or a ceramic floor can all be a recipe for a tragedy. Precautionary thinking ahead is mandatory. Because of the double nature and harsh texture of the Pomeranian coat, grooming is less difficult than many of the other types of pure bred dogs.
Their type of coat is made for being out in the elements. It is an insulator and a protector against extreme tem- peratures, moisture, injury and dirt. The double coat works to keep the skin surface dry, clean, safe from insect bites, scratches and helps keep body
temperatures normal. Unless it is a soak- ing rain, most moisture is also held away from the dog’s body by the dense under- coat. The correct texture does not easily mat and regular brushing will remove most dirt. Frequent nail trimming is essential for this breed. Being light on their feet as well as light in weight doesn’t lend itself to the natural filing down of their nails, so it is necessary to check the nails often for excess growth. Teeth are another important concern for all dogs, but especially small dogs such as these. They have small mouths, small teeth and small jaw bones. Food particles trap easily in the tiny crevices. They collect and harden into plaque which is a bacterial breeding ground, that can lead to gum disease, tooth loss and then potentially to heart and kidney disease later on. Scrupulous cleaning, hard-chewing type foods and treats are imperative to maintaining a healthy Pomeranian. Though Poms are no longer pulling sleds, guarding flocks or protecting boats in the canals, it is the responsibil- ity of the conscientious breeders to pre- serve what is the essence of the Pomer- anian, what makes a Pom uniquely a Pom. Currently they are mainly bred as companion animals but the core of who they are as a dog has been handed down through the centuries. They do work well in obedience, agility and in therapy dog capacities. Their “busy and inquisitive” nature likes to feel impor- tant and purposeful. They take them- selves and their jobs as seriously today as their ancestors did hundreds of years ago, even if those jobs only consist of play time, nap time or lap time.
“CURRENTLY THEY ARE MAINLY BRED AS COMPANION ANIMALS BUT THE CORE OF WHO THEY ARE AS A DOG HAS BEEN HANDED DOWN THROUGH THE CENTURIES.”
T op N otch T oys , F ebruary 2017 • 63
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