
Pomeranians have been a popular breed for centuries, originating from Germany in the 16th century.
In order to be a successful show dog breeder, you'll need to understand the breed standard, which is outlined in the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard.
Pomeranians typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand between 6-11 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their compact size and fluffy coat make them a favorite among dog owners.
To ensure you're breeding healthy Pomeranians, you'll need to prioritize genetic diversity and work with reputable breeders who prioritize health testing.
Pomeranians are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation and tracheal collapse.
A good breeder will have their breeding stock tested for these conditions and take steps to minimize the risk of passing them on to their puppies.
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Pomeranian Show Dog Basics
A show Pomeranian is a dog that meets the breed standard, which is determined by its origin.

To be a show Pomeranian, a dog must have no discernible flaws, such as a curly tail or a tooth out of line.
Show Pomeranian breeders strive to breed as close as possible to the breed standard, and they should obtain a copy of the "Pomeranian standard" to determine if their dogs meet the official breed standard.
If you're purchasing a puppy from a show Pom breeder, there will be very little difference in the quality of the pups to the untrained eye, but when you compare a show Pom to a pet Pom, there will be significant differences.
Pomeranian Show Dog Basics
A show Pomeranian is bred to meet the breed standard, which is determined by the dog's origin. This standard is outlined in the "Pomeranian standard" document.
To become a show dog, a Pomeranian must pass extensive health testing and prove itself in the show ring. This is a rigorous process that only the best breeders take on.

Show Pomeranian breeders strive to breed as close as possible to the breed standard, which is why their dogs often look so perfect. In contrast, pet Pomeranians may have minor flaws, such as a curly tail or a tooth out of line.
If a Pomeranian breeder is serious about showing their dogs, they will participate in Pomeranian competitions prior to breeding. This ensures that their dogs are of high quality and have a good chance of winning.
The differences between a show Pomeranian and a pet Pomeranian are often very minor. In fact, pet Pomeranians can come from the same litter as show dogs.
Here are some key differences between show Pomeranians and pet Pomeranians:
It's worth noting that not all puppies from a show Pomeranian breeder will be chosen as potential show dogs. Those that don't make the cut still make great pets.
Essentials
To make your Pomeranian a top-notch show dog, you'll need to focus on the essentials. A Pomeranian's coat is its crowning glory, so regular grooming is a must.

Pomeranians require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. Their fur should be brushed gently but thoroughly, paying extra attention to the areas where their fur is longest.
A well-fed Pomeranian is a happy Pomeranian, so a high-quality diet is essential. Pomeranians need to be fed a nutrient-rich food that's specifically formulated for their size and breed.
Pomeranians need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, but they don't require a lot of space to run around. A 10-15 minute walk per day is sufficient.
To keep your Pomeranian's teeth clean and healthy, you'll need to brush them regularly. Pomeranians are prone to tooth decay and gum disease, so regular brushing is crucial.
Pomeranians are intelligent dogs that require regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress. Providing puzzle toys and engaging activities can help keep your Pomeranian's mind active.
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Level:
A Pomeranian's oversized coat requires a lot of attention to create the illusion of a shorter body. This is especially true for pet Pomeranians that have a prolific coat.
To make a Pomeranian appear to lose weight, a few strategic nips and tucks can make a big difference in their expression.
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Breed Standards and Qualifications

Breed standards are guidelines that cover the requirements of each dog breed, including temperament, movement, and appearance.
These standards have been drawn up over a long period of time and have been revised over the years by kennel clubs.
Members of the Pomeranian Club vote on changes to the standard and submit those back to the AKC for approval.
The new standard becomes an essential blueprint for future generations of this breed.
A Pomeranian show dog may have a flaw that obviously prevents him from becoming a show dog.
Show Pomeranians compete in the show ring to enable breeders to compare breeding programs.
The way that standards are interpreted varies from judge to judge.
The Pomeranian Breed Standard used within Australia can be downloaded from a specific website.
Breed Clubs often run health and grooming seminars in conjunction with their shows.
Show dogs compete so they can be judged and measured to see which ones are closest to the breed standard.
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Pomeranian Care and Grooming

Buying a show-quality Pomeranian can be a challenge, especially for novice breeders. It's wise to buy a male Pomeranian from a reputable breeder, as females are always in high demand.
To increase your chances of getting a show-quality Pomeranian, it's best to buy an older puppy, as they tend to mature better and have a higher chance of making the grade.
As a new breeder, it's smart to focus on females until you have gained experience, and then you can start a breeding program with a suitable male.
Pomeranian Care for Beginners
If you're new to Pomeranian ownership, it's essential to know that females are always in high demand, making them a good choice for novice breeders.
Buying a male Pomeranian from a reputable breeder can be a wise decision if you want to be an exhibitor with a champion Pomeranian.
Older puppies have a better chance of becoming a show-quality Pomeranian, so consider waiting a bit before bringing a new puppy home.
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Many Pomeranians look great at 8 weeks old, but often don't meet the standards for a show dog when they mature.
To become a successful breeder, it's crucial to start by focusing on females and gaining experience before introducing a male to the breeding program.
It's unwise to buy a male within the first few years of starting a breeding program, and it's often better to rent a stud from a reputable breeder.
Spend plenty of time at dog shows to learn everything involved in exhibiting Pomeranians, and don't be afraid to ask questions from experienced breeders.
If you can find a breeder who consistently produces high-quality Pomeranians, seek them out and learn from them, but be cautious of pedigrees with close breeding.
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Grooming
Grooming is vital for a Pomeranian's overall presentation, especially when showing your dog. Pomeranian show grooming is not difficult, but it takes many hours of practice to learn a suitable and correct show cut.

To groom your Pomeranian like a show dog, you'll need a variety of products including a slicker brush, pin brush, comb, normal scissors, thinning scissors, hairspray, nail clippers, baby wipes, talcum powder, and spray bottles. You can also observe your fellow Pomeranian exhibitors at the shows to see what products they use and how they use them.
Pomeranians are a double-coated breed and need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. A good grooming session can take up to several hours, but it's worth it to keep your dog looking and feeling its best.
To learn correct grooming procedures for your Pomeranian, consider purchasing a copy of a Pomeranian grooming eBook. These guides can provide you with step-by-step instructions and tips from experienced breeders and groomers.
Pomeranian Breeding and Ownership
Pet Pomeranians often come from the same litter as Show dogs. This is common in colored breedings, where the breeder selects breeding pairs based on the characteristics that should result in puppies fitting into today's competition breed standard.

The differences between pet Pomeranians and Show dogs are often very minor, and champion Pomeranian breeders closely watch the litter develop to evaluate how close a puppy meets the Pomeranian breed standard.
Not all puppies from a Show Pomeranian breeder will be chosen as potential show dogs, but they still make great companions and provide wonderful company in your home.
How Breeders Distinguish Pets from Dogs
Pomeranian breeders carefully select the best specimens to breed with, aiming to produce dogs that meet the Pomeranian breed standard.
Even small problems, like a curly tail or a tooth out of line, can mean a dog is better suited to being a pet or companion.
Show Pomeranian breeders will designate puppies as show prospects if they have no discernible flaws.
Puppies from the same litter can be both show dogs and pets, depending on their characteristics.
Champion Pomeranian breeders closely watch the litter develop and evaluate how close each puppy meets the breed standard.
Not all puppies from a show breeder's litter will be chosen as potential show dogs, but they can still make great pets.
Price Details

Pomeranian breeders can charge upwards of $10k for their show dogs.
Purchasing a pet Pomeranian from a preservation breeder is usually the cheapest option, with prices ranging from $500 to $7000.
Pet shops are often the most expensive, with backyard breeders coming in second.
Some preservation breeders may offer older Pomeranians who have been retired from showing and breeding, which can be a more affordable option.
Every Pomeranian is beautiful, regardless of size, shape, color, or standard.
Some Pomeranians may have scars from their past experiences, but they still deserve love and care.
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Pet vs Pet
If you're considering bringing a Pomeranian into your life, it's essential to know the difference between a pet Pomeranian and a show Pomeranian. Here are some key differences to keep in mind.
Pet Pomeranians, often purchased from non-show breeders, can grow much larger than their show counterparts. They can weigh up to 4.53 kgs, compared to the ideal weight of a show Pomeranian, which is between 1.81 and 2.5 kilos.
A show Pomeranian's legs are typically thick-set and chunky, with small compact feet, whereas a pet Pomeranian's legs are often flat and lack a thick coat.
It's worth noting that the weight and leg type of a Pomeranian can significantly impact their overall health and well-being. If you're considering bringing a pet Pomeranian into your life, make sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Exhibiting and Showing
To exhibit your Pomeranian show dog, the first step is to contact your State Canine Association to ask what you need to do to join. You'll find that each State Canine Association is a member of the Australian National Kennel Council Limited (ANKC).
The ANKC is the administrator for everything related to pure breed canines within Australia, but it doesn't deal directly with breeders, judges, or exhibitors. This means you'll need to go through your State Canine Association to get started.
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Exhibiting My Dog

To exhibit your dog, you need to start by contacting your State Canine Association to ask what you have to do to join. Each State Canine Association is a member of the Australian National Kennel Council Limited (ANKC).
The ANKC is the administrator for everything related to pure breed canines within Australia.
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Sportsmanship at
Remember that you're on show as much as your furry friend. In the dog show world, it's a small community and people love to talk, so be careful what you say.
A humble winner is also a good loser. This means being gracious in victory and respectful in defeat.
In the Pomeranian show dog scene, anything you say can be heard or shared. So, keep your opinions to yourself, especially in and around the ring.
Dog Lead Australia
In Australia, dog show leads for certain breeds must be fine, but strong. Pomeranians are shown on very fine leads.
Some exhibitors like glitzy show leads with beads, while others prefer thin plain cord leads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a show Pomeranian and a Pomeranian?
A show Pomeranian meets the breed standard set by the American Kennel Club, while a pet Pomeranian may not. This difference affects their physical characteristics and overall appearance.
Has a Pomeranian ever won the Westminster Dog Show?
Yes, a Pomeranian has won the Westminster Dog Show, making history as the first and only Pom to achieve this title.
Who was the famous Pomeranian dog?
Boo was a Pomeranian dog who became a global celebrity with over 5 million social media followers. This tiny pup's online fame reached unprecedented heights in the early days of internet celebrity.
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