Pomeranians, also referred to as Teddy Bear Poms, are dogs with thick and fluffy coats that make them look like cuddly teddy bears. Although the term “Teddy Bear Pomeranian” is not a recognized breed, it has gained popularity in recent years due to the breed’s adorable appearance.
However, the Pomeranian breed is more than just their teddy bear looks. Their fascinating history and noteworthy facts make them an even more intriguing breed of dog.
History of Pomeranians
The Pomeranian’s history can be traced back to its Icelandic ancestors. These arctic work dogs were used as herders, guard dogs, and sled dogs. The breed was later transported to the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, where they were downsized by selective breeding to dogs weighing between 30 to 40 pounds.
Pomeranians then spread throughout Europe and caught the attention of King George III when his wife brought her Pomeranians to England with her. This is where the breed became known as the Pomeranian.
Interesting Facts About Pomeranians
Aside from their fluffy appearance, Pomeranians have fascinating backgrounds and attributes that make them unique. Here are some interesting facts you may not know about the breed:
1. They are popular on Instagram – A Pomeranian named Jiff holds the world record for the fastest 10-meter run by a dog and has 9.6 million followers on Instagram, making them the most followed dog on the platform.
2. They survived the sinking of the Titanic – Out of over 2,000 passengers on the Titanic, only 706 people and three dogs survived. Two of those dogs were Pomeranians, one of which was named Lady.
3. Their coat comes in 23 different colors – From black to lavender, Pomeranians have an impressive range of coat colors.
Pomeranian Health Issues
Like all purebred dogs, Pomeranians are prone to some health issues. Here are some common health concerns you should be aware of if you’re considering getting a Pomeranian:
1. Patella Luxation – This common health issue in toy dog breeds causes the patella or kneecap to become loose and slide out of place.
2. Hypothyroidism – If a Pomeranian’s thyroid glands fail to produce enough thyroxine, it can lead to weight gain, dry skin, constipation, hair thinning, and other symptoms.
3. Tracheal Collapse – The windpipe or trachea of a Pomeranian can deteriorate causing it to collapse, leading to breathing difficulties and coughing.
4. Idiopathic Epilepsy – Pomeranians can suffer from epilepsy and seizures, which can be caused by head injuries, water on the brain, and severe low blood sugar.
5. Cushing’s Disease – Although rare, Cushing’s Disease can be caused by excessive stress and anxiety, leading to the overproduction of cortisol and eventually a tumor.
Other health issues that Pomeranians can experience include heart disease, severe hair loss, cataracts, and idiopathic hypoglycemia. It’s essential to monitor your Pomeranian’s health closely and take them to the vet if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Conclusion
Pomeranians are a delightful breed of dog with an intriguing history and unique traits. Their thick and fluffy coats make them look like cuddly teddy bears, which is why some people refer to them as Teddy Bear Pomeranians. Although they have no official breed name, it is evident that their adorableness has captivated people globally.
If you’re interested in bringing a Teddy Bear Pomeranian or any other Pomeranian into your home, it is crucial to be aware of their predisposition to certain health issues. However, with proper care, love, and attention, Pomeranians can provide several years of companionship and joy.
