Pomeranians might look like little bundles of joy, but owning one can be a handful. Sure, they’re fluffy, and their faces are adorable, but these tiny dogs come with big challenges.
Before you rush to adopt one, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s explore why some people think Pomeranians might just be the worst dogs for certain lifestyles.
Why Do People Love Pomeranians?
Before we get into the reasons why Pomeranians can drive you crazy, let’s acknowledge why people love them in the first place. Here are a few reasons:
- Small size: Perfect for small homes or apartments.
- Loyal and loving: They form strong bonds with their owners.
- Energetic: These little guys are full of energy and excitement.
- Cuteness overload: Let’s be real, their fluffy coats and fox-like faces are irresistibly cute.
But don’t let their cuteness fool you—there’s a lot more to owning a Pomeranian than meets the eye!
Pros and Cons of Pomeranians
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of owning a Pomeranian:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cute and fluffy | Excessive barking |
| Small size, great for apartments | High-maintenance grooming |
| Loyal and loving | Prone to health problems |
| Fun and energetic | Difficult to train |
| Always alert and protective | Can be bossy and stubborn |
| Compact size makes them easy to carry | Prone to separation anxiety |
Why Pomeranians Are The Worst Dogs?
1. They Bark All the Time
If you’ve never heard a Pomeranian bark, get ready. These tiny dogs are loud. They will bark at everything:
- A leaf falling outside.
- A bird flying by.
- Even their own shadow!
And when they start barking, they don’t stop. It’s like having an alarm that goes off for the smallest things. If you enjoy peace and quiet, a Pomeranian might not be the best choice.
According to Dr. Stanley Coren, a canine behaviorist, Pomeranians are often vocal because they were bred as watchdogs. Their barking comes from a place of wanting to protect their territory, even if that “territory” is your living room.
2. A Lot of Grooming is Required
One thing no one tells you is how much grooming Pomeranians need. Their fluffy coats are beautiful, but they require constant care. If you don’t brush them regularly, their fur can get tangled, which can lead to:
- Matted hair
- Skin problems
- A very uncomfortable dog
Plus, Pomeranians shed—a lot. You’ll find their fur everywhere: on your clothes, on the couch, and even in your food if you’re not careful!
If you’re the type of person who likes a clean house or doesn’t have the time for regular brushing, owning a Pomeranian could drive you mad.
3. Bossy Attitude
Don’t let their small size fool you. Pomeranians have big personalities and often think they’re the boss of the house. They will try to boss around other pets, larger dogs, and even you!
It’s part of their charm, but it can also be frustrating. Pomeranians can become demanding and want everything done their way. If you’re not firm, they’ll take charge, and you might find yourself catering to their every whim.
4. Health Issues
Pomeranians look tough, but they can be prone to several health problems. Experts have noted that Pomeranians can suffer from:
- Dental problems: Their small mouths often lead to tooth issues.
- Knee problems: Their tiny legs can develop joint problems, like patellar luxation.
- Tracheal collapse: Pomeranians have sensitive throats, which can make breathing difficult.
Regular vet visits are a must, and these issues can add up to high medical bills. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Science, small breeds like Pomeranians are more prone to certain health issues, meaning pet insurance might be a smart idea.
5. Very Stubborn
Pomeranians are stubborn—really stubborn. Training them requires a lot of patience. They’re intelligent dogs, but they don’t always want to listen. You might find them ignoring commands, and potty training can take a while.
They have their own agenda and will only do things when it suits them. If you don’t have the time to deal with this kind of attitude, you’re in for a frustrating experience.
6. They Get Super Clingy
Pomeranians are known for being clingy. They love their owners so much that they hate being left alone. This can lead to separation anxiety. If you work long hours or are away from home often, your Pom could:
- Bark all day.
- Destroy furniture out of frustration.
- Get depressed or anxious.
Dr. Karen Becker, a holistic veterinarian, states that small breeds like Pomeranians are highly attached to their owners, and leaving them alone for long periods can cause behavioral issues.
7. Surprisingly Destructive
Despite their size, Pomeranians can cause big destruction. If they’re bored or left alone for too long, they’ll start chewing on things. Shoes, pillows, and even furniture aren’t safe from their tiny teeth!
It’s surprising how much damage a dog this small can do, but trust me, they can wreak havoc on your home if you’re not careful.
8. Bad at Socializing
Pomeranians can be a bit awkward around other dogs and people. They tend to be suspicious of strangers and can get overprotective. This makes them:
- Bark at anyone unfamiliar.
- Have trouble at the dog park.
- Take a while to warm up to new people.
They’re not as social as some other breeds, so if you want a dog that’s easy-going with everyone, you might need to consider another breed.
9. Not Great With Kids
If you have small children, you might want to think twice before getting a Pomeranian. These dogs are small and fragile. Kids can accidentally hurt them during rough play, and Pomeranians don’t always have the patience for high-energy children.
They can also snap or growl if they feel threatened, making them not the best choice for families with very young kids.
10. Training Isn’t Easy
Despite their intelligence, Pomeranians can be hard to train. They have short attention spans and get bored quickly, which means you need to keep training sessions short and engaging.
- Potty training can take longer than expected.
- They might not always listen, even when you know they understand the command.
- If you’re a first-time dog owner, you might find them a bit overwhelming to handle.
Dog trainer Victoria Stilwell points out that Pomeranians need consistency and patience. Positive reinforcement training works best with them, but it requires time and dedication.
Are Pomeranians Ever a Good Choice?
Despite their challenges, Pomeranians aren’t all bad. They can be wonderful pets for the right person. Here’s who they might be great for:
- Someone who works from home: Poms need attention and don’t like being left alone.
- A person who enjoys grooming: Their fluffy coats are high-maintenance, but some people love the grooming process.
- People without small children: Pomeranians do best in homes without toddlers or young kids.
- Someone with patience: If you’re up for the training challenge, they can be incredibly loyal and loving.
Conclusion: Is a Pomeranian Right for You?
So, should you get a Pomeranian? Well, if you don’t mind the barking, grooming, and health issues, and you have the time and patience to train them, then yes, a Pomeranian could be a great companion.
However, for many people, their high-maintenance nature and stubborn attitude can make them one of the hardest breeds to own.
Before you decide, think carefully about your lifestyle and whether you’re ready for the challenges that come with owning a Pomeranian.
FAQs
1. Do Pomeranians bark a lot?
Yes! They’re very vocal and will bark at just about anything.
2. How much grooming do Pomeranians need?
A lot. Their fluffy coats require daily brushing to keep them from getting matted.
3. Are Pomeranians good with kids?
Not really. They’re fragile and don’t always have the patience for young children.
4. Are Pomeranians easy to train?
No, they can be stubborn and hard to train, especially when it comes to potty training.
5. Can Pomeranians be left alone?
They don’t like being alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety.
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