between 3 and 7 pounds and is about 8 inches tall from the shoulders to the ground.

What is the Teacup Pomeranian Coat and Appearance?

Teacup Pomeranians look pretty much exactly how you would expect for them to look – too cute and adorable! The desired look is a thick double coat with a distinctive, fanned tail. They are known for their dark, alert eyes and delicate features.

Teacup Pomeranians will have the standard Pomeranian coat, which is a double coat with a fluffy undercoat and shiny outer coat.

They can come in many different, beautiful colors with nearly endless possibilities! Teacup Pomeranians come in a few popular coat colors including black, white, chocolate, blue, orange, red, and brindle.

Why Breeding Teacup Pomeranians is Considered Controversial

Not everyone, including many vets, agrees that smaller Pomeranians are better. This is because when it comes to Poms and their health, size does matter. That’s why breeding Teacup Pomeranians has been an ongoing controversial trend amongst dog lovers, experts, vets, and breeders around the globe.

Teacup Pomeranians are typically bred on purpose for their adorable small size. Most of the time, Pom breeders will breed runts of litters to create extra small, pocket-sized Pomeranians who are under the normal size for their already small breed standard.

Unfortunately, runts of litter are usually small, weak, and underweight due to health problems or birth defects. Continuing to breed these teacup Pomeranians and pass on these unhealthy genes is considered unethical.

Teacup Pomeranians are notorious for serious health problems. They’re more prone to injury due to rough handling, accidental falls, or even minor spats with other pets.

Teacup Pomeranian Temperament

Does the Teacup Pom make a good family dog?

Teacup Pomeranians, commonly known as Teacup Poms, are small dogs with big personalities. They seem unaware of their small size and are very eager for adventures. Teacup Pomeranians can make good family pets but may not tolerate young kids.

Like the regular Pomeranian, the Teacup Pom can be a very good family dog for families with older and gentle kids. Teacup Pomeranians generally share the following personalities:

Affectionate

Teacup Pomeranians are loving and cuddly little dogs. They need your attention and affection but offer unconditional love to their owners. Teacup Pomeranians enjoy cuddling up next to their owner.

Great watchdogs

The Teacup Pomeranians are alert and aware of their surroundings. Like all Pomeranians, they are highly protective of their family and make great watchdogs. Teacup Poms really have no idea how small they are!

Intelligent

Teacup Pomeranians are considered intelligent dogs. These little guys have a good memory and need mental stimulation to avoid mischievous and destructive activities.

Barkers

Teacup Pomeranians are vocal dogs with high barking potential. They will bark every time someone approaches. You can train them to stop excessive barking and avoid unpleasant situations.

Playful

Teacup Pomeranians are playful pups and love to spend time with their owners. Their playful antics often help them get all the adoration they crave.

Unfriendly with kids

Teacup Pomeranians are often suspicious of small kids. They can be snappy toward other kids if not treated respectfully or gently. If you are looking for a breed that gets along with children, you might want to consider other breeds instead of the Teacup Pomeranian.

Some of the Teacup Pomeranians are mischievous, outgoing, and into everything. Many behavioral issues stem from a dog’s early upbringing. If socialized properly in puppyhood, Teacup Pomeranians make a wonderful family dog.

What Is A Teacup Pomeranian’s Average Lifespan?

The Teacup Pomeranian is prone to several health issues which could affect his lifespan. They are more at risk of passing away earlier due to illness or injury. According to most experts, Teacup Pomeranians have an average lifespan of only 7 – 9 years.

Teacup Pomeranian Health Issues

These sweet little dogs may be adorable but prone to many health issues. They can suffer throughout their lives due to questionable breeding standards and birth defects.

Cryptorchidism: Male Teacup Pomeranians often suffer from Cryptorchidism. It’s a condition when one or both of the pup’s testicles fail to descend into the scrotum.
Hypoglycemia: Teacup Pomeranians can suffer from a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, called hypoglycemia. It’s still important to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia in otherwise healthy Teacup Pom. The affected baby Teacup Pomeranian looks disoriented, is always sleepy, or becomes unresponsive and unconscious.
Luxating Patellas: Luxating Patellas is a degenerative problem in Teacup Pomeranians due to the looseness of the kneecap. This happens when the muscles and the tendons that hold the kneecap of Teacup Pom in place become very weak. When the kneecap slips, it causes acute pain, lameness in the leg, or an abnormal gait in the Teacup Pomeranian.
Dental Problems: A Teacup Pomeranian has a smaller mouth crowded with teeth. They are prone to a lot of tooth problems. Teacup Pomeranians also tend to do less chewing, and their roots are shorter.
Heart disease: Heart disease is the abnormality of the heart of Teacup Pomeranian. It includes congenital abnormalities and physical structure, function, or electrical activity disorders.
Hypothermia: These tiny dogs cannot regulate their body temperature and are prone to suffer from hypothermia. Teacup Pomeranians are sensitive to drops in temperature, especially when left in cold weather.
Prone to Injury: A Teacup Pom’s tiny size can make it prone to injury. They are easy to overlook and can be stepped on and injured easily. Teacup Pomeranians have tiny bones that can be fractured easily. If the fall is serious, it could even be fatal.
Tracheal Collapse: Collapsing trachea is a hereditary problem that happens when the trachea of Teacup Pomeranian becomes narrow due to the softening of the cartilage that holds the windpipe. This results in much coughing for the Teacup Pomeranian, further irritating and inflaming the throat.

There are other health issues a Teacup Pomeranian could experience in its lifetime. Some of these include severe or mild deafness, skeletal or cardiac issues, reproductive issues, and more.

How to Take Care of a Teacup Pomeranian

Taking care of your Teacup Pomeranians involves a lot of things, including feeding, grooming, training, and exercises.

Teacup Pomeranian Feeding

Feeding teacup dogs should be done 3-4 times a day. Some dog owners even find free-feeding a Teacup Pomeranian is better. The food requirements of a baby Teacup Pomeranian changes as they grow up. Clean and fresh water should be available to Teacup Pomeranians at all times.

How Much Exercise Does a Teacup Pomeranian Need?

Teacup Pomeranians may be small, but they still need exercise. They may not need as much exercise as their larger dog counterparts, but they’re still active and energetic dogs. Exercising your Teacup Pom will prevent health issues and reduce behavioral problems through fun activities.

They need regular exercise and physical activities to stay healthy and happy. Because they are so small, Teacup Pomeranians can also get adequate exercise through daily play. You can also take them for a daily walk to keep them healthy and happy.

Teacup Pomeranian Training

Teacup Pomeranians are intelligent but sometimes tend to be stubborn and independent, which makes training difficult. Patience, consistency, and reward-based training work best for Teacup Pomeranians. Being a tiny dog, harsh treatment, punishments, and yelling will only have negative consequences.

Teacup Pomeranians can be prone to boredom and separation anxiety if not properly trained and exercised.

Teacup Pomeranian Grooming

Teacup Pomeranians are moderate shedders and have soft and fluffy double coats. Teacup Pomeranians shed the same as the normal-sized Pomeranian dog. You can expect to find a lot of hair around the home. Let’s have a look at grooming Teacup Pomeranians:

Teacup Pomeranians require daily brushing. This will help to remove dead fur and avoid mats and tangles.
They need a few baths a month, only when needed. Frequent bathing strips the coat of oils that keep it healthy.
Teacup Pomeranians’ teeth should be brushed daily. Brushing removes bacteria and tartar buildup. These tiny Teacup Poms are prone to dental problems.
Teacup Poms’ nails should be trimmed every few weeks to avoid splitting and discomfort.
Teacup Pomeranians’ ears should smell good with no unusual amount of wax.
When you groom your Teacup Pomeranian, look inside its mouth and ears for signs of allergies or infection.

Regular grooming of your Teacup Pomeranian will help you detect potential health problems early.

Pomeranian History

Did you know this adorable small breed has a surprising heritage linked to large Icelandic sledding dogs? In the 1800s, they started gaining popularity among royal families, but Queen Victoria sparked the trend for smaller Pomeranians. Her own Pomeranian was even tinier than the average, which weighed around 30 pounds at the time.

The demand for smaller Pomeranians continues to rise. Pomeranians were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888, and by the 1900s, the adorable small Pomeranians we adore today became the breed standard. Most of these tiny dogs weigh less than 7 pounds.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Teacup Pomeranian

Teacup Pomeranian puppies are cute and adorable but have some health issues. Teacup Poms carry all the amazing traits that their standard-sized Pomeranian counterparts carry. It’s all packed into a much tiny package. Let’s take a look at some pros to own Teacup Pomeranian puppies.

Teacup Poms are easy to travel with due to their small size
They are spunky and outgoing and make spirited companions
Teacup Poms need only moderate exercise
They make excellent therapy dogs
They are eager to please and entertaining to watch

Owning Teacup Pomeranians does come with its fair share of potential problems. Let’s take a look at some cons to own Teacup Pom puppies.

Teacup Pomeranians have many serious health issues due to their small size
Pomeranians, in general, can be stubborn and willful
Teacup Poms can be more prone to serious injury due to their small size
Grooming can be high-maintenance if their coats are left to grow long
They have been known to snap and nip if handled too roughly
Teacup Pomeranian puppies have a shorter lifespan than standard-sized Pomeranians

Wrapping Up

Of course, there’s nothing more fun and adorable than toting around a palm-sized Pomeranian. If you are thinking of getting a Teacup Pomeranian dog, prepare to spend a lot of time with your fur buddy. It’s hard not to fall in love with a cute Teacup Pomeranian dog.

More Pomeranian Information about Teacup Poms is available on the Pomeranian Resource Website.

References and Further Reading:

[1] Official Standard of the Pomeranian (AKC). American Kennel Club, 2011.
[2] Official English Kennel Club Pomeranian Breed Standard, 2017.
[3] Kimbering Pomeranians “1891-1991”.
[4] Denise Leo, The Pomeranian Handbook.
[5] E.Parker, The Popular Pomeranian.
[6] L.Ives, Show Pomeranians. [7] L.Ziegler Spirer & H.F. Spirer, This is the Pomeranian.
[8] FEDERATION CYNOLOGIQUE INTERNATIONALE (FCI) German Spitz, including Keeshond and Pomeranian Breed Standards. PDF file.

The Pomeranian Handbook by Denise Leo

How to Buy a Puppy Online Safely: Buying a Puppy Online Tips

March 20, 2024February 2, 2023

The internet is a wonderful, informative place, but it can be full of pitfalls. One such pitfall is the sale of puppies online. If you’re looking for a perfect puppy but can’t find one in your local shelter or breed rescue organization, you might be tempted to buy a new one online.

So when buying a puppy from a website, make sure it’s reputable and safe. This article will take you through some tips on buying a puppy online safely and how to avoid online scammers.

This how-to buy a online puppy guide was created for anyone who wants to ensure they get a healthy pup with all their shots from a reputable breeder.

Best Place to Buy a Puppy Online

How do you find good dog breeders on the internet? Most people who want to buy a puppy spend time searching online.

That’s fine as long as you understand that the bad breeders aren’t using ads on supermarket walls or in cheap places any longer. They know how to find and attract buyers.

Buying a puppy online can be an exciting experience. Many websites sell pets, but it is essential to research and know what you’re getting into before purchasing. Unfortunately, scammers have found the internet is a great place to find easy targets.

Contact your local breed club to find a reputable dog breeder and seek referrals from trustworthy members. If the local breed club has no members with pups available, you can try checking out the dog breeder’s online websites.

Buying Puppies Safely Online

How to tell if a breeder is a good breeder on the internet. It’s essential that, as a new pet owner, you should do proper research. Sure, it may seem confusing because the bad breeders will tell you many of the same things as the good ones.

How to Tell if a Breeder is a Good Breeder Check List:

Responsible dog breeder will have their website to show off their dogs and the feats they have achieved. Bad breeders only use sites to show off and sell puppies.

Best breeder websites are usually full of pictures of their dogs doing everything. Field breeders will show their dogs holding a duck or on point.

Flyball breeders will show their dogs action photos. There could also be some great photos with their family or some candid ones, but it’s evident that the breeder is focused on more than pets.

A bad breeder’s website will only have photos of the dogs sitting down, or the absolute worst photos are of female dogs when they’re pregnant or nursing (hanging low).

If you see a photo of a dog behind a wire, that’s a glaringly obvious red flag, especially if you don’t see any shots without a wire. If the dogs are dirty, that’s also a bad sign.

A responsible breeder often shows casual shots, but the dogs pictured will be clean, washed, blown, and nicely stacked. Their formal shots are winning photos.

The best dog breeders don’t use headings such as “dams,” “sires,” “Mommies,” or “Daddies.” They might use “Females” and “Males,” but the dogs are never shown to be puppy producers. They’re shown on the website and highlighted for their abilities and accomplishments, regardless of whether it’s in the agility ring, the field, or the show ring.

Having puppies is an important aspect but certainly not the main focus of their website.

Honest dog breeders know and use the right language for their specific breed. Bad or careless breeders try to use the right language but invariably get it wrong. The good breeders describe a female dog as “typey and square, the chocolate-colored female has a lovely open side gait and runs true down and back again. The careless breeders will say, “She’s got a nice stride” or “he’s burly and big.”

Reputable dog breeders will use such words as side gait, typey, sweep (in a Cardigan, it means a long dog who’s beautifully put together and well balanced), down and back, rear, front, balanced, conformed, and socialized.

Bad breeders like stride, burly, big, thick, confirmation, acclimated, back, and front legs. They’ll love using silly phrases like domestic breeding, relationship stature, and being trained in socialization. One ad said they breed using the biggest available bloodlines.

Good dog breeders never try to highlight the superficial aspects of their dogs. They don’t complain about the puppy’s color, markings, or attributes that make it worth buying. They never breed undersized or oversized dogs. They try to choose average-sized dogs where possible. This is because under/over-sized dogs face many health problems, so you must consider their size when buying.

Reputable breeders never brag about coat lengths, unusual colors, ear shape, or eye color, or use “rare” when describing their dog. These breeders have enough trouble finding high-quality dogs in typical colors. They’re hardly ever attracted to lower-quality dogs in rare colors. Suppose a good breeder does have a puppy with odd-colored eyes, hair, or coat type. In that case, it’s usually sold to somebody as a pet on limited kennel club registration instead of being sold at a higher price as a rarity.

Good breeders rarely sell a single puppy prior to eight weeks of age. Bad breeders sell puppies as soon as possible. Sadly, bad breeders never try to match the puppies with their owners. Before the puppies have reached an age where they can be graded, they are usually sold. So they’re matched solely based on color because it’s the only element possible to use prior to the age of seven to eight weeks. Never buy from a breeder who uses color as the only determining factor.
“Runt” or “the pick of the litter” are phrases never used by good breeders; only bad breeders ever use these expressions. Phrases such as a “show pick” or “small at birth” are fine, but the other two are derogatory and only bad breeders use them. It’s also a myth that a runt is found in each litter.

Puppies who start small soon grow up to match other puppies in their litter and may end up as the best show dogs of the litter. If a puppy is sick and can’t grow normally, it must never be sold as a pet.

Regarding “pick of the litter,” this is irrelevant if you’re buying a pet. The breeders who use this phrase are simply trying to get you to buy the puppy. If you hear it, ask what they mean by it. Most people will say it refers to color, markings, or something else superficial. They have no bearing on what it takes to make a puppy a good show dog.

The word “throwback” should also ring alarm bells if you hear it. Those bad breeders use this to make excuses for a puppy that doesn’t look like a purebred and is ugly. “Seventy-pound Dane?” “Throwback?” “Both are stupid terms.

Good breeders don’t list their dog’s weight except as an incidental, whereas bad breeders write it under the dog’s name in bold to try to impress with the size of their dog (big or small). Reputable breeders don’t use this ploy as they breed to a standard. You’ll know their dogs fall into a specific range. Bad breeders try to go down or up from that standard level, often producing 1 kg Yorkies or 45 kg Labradors. They focus on a specific weight as being highly desirable. It’s yet another way they’re selling based on superficial attributes, not the basic soundness of the puppy.

Think about buying your puppy with your eyes shut. Do you have plenty of information? Can you get enough accurate information from the website to make an educated buying decision? Or has that breeder only given you basic information such as eye color, color, type of coat, and other information?

Bad breeders sell puppies as long as they’re cute. Once they become ‘ugly,’ they stop selling the dogs. Good breeders don’t ever drop the cost of an older puppy. The price is often increased. The better breeders sell dogs whose maturity gives them extra value. They’ll often sell retired older dogs for a small amount of money to cover desexing costs, but you won’t ever see them dropping the cost of a puppy to get him off their premises.
Responsible breeders possess an innate sense of where in the breed their dogs fit. They can discuss dogs in the pedigrees with clear knowledge, even if they have never seen or owned them. They won’t talk about the dogs having “pretty colors” or as being “nice pets.” You’ll hear them talk about how a grandsire is a top herding dog or another one that has multiple show titles. They’ll understand the main health issues faced by the breed. They’ll discuss the uniqueness of the challenges facing owners, breeders, exhibitors, and trainers of such a breed.

You should be overjoyed to have your dog for his whole life, and your breeder should provide support gained from experience if you have any problems. There should be a feeling of value unrelated to the dog’s “cuteness” factor, and you should come away with your puppy feeling like he’s the best breed available at the time.

If a dog breeder can’t provide these things, don’t buy from him. Don’t buy a dog if you don’t care about the correct breed type or health problems. Rescue one instead.

Avoiding Online Puppy Scams

Online puppy scams are not only common, but they can also have devastating impacts. With so many people accessing the internet for their transactions and information needs, from checking email to shopping online – it’s easy to get lulled into complacency about how safe we are in this electronic age.

But no matter where you go or what device comes up next on your screen: beware! Here is some advice that will help ensure you can avoid online puppy scams:

Carefully Check all Advertisements

Be careful when looking for a new pup. Many websites try to bait you into thinking they can deliver your perfect pet, but don’t be fooled by these scams.

Double-check every ad carefully and ensure everything described sounds correct before clicking away – this includes what breeders say about their dogs’ behavior, how much it will cost, contact information, and the breeder’s location. Scammers often make obvious spelling errors, and any obvious spelling errors are red flags.

Make Sure the Puppies Available Exist

Scammers are experts in grabbing photos of purebred puppies from the web and claiming them as their own. Thus, if a breeder says they can send you pictures of available litter, ask for personalized photographs or videos instead. Ask for a picture of your new puppy next to a newspaper dated the day they were born, so there’s proof that these puppies are real.

Check the Breeder’s Website Carefully

One of the telltale signs that a breeder’s website is fake is if they use http:// in place of https://. This means it isn’t secured and may be trying to scam people!

Another thing you can do, as well, would be to check out their domain age (or how long it’s been active). Most puppy scammers set up an authentic-looking site with information about themselves on the website; however–their establishment date didn’t match when the web address was live for certain domains, so keep your eyes peeled here too.

Is the Puppy is Priced Below Market Value?

Research the average price of the breed you are after and compare it to the breeder’s quote. If it is too good to be true, it might be a strategy to lure innocent pet lovers like yourself.
No reputable breeder would offer their litter at a very low price because they have invested time and effort in producing those pups.

If they claim that they are connected to a specific canine organization and have been selling cheap dogs for quite some time, then give that organization a call to confirm their reputation.

Avoid Breeders Who Want To Close the Sale Immediately

If the breeder tells you a lot of reasons why they should get their pup ASAP before it’s even old enough to be sold, something is suspect. Buying from a reputable, ethical breeder can take some time and might seem frustratingly slow at times! So if this person promises that everything will go smoothly as long as you pay them immediately, cancel your order.

Contact Their Veterinarian

Scammers won’t be able to connect you with a vet, but they will give out fake phone numbers. Check the physical address of any veterinarian and make contact yourself.

If it sounds too good to be true, there’s probably nothing legitimate about these individuals. Proactively verify everything before doing business with anyone online.

Ask for AKC Breeder Registration Details

A scammer would do everything for you to fall into their trap. They’d associate themselves with the most esteemed and respected groups just to sound believable, like a member of the AKC, National Breed Club, or animal shelters.

Once he says that his dogs are from these associations, take advantage by verifying this information yourself – ask people at these locations if what he told is true before making any commitments.

Ask for a Scanned Copy of the Vaccination Certificates

Ask for copies of the pup’s vaccination certificates and worming records to ensure that the puppy has received appropriate veterinary treatment. Proof of worming and vaccination will also prove the puppy exists.

Request Copies of the Parents Kennel Club Paperwork

If you want to ensure that the pup comes from a legitimate breeder, ask for copies of their parents’ kennel club paperwork.

Check the Puppy’s Sales Contract and Guarantee

It is essential to read the sales contract and guarantee before signing. Make sure you understand what each page says and that your needs have been met with the puppy agreement, such as microchipping data or registration requirements for breeding/showing purposes. I recommend thoroughly reviewing every aspect because otherwise, there may be unforeseen consequences later.

Another Red Flag are Emails Containing Poor Grammar

Scammers often prefer communicating via email instead of contacting you via Skype, Zoom, and other similar apps that allow video calling. This is already a red flag because it means they are not interested in talking with potential buyers.

Another thing that should put puppy buyers off immediately if they make mistakes when typing their messages or have errors such as spelling is grammar. A reputable breeder would never do this since communication includes detail-oriented work for those who want information!

Never Pay With Western Union

Make sure to pay for your new puppy with PayPal or a credit card. Check out the bank details before you deposit funds. Never use Western Union as a payment method for a puppy.

How to Buy a Puppy Online Safely Conclusion

You should know the risks and red flags when buying a puppy online. Make sure to research and find out everything possible about the breeder. The more information you have before making this big decision, you will be better off.

Ensuring your new puppy has been well cared for and socialized from birth with humans, and other animals is vital. You can also ask questions about health care information or any medications they may have received before coming into your home.

We hope this post has provided the information you need to know to find a reputable dog breeder, avoid puppy scams and buy a puppy online safely.

References and Further Reading:
[1] Denise Leo “Tips on Choosing the Perfect Canine Companion”.
[2] AKC “American Kennel Club”.

Be the Best Owner Ever: Puppy Facts for New Owners

March 20, 2024August 23, 2021

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, anticipation, and a bit of nervousness, especially for first-time dog owners. As you prepare for your puppy’s arrival, understanding their needs and what to expect in the early days becomes crucial.

This guide on “Puppy Facts for New Owners” is designed to equip pet parents with essential insights into navigating the initial phase of dog ownership.

From figuring out the first things to do when your new pet crosses the threshold to recognizing the most important thing about integrating them as family members, we’ll cover what you need to know to ensure a smooth transition for you and your puppy.

Whether you’re curious about different dog breeds or seeking advice on effectively meeting your puppy’s needs, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of puppies, ensuring you’re well-prepared to introduce your furry friend to their new life as joyfully and stress-freely as possible.

New Puppy Do’s and Don’ts

Puppy facts for new owners include the information that a puppy is just like a new human baby; they must be taught their boundaries. Here are some ideas and the best puppy advice to help you and your new puppy learn the ropes.

Bringing a New Puppy Home

How does picking up a new puppy for the first time feel? It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and joyful all at once. If you are bringing your new puppy home, a lot of preparation needs to be done before the big journey begins. To make sure everything goes smoothly, here are some tips on how to bring home a new puppy:

Picking a weekend to pick up your new puppy will make settling in at home easier and give you more opportunities to play with them.
Get your home puppy-ready: Prepare everything you need when that furry bundle of joy arrives.
A simple way to make your new puppy’s journey home more comfortable is to give them something that smells like their mother and siblings. The breeder will likely have a blanket, but if not, you can ask about borrowing one from the bedding they’ve used with your pup.
Take a small bottle of water from the breeder: If you’re looking for an easy way to prevent any puppy’s digestive woes, take home some of the breeder’s water.
Ask the breeder for a small sample of the food your puppy has been eating at the breeder’s home.
First, decide where in the car the puppy will sit for safety and comfort during the long ride home. If it’s too stressful or dangerous to have the puppy on your lap while driving (or if no one can join you), ensure they have a comfortable place, such as a crate or carrier secured to the passenger seat. Prepare for this emotional roller coaster called “bringing home” by deciding where your dog should go when traveling in the car.
Make sure you stop for frequent breaks when driving back with your new pup, or else it will be very smelly and uncomfortable in the car. Stop at gas stations or rest stops so they can get out of their crate if necessary and hopefully relieve themselves before continuing on their journey back to what we call “home.”
Prepare for accidents: If it’s a long journey back home, pack paper towels and line the puppy’s crate with puppy pads. Also, have an enzyme cleaner ready in case of smelly accidents.

How to Prepare for New Puppy

Here’s a Few Items That I Recommend Purchasing Before Bringing a New Puppy Home:

A crate lined with a vet bed or absorbable, washable blankets is also great for traveling or when your dog needs privacy.
A playpen or exercise pen. Connected to the crate (place a puppy pad at the furthest end of the crate) so that the dog has his own space inside.
Baby gates.
Poop bags
Puppy training pads.
Dog food and water bowls.
Purchase the correct puppy food. A high-quality food.
Washable bedding and a suitable-sized puppy bed.
There are plenty of safe chew, puzzle-type, and soft, squeaky animal-shaped toys.
Pet insurance.

Puppy Facts for New Owners: The First Week

There’s a lot of adjustment to go through in those first seven days. You’ll want to learn all you can about how puppies develop and what they need so that you’re prepared for anything. Puppies will have accidents more often than fully trained dogs; this is normal during their early weeks because they haven’t yet learned bladder control. Be patient but consistent while training your pup.

Your new puppy must adapt to:

Adjusting to their new home.
Being away from their mother and littermates.
Drinking and eating from a different bowl.
There are lots of new smells that smell suspiciously like home but are probably unfamiliar.
New people and maybe even other pets.

Your pup needs plenty of love and care to adjust properly. Puppies are just like human babies. They need a lot of attention and love to stay healthy and happy, so don’t overwhelm them with too many physical or mental tasks at once.

New Puppy Owner Guide: the First Week

Overnight, your puppy’s sleep patterns are likely to change drastically. It’s normal for them not to sleep through the night in their first week at home as they adjust to living with a litter of other animals and people. Additionally, animals have trouble adjusting if they don’t get enough sleep because other external stimuli keep them awake at night, like kids playing outside or traffic noises; however, once again, everything should settle down after some time spent together.
Help your puppy know where to go to the toilet by providing a designated area. For example, you may want an outdoor space or a special pad dedicated to another part of their home away from their crate. To get a puppy toilet trained, create and follow a good schedule that includes bedtime and wake-ups, feeding, playtime with the pup, or some gentle exercise to keep them tired at all times. A potty break should be included in every hour of awake time so they can learn as quickly as possible.
Your adorable puppy will be fun, but you should prepare for the inevitable—chewing and destroying things.
Make sure to take your new puppy for a checkup with the vet. I recommend that all pet owners make an appointment at their nearest veterinarian clinic when they get a new pup to schedule vaccinations and other treatments and familiarize themselves with any preexisting conditions or health issues so that these can be dealt with immediately.

Things to Know About Puppies

New puppies are cute and cuddly, but they also have a lot going on in a short time. They need food for energy and shelter from the elements so that their new immune system can get strong enough to fend off disease. Puppies also must learn how important socialization is early on in life: it’s necessary so that dogs don’t grow up not trusting humans or other animals around them.

What Not to Do With a New Puppy

Here’s a list of what not to do with your new puppy:

Don’t let your new puppy sleep in your bed on the first night unless this will be the pup’s permanent sleeping place.
Ensure the puppy eats the correct amount of food and has access to water 24/7.
Never feed a puppy any food from fast food restaurants.
Ensure the puppy gets enough sleep.
Do not over-exercise a young puppy.
Do not take a puppy to a dog park. The puppy could catch a disease or even be hurt by a larger dog.
Resist the temptation to show the puppy to friends and neighbors. Other than seeing the vet for the first checkup, the puppy should stay home until its course of vaccinations is complete.

Important Puppy Care Tips

Regular Visits to the Vet: Every dog needs an annual physical and a vaccination schedule, just like people. However, dogs age faster than people, so visiting a good veterinarian every six months is better. Regular vet visits may help your vet notice problems that can indicate disease or sickness.
Crate Training & Potty Training: For new puppy owners, crate and potty training are fundamental to raising a well-behaved dog. Crate training offers your puppy a secure and comfortable personal area, helping them learn to cope with anxiety and appreciate alone time. It also plays an important role in preventing indoor accidents, ensuring a smoother housebreaking process. Simultaneously, potty training, often facilitated by puppy training pads, helps establish a clear routine and designated area for bathroom breaks. These pads can be a valuable tool in teaching your puppy where it is acceptable to relieve themselves, especially before they’ve learned to hold it until they’re outside. Starting these training techniques early benefits your puppy’s emotional and physical growth and enhances the connection between you and your puppy.
Dog Training: Training your new puppy with positive reinforcement ensures good behavior and enhances their social skills and mental stimulation. Puppy classes are an excellent start, teaching crucial commands like heel, sit, stay, and come, which could be life-saving. These classes offer a blend of reward-based training—using treats and praise to encourage good behavior—and opportunities for young puppies to interact, developing their social abilities. This foundation of positive reinforcement and socialization sets the stage for a well-mannered dog, welcome in any setting.
Feeding: If you give your dog the best quality food possible, he’ll stay healthy and active for a long time. Stingy and buying the cheapest food may save money in the short term, but that choice could cost much more. Dogs with diabetes and/or obesity can be very costly in terms of vet bills and other care.
Neuter your pet: It would be best if you had your dog neutered. The only exception to this rule is if he’s a first-class member of his specific breed. Neutering your beloved dog when he’s six months old can prevent him from contracting many common dog cancers.
Grooming: Like people, dogs feel wonderful after being groomed. Give his coat a regular brush, even if it’s short. His nails should be properly trimmed regularly so he can walk easily. You could brush his teeth with a specifically designed toothpaste and toothbrush to avoid dental issues.

Puppy Facts for New Owners Conclusion

Raising a new puppy can be daunting but makes for some adorable moments. When you get home from work, your pup first jumps on you to say hello, and there’s no way not to smile.

A lot has been written about what makes dogs happy—walks outdoors, treats for doing tricks, or just because they should have the occasional snack since it’s not good for them all day without any breaks—but many other things make our four-legged friends genuinely content, too! Did you know that playing games like tug-of-war helps build trust between owners and their canines?

Finally, but certainly not least, give your new furry friend much attention and love. If you play it smart by following all the tips in this article, you will enjoy each other for many years.

Please note: while I do discuss health, care, and behavioral issues, you should never use this information as a replacement for advice from qualified veterinarians, diagnoses, or recommended treatment regimes. If you have any worries about your Dog’s health, your first contact should be your regular vet or, if you don’t yet have one, a vet that works locally. Never ignore or avoid treatment and advice from your vet because of a piece of information you have read on any website.

Canine Neuter Surgery FAQ

February 5, 2024July 7, 2021

Canine neuter surgery provides several health benefits for dogs. Before you make the decision to proceed with the dog neuter procedure familiarize yourself the dog neutering procedure.

You will probably want to ask how do vets neuter male dogs and should ask about any canine neuter procedure questions you might have? Most owners usually have questions about dog neuter surgery side effects, the risk of dog neutering complications and male dog desexing aftercare instructions.

Why do People Neuter Dogs?

Dogs who are not neutered i.e. still entire are vulnerable to many health issues. One of the major worries is about the prostate gland. Testosterone can gradually cause the gland to grow bigger during the dog’s lifetime.

As the dog ages, it often becomes uncomfortable and if it grows so big, it may affect your pet’s ability to defecate. Infections can be caused when the prostate’s affected and neutering is the only way to solve this problem.

If your dog is neutered, his prostate may shrink a lot. It also prevents prostatitis and benign hyperplasia (an enlargement), both issues that occur as a dog gets older. There’s also a widely-held belief that if you neuter your dog, it will prevent the onset of prostate cancer. However, this is just a myth.

There are other benefits of having your dog neutered and they include: tumours in the anus and testicles, prevention of some forms of hernias and excessive preputial discharge.

Does Neutering Change Behaviour?

The only behavioural changes that may happen are those that are affected by changes in hormones. Your dog’s friendliness, playful nature and his social interactions with other people won’t be affected. The behaviours that generally change are the negative ones.

90% of neutered dogs lose their interest in roaming. 70% of neutered dogs will lose their desire to mount other dogs. 60% of dogs who are neutered lose their aggressive behaviour towards other male dogs. 50% of those dogs who are neutered stop urine marking.

How Do They Neuter a Male Dog?

Canine neuter surgical procedure involves the Vet cutting an incision a little forward of the scrotum. This incision is where the vet pulls the testicles through. Stalks are cut and tied and so castration is now done.

Do They Remove Testicles When Neutering a Dog?

If his testicles aren’t removed, the above-mentioned benefits won’t be realised. The vet may or may not use stitches for the incision.

Canine Neuter Discharge Instructions

Canine neuter discharge instructions will be provided by your Vet. Male dog neutering aftercare instructions will probably include the instructions for a light tasty evening meal for your dog, a warm soft bed inside, limit activity and the requirement for your dog to wear a cone to prevent damage to the incision.

Male dog desexing aftercare can occasionally include giving painkillers to your dog, which will need to be given for the first few days as per your Vet’s instructions.

Dog neutering complications and dog neuter surgery side effects are rare if the dog’s owner follows the vet’s instructions post surgery correctly.

What to Expect after the Dog is Brought Home from the Vet Hospital?

Male dog neutering recovery in younger male dogs is often very rapid. Owners should expect a male neutered dog’s scrotum to be swollen for the initial few days following the dog neuter procedure. Some owners may think the procedure wasn’t done at all. If it’s an immature dog, his empty scrotum will flatten as he ages.

If he is as mature dog, it will stay as a skin flap. Occasionally the incision is slightly bruised.

Most dogs want to play as soon as they get home but, to ensure the incision stays intact, you need to stop him from playing boisterously.

Best Age to Neuter a Dog?

Provided that both testicles have dropped, age for dog neutering is after the age of eight weeks. If a dog is neutered before he hits puberty (around the six month mark) often grow larger than dogs who have it done after puberty.

Testosterone causes bones to stop growing so if the dog doesn’t have testosterone, the point at which the growth is stopped occurs later in his life.

The same health benefits and behaviour of the prostate can happen regardless of your dog’s age. This means no dog is “too old” to gain the benefits. Most vets say the ideal age for dog neutering is six months old.

Side Effects of Neutering a Male Dog

Will the dog become lethargic or obese?

Your dog’s appetite and level of activity won’t change after the procedure. Nor should he gain weight.

Will he still like females?

His interest will drop but he’ll be aroused if he’s near a female dog in heat. Mounting is sometimes a sign of dominance and a male that has been neutered may mount for many reasons, not all motivated by sex.

Can male dogs still mate after being neutered?

Male dogs who are neutered as adults may retain the ability to mate with a bitch in season. There is no chance of puppies resulting from such a mating.

What if his Testicles Haven’t Dropped?

Tumours are more common in dogs with undescended testicles. They might get twisted on the stalks and cause potentially life-threatening inflammation. Neutering is strongly recommended for dogs if their testicles haven’t dropped.

However, the procedure is more complicated. The testicle might be under the skin along the path it would have taken to descend to his scrotum or it might be in his abdomen. The vet may need to do some exploring to locate it, so he may have two incisions.

The other testicle will be under-developed and sterile. If one has descended, it will be fertile. However, because retaining a testicle is genetic, it’s usually fertile and the dog shouldn’t be bred until after he has been neutered.

Are you Legally Required to Neuter your Dog?

Check with your local government office or council as some places do make it illegal not to neuter a dog because they’re trying to control the population of the pets.

Disclaimer: The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your dog. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on ANY website.

American Staffordshire Terrier Colors

March 20, 2024July 3, 2021

This article is going to discuss the variety of American Staffordshire Terrier colors. No other dog breeds come in as many colors as the AmStaff does.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular and agile family dog. It is an intelligent, playful and loyal pet that has a life expectancy of up to 12 years.

Big muscular head with chiseled cheekbones, wide apart eyes set in perfect circles, broad shoulders, muscular build with no loose skin, and a glossy coat are the characteristics that make American Staffordshire Terriers or the AmStaff a unique dog breed. There is an absolute variety in American Staffordshire Terrier colors.

Stay tuned for more details that are yet to come.

American Staffordshire Terrier Colors

American Staffordshire Terriers come in a wide range of colors. According to the American Kennel Club breed specifications, the AmStaff can come in any color. If we give a quick glance at the American Staffordshire Terrier color chart, we will notice that there is no color or combination, this dog breed is not found in.

Some color schemes are more widely seen than others. Occasionally, a rare coat color known as “grizzle” or agouti may be seen in American Staffie dogs.

The AmStaff comes in solid colors as well as in many combinations. Mostly white dots or patches are observed with a solid color such as black or blue.

In this section, we are going to delve deeply into the details of American Staffordshire Terrier colors.

American Staffordshire Terrier Color Chart

● Black American Staffordshire Terrier

It is an AmStaff that is thoroughly black in color. The shade can be shiny in many dogs. The face, neck, body, and legs all are completely black in color. There are no spots of white or any other color on a black American Staffordshire Terrier. Even the eyes of a black AmStaff are black in color.

● Black and White American Staffordshire Terrier

A black and a white AmStaff is no different from a black one. The difference is that a black Staffordshire Terrier is thoroughly black whereas the black and white AmStaff has a black base with white spots on it. The white spots are found on the face, neck, forelegs, and on the lower portion of the hindlegs. The toes can be white as well.

● Blue American Staffordshire Terrier

A blue AmStaff is darker in tone. It is so dark that a novice might take it as black. But in fact, it is not black but a heavier shade of blue. Just like black Staffordshire Terrier, a blue AmStaff is thoroughly blue. All the visible skin is the same color. The eyes are dark. There are no patches of white or any other color.

● Blue and White American Staffordshire Terrier

A blue and white American Staffordshire Terrier has a blue-colored base with white patches here and there. The white portion in this type of Terrier is comparatively more in comparison to the white portion of Black and White Staffordshire Terrier.

The face is white with blue patches on it as well. You may find a blue spot over the ear or around the eye. The neck, forelimbs, and hindlimbs are generally white. The white patches may also be visible on the body of this AmStaff.

● Blue Brindle American Staffordshire Terrier

The Blue Brindle American Staffordshire Terrier is somewhat similar to the Blue AmStaff. It has stripes that resemble gray with a tinge of fawn. The whole body is covered in dark-colored stripes. Even the face, legs, and tail exhibit the same color. The darker shade of fawn may also be found along with the stripes of the body.

● Blue Brindle and White American Staffordshire Terrier

When a blue brindle American Staffordshire Terrier has patches of white, it is a blue brindle and white AmStaff. The position of white patches is similar to that of black and white and blue and white AmStaffs. White spots can be found on the face, neck, body, and preferably on the fore and hind legs.

● Blue Fawn American Staffordshire Terrier

A blue fawn Terrier looks like a brown-colored dog. The skin is colored blue fawn throughout. The shade may range from a lighter version of blue fawn to a darker one. There are no patches of any other color. However, the nose may have a black patch around it.

● Blue Fawn and White American Staffordshire Terrier

This kind of Staffordshire Terrier has white spots on a blue fawn skin. The skin is colored white rather than having any patches in specific areas. Usually, the neck, front and hind legs are white in color and the rest of the skin is blue fawn.

● Blue Fawn Brindle American Staffordshire Terrier

Blue Fawn Brindle is a cross between blue fawn and blue brindle. This type of AmStaff has a blue fawn body with blue brindle stripes. The nose and mouth area is slightly darker or might be black. The rest of the body has dark gray stripes.

● Blue Fawn Brindle and White American Staffordshire Terrier

It is a blue fawn brindle AmStaff with white portions of the skin. The lower body is preferably white with an occasional white patch on the face and legs. The rest of the dog has a fawn base and brindle stripes that appear dark gray in color. The stripes do not run across the white patches.

● Fawn Brindle American Staffordshire Terrier

Fawn brindle resembles very much the blue fawn brindle. Both have a fawn skin with gray stripes running along the body. The only difference is that the fawn brindle Staffordshire Terrier has a greater number of stripes and these are darker in tone.

● Fawn Brindle and White American Staffordshire Terrier

It is a fawn brindle dog with white patches over the skin. The blue fawn brindle and white and fawn brindle and white look exactly alike. The difference is that in fawn brindle and white, the stripes are darker in tone.

● Fawn Sable American Staffordshire Terrier

This fawn American Staffordshire Terrier looks like a light brown or golden-colored dog. The fawn sable AmStaff resembles a blue fawn. But where the blue fawn displays darker shades of color, the fawn sable is lighter in color and has lighter notes.

● Fawn Sable and White American Staffordshire Terrier

The fawn sable and white American Staffordshire Terrier is a fawn sable AmStaff with occasional patches of white on the face, around the neck, on the back, and in the fore and hind legs.

● Red Brindle American Staffordshire Terrier

Red Brindle is a darker shade of brown with even darker gray stripes. The red brindle is a much darker shade of brown that in all the contrasts of brown displayed by AmStaff, would stand champion in the darkness of tone. The gray stripes on its body are further dark giving this dog a wild look.

● Red Brindle and White American Staffordshire Terrier

It is a red brindle dog with patches of white. The white contrasts with the darker red brindle and makes the appearance agreeable.

● Red Sable American Staffordshire Terrier

Red sable is one note darker than the blue fawn and two notes darker than the fawn sable Staffordshire Terrier. In this way, it is the darkest brown in the color scheme.

● Red Sable and White Staffordshire Terrier

A red sable with white patches of skin is red sable and white Staffordshire Terrier.

A Brief Introduction to American Staffordshire Terriers

Origin and History

American Staffordshire Terrier was introduced to the United States in the mid-eighteenth century. It is a close relative of English Staffordshire Terrier that adopted differant characteristics after it was brought to the United States.

The Staffordshire Terrier was a cross between Bulldog and Terrier dog breeds. It was specifically bred to become a blood sports champion. The blood sports are history now and the wildness of this breed has been tamed. It has been civilized enough that it has become a darling of the family dog owners as a beloved family pet. They are also used as guard dogs.

AKC Size specifications

According to American Kennel Club (AKC), male AmStaff ranges from 18 to 19 inches in height whereas the female dog has an average height of 17 to 18 inches. The male dog weighs 55 to 70 pounds whereas the female dog is 40 to 55 pounds in weight.

American Staffordshire Terrier Traits

American Staffordshire Terrier is considerably bigger than many small-sized dogs. It is a popular belief that small-sized dogs are ideal for apartment living. The truth is against it. Many small-sized dogs are so full of energy that they can’t live in an apartment. AmStaff, on the other hand, goes perfectly well for people living in apartments.

The Am Staff is an intelligent dog and understands the commands of its owner perfectly well. And this trait makes it an ideal dog for novice dog owners. You just need to establish leadership over it and you are good to go.

Am Staff has a short coat. A short coat means that it is moderately sensitive to touch and cuddling. With a short coat, Am Staff is an easygoing dog. It is very tolerant and resilient.

But a short coat also means that it cannot keep itself warm in winters. Hence, it needs to stay indoors in winters to avoid catching a cold. However, Am Staff can withstand the heat. But you should avoid taking your dog out in extreme heat, let alone make it exercise under the sun.

The most prized characteristic of the American Staffordshire Terrier is its friendliness. Some dogs want to stay aloof, laying in their beds all day – not with AmStaff. The dog loves to be around and interact. It is full of energy that keeps it going all day. It likes to stay busy and join you all day long no matter how much work you command it to do.

The AmStaff is kind to older kids as well. Children love the affectionate presence of the Staffordshire Terrier. It bonds well with the kids. But being a muscular dog, can sometimes be harsh with the kids. Hence, it is advised that the dog and children’s time should be supervised by an adult.

American Staffordshire Terriers are very aggressive to other dogs, however. It cannot tolerate the presence of any other dog. With early socialization in the form of training, this defect can also be overcome. These terriers make great family pets and also are good guard dogs.

Finally, the puppy continues into adulthood and becomes a playful, loving, sociable, and loyal dog that is loved by its family.

Summing Up

The Staffordshire Terrier exhibits a range of colors. Some of which are solid colors such as black, blue, fawn, and brindle while others are striped with darker tones. Occasional patches of white create variations in the color scheme of this dog.

The color range displayed by American Staffordshire Terrier is remarkable. You would find many colors that you may have not heard of earlier. But now you know that your much loved Staffie comes in multiple shades and colors. Find the perfect one for you and your family.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, American Staffordshire Terrier Information.

Male Pomeranian Vs Female Pomeranian Comparison

October 2, 2023July 3, 2021

Pomeranian puppies are small-size bundles of love in fluffy coats that never want to leave your side. Most of the time, pet parents ask if should I get a male or female Pomeranian. Prospective Pom owners usually have many questions about the male Pomeranian vs. female Pomeranian puppy question.

They often ask if male or female Pomeranians are better or if is it better to get a male or female Pomeranian.

As a longtime, very dedicated member of the Pomeranian dog community, I could easily ask the owners of these toy breed dogs for their thoughts.

Over 14,000 Pomeranian owners were polled about the “male Pomeranian vs. female Pomeranian” question. The results of this Pomeranian poll were not a surprise, with a 50/50 result obtained.

Whether you choose a Pomeranian male or female, it doesn’t matter. However, experienced Pomeranian breeders and owners can explain a slight variance between male and female pups.

Vital Stats about Pomeranian Dogs

Here are some important stats that are common in both Pomeranian male and female dogs:

Stats	Description
Dog breed group	Toy group
Purpose	Companion dogs
Temperament	Lively, bold, inquisitive
Average height	8-11 inches
Average weight	3-7 pounds
Energy level	Moderate
Exercise requirements	Low
Grooming needs	Medium
AKC breed popularity	23 out of 200
Life Expectancy	12-16 years

Male Pomeranian vs. Female Pomeranian Size Details

The Pomeranian is one of the few dog breeds where the female Pomeranian’s size should be slightly bigger than that of the male Poms. Pomeranians often have difficulty whelping litters, and having the female slightly larger than the male Pomeranian is thought to assist Pomeranian breeders.

Male Pomeranian

Average Height: 7 – 12 inches ( about 20 cm tall).
Average Weight: 3 – 7 pounds (American Kennel Club breed standard). The English Kennel Club size for Pomeranian males is 4 – 4.5 lbs. (1.8 – 2kg).
Build: Male Pomeranians are slightly smaller in build.

Girl Pomeranian

Average Height: 7 – 12 inches ( about 20 cm tall).
Average Weight: 3 – 7 pounds. ( American Kennel Club breed standard). The English Kennel Club size for Pomeranian females is 4.5 – 5.5 pounds (2 – 2.5 kg).
Build: Female Poms are slightly bigger in build.

Temperament Difference Between Male vs. Female Pomeranian

Remember that every Pom will have a personality that may not fit these generalizations. As for every generalization, there are always exceptions.

The Female Pomeranian

Here are some of the personality traits of female Pomeranians:

Female Poms are independent and stubborn. This is due to their strong-willed temperament.
They demand attention and want to rule the pack. They determine pecking order and intent upon exercising dominance by participating in alpha behaviors.
Female Poms are territorial and need to be socialized. Otherwise, they may get too protective over their favorite family member.
Female Pomeranians will love to be around you all day, every day. When the girl Pom has had enough, she will move away.
The male and female Poms are incredibly affectionate and loyal to their families, and they’re not aggressive.
Females love to exercise their dominance, and they love to get away with doing their own thing.
Most females are not aggressive. However, most fights usually break out between two females fighting for dominance.
During the heat cycle, female Pom may become moody and withdrawn. This is mainly due to hormones rapidly rising and dropping. It may also be due to discomfort and abdominal cramping.
Females are very successful in trying to outsmart you.
Female Pomeranians are usually less distracted during training. They want to get this training thing over and done.
Female Poms tend to become more reserved or dignified with age.

It is always best to spay a female Pomeranian to keep her healthy unless you are keeping her for breeding purposes.

The Male Pomeranian

Here are some of the personality traits of boy Pomeranians:

Pomeranian males are very sweet-natured. They love staring at you and will likely want to stay in your lap all day. Their number one reason for living is to worship you.
Male Poms can be very fun-loving. They act silly-like and will want to play games well into old age.
Pomeranian males are usually more affectionate, spirited, steadfast, and less moody. You can’t help giving them all your attention because they are charming.
Male Pomeranians become very attached to their human family. They will love you with all their heart, no matter who you are.
Male Pomeranians are more accepting of other pets in your house. Boy Poms are, in most instances, easily motivated by praise and food, thus making training easier.
Male Poms can be easily distracted from training. In most instances, they are easily motivated by praise and food.
Neutered boy Poms rarely exhibit secondary sexual behavior such as “humping” or “marking.”
When urinating, male Poms lift their legs to mark territory, which can ruin things. However, if neutered at a young age, many males will not need to mark territory.
Male Poms are slightly more massive than their female counterparts.

It is always best to neuter a male Pomeranian to keep him healthy unless you are keeping him for breeding purposes. Remember that the differences between male and female Pomeranians can also be more pronounced in spayed and neutered dogs.

Male Pomeranians vs. Female Pomeranians Health Problems

Research hasn’t established that male or female Pomeranians are more susceptible to certain health issues. However, it is worth noting that dogs that haven’t been neutered tend to have a higher risk of facing serious health concerns, irrespective of their breed.

Health conditions for both male and female Pomeranians include:

Both male and female Pomeranians have the same average life expectancy. However, gender-specific diseases are risks for both male and female Pomeranians.

Female Pomeranians have the risk of developing breast cancer and uterine cancer. The possibility of these problems can be greatly reduced or eliminated once the female Pom is spayed.

Male Pomeranians are at risk for prostate problems and testicular cancer. The possibility of these problems can be greatly reduced or eliminated once the male Pom is neutered.

Breeding Considerations for Pomeranians

Male Pomeranians tend to achieve sexual maturity earlier than females, typically around the 6-month. Although they can technically breed from 6 months of age, it’s recommended to delay breeding until after they’re a year old.

For female Pomeranians, experts generally advise waiting until 18 months before breeding to safeguard against potential health issues.

Male vs. Female Pomeranian Grooming

Pomeranians have a glamorous, thick, double coat. There is an undercoat of soft, thick, fluffy hair and a long, straight, shiny top coat that’s harsh to the touch. Both male and female Poms require a lot of grooming. Pomeranians are considered to shed moderately.

Male Poms typically blow their undercoats once a year. Female Poms who are not desexed often shed their undercoats when they are in season after they deliver a litter and whenever they are stressed. So, if you own a girl Pom, expect a lot of shedding throughout the year.

Pomeranian Gender Myths

Many intending Pomeranian owners have gender-based questions concerning Pomeranians. We will try our best to answer most of the questions and correct some common gender myths about Pomeranians.

Myth 1: Female Poms are easier to train than their male counterparts

It is largely believed that boy Poms are difficult to train while females are easier to train, but this is largely untrue. Both male and female Pomeranians have issues with training, although the reasons for these challenges differ. Male Pomeranians get distracted easily, while female Poms have an inherent stubborn nature. Regardless of these problems, many pet owners have successfully trained their male and female Pomeranians. All it takes is patience and consistency.

Myth 2: Female Poms are more affectionate than their male counterpart

This is perhaps the most common myth about Pomeranians, and that’s untrue. The female Poms tend to bond quite early, but they do bond with an individual rather than a family. Male Pomeranians, especially females, will bond easily with as many family members as possible. You can safely say that male and female Pomeranians have a loving and affectionate temperament.

Myth 3: Female Pomeranians don’t express dominant traits

A common misconception is that girl Poms don’t possess dominant traits and are very easy-going. In reality, female Pomeranians often fight for dominance in a kennel. Two female Pomeranians are more likely to get into fights than two male Pomeranians are.

Myth 4: Female Poms are easier to housebreak than male counterparts

Both male and female Pomeranians have the same issues and can be house-trained simultaneously. You need to be consistent and show patience. Both male and female Poms can be housetrained in a few weeks, and it is neither easy nor more difficult for any gender.

Are Male or Female Pomeranians Better?

A Pomeranian that fits your personality and blends well into your family is the best Pom for you. Regarding Pomeranians, personality outweighs gender at any time of the day. You should learn how male and female Pomeranians behave, the reasons for their behaviors, and how you can manage and train them.

Is it Better to Get a Male or Female Pomeranian?

While there are differences in the sexes, male and female Pomeranians are cuddly and loving creatures. They will brighten your day and want you to go everywhere you go. Many dog lovers with male and female Pomeranians will tell you that the little differences don’t matter in the large picture.

While it’s natural to wonder if a male or female Pomeranian might be a better fit for you, it’s important to remember that a dog’s behavior is largely influenced by its early training and the environment it grows up in.

No concrete research indicates significant behavioral differences between male and female Pomeranians. Thus, your choice between a male or female Pom should be based on your preference.

There’s nothing wrong with getting a male, female, or even both! It’s all up to your preference and personality. The worst mistake you can make is to adopt a Pomeranian based on vague and unfounded information.

My Take on Pomeranian Male vs. Female: What’s the Big Deal?

There is nothing cuter than a pair of Pomeranians bouncing around your house. The small pack can be all males, all females, or a mixture of both. Here’s what I want to say about the Pomeranian male vs. female debate:

“Don’t base your decision on gender myths and hearsay. The most important aspect is the individual health and personality of the Pomeranian. In most cases, whether you choose a male or female Pomeranian does not matter. ”

Denise Leo, Dochlaggie Pomeranians.

So, rather than wondering whether to get a male or female Pom, you should talk to a responsible breeder about personality and health issues to look out for. These little furry creatures will create a happy, joyful atmosphere in your home.

If you want to know more about Pomeranians, please get in touch with me. I would love to hear from you. Best of luck with your new Pomeranian member!

More Pomeranian Information is available on the Pomeranian Resource Website

Pomeranian Dog Breeders

Pomeranians Australia

References and Further Reading:
[1] Official Standard of the Pomeranian (AKC). American Kennel Club, 2011.
[2] Official English Kennel Club Pomeranian Breed Standard, 2017.
[3] Kimbering Pomeranians “1891-1991”.
[4] Denise Leo, The Pomeranian Handbook.
[5] E.Parker, The Popular Pomeranian.
[6] L.Ives, Show Pomeranians.
[7] L.Ziegler Spirer & H.F. Spirer, This is the Pomeranian.
[8] FEDERATION CYNOLOGIQUE INTERNATIONALE (FCI) German Spitz, including Keeshond and Pomeranian Breed Standards. PDF file.

The Pomeranian Handbook by Denise Leo

Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby

September 1, 2023March 31, 2016

Congratulations! A human baby is on its way. You’re probably flat out preparing, buying nappies and other necessities and also setting up the nursery. Unless you’ve had one or more children, a baby care class might be wise too. However, even with all this happening, you must also prepare your pet for this major life change.

Your dog will know something is happening. The pregnant mother will have changes in scent and body, as well as behaviour. Even if you’re adopting or have a surrogate mother, the energy in the house will change and your dog will know it.

Your dog won’t know exactly what’s happening or what’s required of him. The more preparation work you can do with your pet today, the easier it will be for the family once the baby has arrived. These pointers should help.

Get professional help for problem behaviour changes. If your dog is aggressive, that needs to be curbed immediately. Fear and/or separation anxiety may creep in and they still need to be handled. Maximise your time prior to the new arrival when time will be a real premium.

Reinforce limitations, boundaries and rules. Maybe you get a bit lazy over behaviour issues. That was ok then but now it’s not. Small irritations must be addressed so your dog knows they’re no longer acceptable. Be consistent and clear about your expectations of your pet.

Set up safe dog-free baby areas.
Your dog will be banned from the nursery and won’t be allowed to jump up on baby’s playpen. Include those areas in your boundary list. Put your baby’s items out and warn your pet that he must stay off them.

Be wary of excitable behaviour.
Dogs get excited easily, especially around new things and people. Something small now may be serious later so you need to ignore his hyperactive times and reward him when he’s calm.

Establish a new routine.
The care of a baby will drain every drop of energy from your body, especially in the first few months. It will get a bit easier after that but the work won’t stop. This means you’ll have less time for your pets and their routine will also be affected. Get them used to as much as you can before baby is born. Then it will seem a bit easier for you and them. If you have others walking your dogs, start them doing that now.

Buy a jogging stroller or baby carrier.
If you want to walk your dog, get some exercise yourself and bring baby with you, these can help. Practice before baby is added to the mix. Take the stroller or carriage and your dog for walks so he gets used to the added extras.

Get a recording of a baby crying.
Find a track of a baby crying and play it as loud as you can whilst doing your chores. Obviously it’s not the real thing but it will help both you and your beloved pet adjust to the endless noise. You may discover issues your dog has with that sound and can address it before it becomes real.

Expose your pet to children and other babies.
Provided it’s safe, get your pet used to the smells and energies of other babies and children. Seek advice from other parents and children about their experiences and how to teach your dog how to handle different scenarios. You might find some issues you didn’t expect because dogs act very differently to children than to adults.

Begin today.
Some things might be hard to do if you have bouts of nausea as you cope with end stages of pregnancy. Less energy won’t help either. However, the moment baby is born, it gets even harder so begin today and you’ll be thankful you did. If you don’t retrain your pet, you may face the upsetting task of having to find him a new home if he and baby can’t live together.

Be positive about your pet and your baby enjoying life together. Despite the tips here being about preventing potential problems, there will be some amazing moments between your new baby and your beloved pet, both of whom you love equally in different ways.

Your dog may surprise you at how fast he accepts baby as part of the pack. As baby ages, their bond will strengthen. Dogs have an uncanny way of being in tune with the people they live with. Pregnancy is a monumental time in your life and your dog will instinctively sense it. However, he won’t know exactly what’s happening until it happens and even then, it will take some adjusting.

Tips to prepare your dog for the new baby’s arrival.

Leadership should be your focus. You have nine months to handle most problems, anticipate other issues that may occur and iron out unwanted behaviours. You’re the lack leader. If you want help, hire a professional. You’ll realise just how vital the work you put in prior to giving birth will be once baby is home and you see your beloved pet is calm and well-behaved.

Be wary of your own energy levels. Pregnancy doesn’t only affect the mother. Everyone is affected, whether human or animal. You may feel tired, excited, worried, stressed, exhausted and a whole gamut of emotions, many of which your dog will copy.

Claim your baby’s smell. Bring home from hospital something that smells like the baby, for example, a burp cloth. Set boundaries and help your dog get used to the scent. Let him sniff it from a distance first. You’re establishing that it’s your item but you’re giving him permission to sniff it. “This belongs to me and you must obey my rules when you’re around this scent.” This helps to set up a process of creating respect for your baby.

Establish nursery boundaries. Start with off-limit boundaries. Train your pet to understand there’s an invisible barrier around the nursery and unless you allow it, he can’t enter. After a while, you might let him smell things in the room, while you’re watching. Do this a few ties even before you bring home your baby. You choose when it’s time to leave the room. Your pet will learn that the baby’s room belongs to the leader of the pack and is to be respected all the time.

Manage the first introduction perfectly. First take him on as long a walk as he can handle so he runs out of energy. Before entering the house, wait on the doorstep to ensure he’s in a calm, submissive mood. The moment you both go inside, he’ll smell a new, somewhat familiar, scent. The person who is holding baby must be calm. Let your dog smell the baby but from a distance. Don’t bring him too close yet. Eventually you can let him get closer (if he’s behaving). This process teaches him that the baby is another pack leader and needs to be respected.

Teach your baby. Once baby gets into the exploratory phase, you need to supervise all contact between dog and baby. Baby should be taught not to pull his tail or ears and not to annoy him. Mutual respect lessons can begin as early as you want. There are thousands of cases of children provoking peaceful dogs accidentally because they had been unsupervised or hadn’t been properly taught right from wrong.

Don’t ignore your beloved pet. It’s easy to focus on the new baby. While your dog doesn’t need to be held and patted every second, he still needs food and water and regular exercise, as well as playtime. He still needs to see you as his leader. These things will ensure he feels secure and will enable him to relax now the family has a new addition.

Forget about the breed. Don’t falsely assume that your dog will behave in a certain way because of his breed. Establish your leadership and manage his behaviour and you should have no problems.

Your child’s safety has to come first. If you spend time on your own and/or with a professional and you’re not 100% confident that your baby will be safe with the dog around, then you’ll need to find your dog a new home, sad as that may be.

How Much Do Dogs Sleep?

March 20, 2024April 10, 2015

Does it appear that your dog sleeps all day and night, barely waking for food and a potty break? When do dogs sleep you ask, as your dog’s appears to sleep all night and nap all day?

Keep reading to learn about dog sleeping habits and find the answer to your question “How Much Do Dogs Sleep?”

Dogs sleep very differently to people and not just in the way they physically sprawl out. Their frequency and duration elements are very different so let’s look at these in detail.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Sleep a Day?

How much do dogs sleep on average? The short version is “it depends.” People have a general pattern of being awake for 10-12 hours and then sleep for 8+ hours during the night. Dogs don’t have a standard routine of sleep.

How Long Do Dogs Sleep?

How much do dogs sleep in 24 hours? They nap numerous times through the day. Your dog will wake up anytime food is available, and this includes snacks and treats as well as his main meal.

He’ll wake up to go for a walk, to bark at people at the door, to scare the postman, and so the list goes on, and then he’ll inevitably have another nap.

How Dogs Sleep?

Research suggests that when a dog sleeps, as little as 10% is spent in REM sleep. This is the active period when he also dreams.

People spend 20-25% of their sleep time in REM sleep. The reason for the big difference is that dogs sleep in shorter bursts so there’s less chance of them achieving REM sleep.

Dogs don’t need the same amount of deep sleep that people do. This means they need to nap more often to ensure they have sufficient rest.

How Much Do Dogs Sleep In a Day?

What time do dogs sleep? If you add it all together, a dog can sleep anywhere between 12 and 18 hours each day.

The range is big because certain elements will affect how much sleep they get and at what end of the range they’ll generally be in.

These elements include:

Is it Normal For Puppies to Sleep a Lot? How Much Do Puppies Sleep?

Why puppies sleep more than adult dogs. Puppies sleep a lot, as they have shorter battery lives and when they’re awake, they run around a lot and literally end up exhausted so they need to sleep to recharge themselves. Quality sleep time for puppies is necessary for the pup’s development and growth.

How Many Hours Per Day Do Puppies Sleep?

Puppies are babies and babies require lots of sleep. Puppies generally require 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day. Puppies sleep a lot and play a lot.

How Much Do Adult Dogs Sleep?

How much do older dogs sleep? Do old dogs sleep a lot? Senior dogs also sleep more. Because they’re older, they need extra energy to do the things that they could easily do when they were younger. As with puppies, they have to recharge more frequently.

Level of Dog’s Activity

Very active dog breeds don’t sleep as much as low active dog breeds. One reason is that they have extra energy and are more active for a larger part of the day than the dogs who lead lazy, sedentary lifestyles. Working dogs, such as search and rescue, police and service dogs, work for a large part of each day and sleep less.

Companion dogs and dogs that are home on their own for most of the day may sleep more often because they’re bored. If this is your dog, learn how to keep him mentally and physically active.

Dog’s Diet

If your dog’s diet is lacking in quality, it will slow him down in two ways. Firstly, he doesn’t receive enough nutrients to make him energised so he becomes quite lethargic. Secondly, low quality food has fillers and some hard to digest ingredients.

Compare this to yourself after a big meal. You feel like a nap because your body is pushing extra energy into your digestive system because of the additional workload.

Your dog’s systems have to focus on digesting the tough foods and that leaves less energy for playtime. It’s crucial to learn about what goes into the food you choose for your dog.

Larger breeds Sleep More Than Smaller Dog Breeds

For example, Newfoundlands and St. Bernards will sleep up to 18 hours per day. These dogs are great for apartments because their energy is low and they can live in the smaller spaces, providing you walk them regularly.

How Much Should Dogs Sleep?

Learn how much sleep is regarded as normal for your particular dog. Then you’ll notice if your dog just wants to sleep too much or your dog is sleeping more than normal and can work out what is wrong. It may be a dietary change, lack of exercise, sickness or something else. If necessary, contact your vet for advice or an examination of your dog.

It’s a good idea to get a sense for how much sleep is normal for your dog. Then if you notice a sudden change in dog sleeping habits, you’ll know something is going on. A change in dog daily sleep may be as a result of a food alteration, needing more exercise, a change in life cycle, or something wrong internally.

If you notice a sudden change, take a look at what may be causing it and call your vet if needed. Research reveals that dogs sleep a bit like people do, with the same cycles, and this includes a certain amount of REM sleep.

How we know this, is due to the fact that that research has been done to compare a human’s sleeping brainwaves and a dog’s sleeping brainwaves. So we can assume that dogs do dream.

What Sort Of Dreams Do Dogs Have?

What Are Their Dreams About?

It’s hard to know what dogs actually dream about because you can’t ask them to tell you. People sometimes think about dreams when they’re awake. So it’s natural to think that dogs can also dream about the things that happen to them.

Watch Your Dog Sleep

Do you ever watch or listen to your dog while he’s asleep? His whimpers might be sounds of him barking at the postman. When his paws twitch, he may be dreaming of happily roaming through the local park. Even though the body is semi-paralysed while he sleeps, you can see small indicators of what he may be dreaming about.

Modern research supports this theory. An article in Psychology Today tells of research conducted with rats to work out what occurred when they were sleeping. They ran in mazes during their waking hours, while monitors measured the activities in their brain while in the different sections.

While they slept, their brains were also monitored and the results were exactly the same as when they were running in the mazes when they were awake.

This proved that the rats were reliving their daytime activities while they were asleep. Dogs have a higher level of brain function than the rats have. Therefore, it’s very likely that if the rats have the capacity to dream about their daily lives during dreams, then they dogs could as well.

Can Dogs have Nightmares?

You can’t know for certain if your dog has night mares. However, it’s logical to assume that if he experiences a stressful event during the day, that stress and fear can easily continue into the dreams. If you believe your dog is experiencing a nightmare, don’t wake him up. Dreams occur during the deep REM cycle, the same cycle that enables you to rest the most.

If you wake your dog while this is happening, you’ll disturb his rest and hell most likely be confused as well. If he has ongoing nightmares, use Rescue Remedy or something similar to ease his anxieties and stress.

If you believe your dog has vivid dreams, you’re most likely correct. Dogs do have dreams and it’s probably about their daytime activities. When you see your dog having a dream, think about what he may have experienced during that day to learn what his dreams might be about.

Final Thoughts on How Much Should Dogs Sleep?

So the answer to how much sleep a dog will get varies enormously according to size, age, diet and exercise regime, but it will usually be 12-18 hours per day.