The Pomeranian: A walking cotton ball
		by BUDDY AMATO
		The Pomeranian looks much like a brownish-red walking cotton ball. Originating in Germany and dates back to the 1800s, it comes from the family of the Spitz, which is located in the northern section of Germany. It is the smallest member of the Spitz family and is mostly classified as a companion dog. At one time, believe it or not, it was thought that its ancestor were sledding dogs! Exactly when it was bred down to the current size is unknown. The Deutscher Spitz was its ancestor and weighed up to30 pounds, a far cry of what the Pomeranian is now. The Pom, which is a nickname for the breed, weighs up to three or four pounds. The typical color of the Pom is brownish red; however, they do come in a variety of colors and all colors are acceptable as far as the American Kennel Club standards are concerned. The Pom lifespan is roughly 12 to 16 years of age and its temperament is playful. For a small dog, it acts as if it is much larger as far as its boldness goes. This breed is standoffish towards strangers and can be aggressive with other dogs. Poms need a person who is willing to brush and keep it well groomed at least twice a week. This breed, even though it has a thick coat, does not fair well as an outside dog; they need to be exercised but also need the availability of being kept inside in bad weather. Appearance-wise, the Pom has a curled-up tail and has a body that looks square in proportion. It has small, bear-type ears and a fox-like expression as far as its facial looks goes. Other features include a short neck, almond-shaped, small, high-set erect ears, a wedge-shaped head, a tail that arches over its back and is carried flat, compact feet and a fox-like face (except that the Pom has a much shorter snout). Did you know.... That the Pomeranian is related to a breed that was a sled-puller? That the Pomeranian is from Germany, however, its roots are from Pomerania? That the Pomeranian is also related to a breed that comes from England? It was the English who dubbed it with the name "Pomeranian", even though one of the ancestors was the Deutscher Spitz. Grandmaster Buddy Amato operates Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, 589 Palmer Avenue, West Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom. For more information, call (732) 671-9555. Return to top More Columns Copyright Buddy Amato Amato's Goju-ryu Karate, Nunchaku, Bo-staff, Aikido, Sword, Kendo, Sais, Kick-boxing, Tai-Chi and more 589 Palmer Ave, Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom, NJ 07734 (732) 671-9555