How Pomeranian Origined?

Pomeranians are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world today, but few people know their fascinating history. This toy-sized breed, known for its fluffy coat and lively personality, has roots that trace back thousands of years to some of the hardiest dogs on Earth. To understand how these pint-sized pups came to be, we have to go back to their ancestors, their name, and the pivotal influence of royalty that shaped them into the small companions we see today.

The Ancient Ancestors of the Pomeranian

Pomeranians are part of the spitz family, a group of dogs characterized by their:

• Thick, weather-resistant double coats
• Upright, pointed ears
• Curled tails that arch over their backs

These features were developed over thousands of years in harsh Arctic and sub-Arctic climates. The spitz dogs were bred by early humans as working dogs. Their strong, sturdy bodies allowed them to pull sleds, herd reindeer, and guard property in regions like modern-day Siberia, Scandinavia, and other northern territories.

Pomeranians are closely related to breeds like the Samoyed, the Keeshond, and the Norwegian Elkhound. These larger spitz dogs had the strength to survive freezing temperatures and harsh conditions. If you look at a Pomeranian today, you can still spot their heritage in their thick coats, small but sturdy bodies, and alert expressions.

The transformation from a working Arctic dog to a tiny lapdog didn’t happen overnight. It required centuries of selective breeding and a few influential people who fell in love with their charm.

The Region of Pomerania

The name Pomeranian comes from Pomerania, a region along the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, covering parts of modern-day northern Poland and eastern Germany. In this temperate area, the large, sturdy spitz dogs—descendants of Arctic sled-pullers—were no longer needed for heavy work. Instead, their role shifted toward companionship. People began to favor dogs that were smaller and easier to care for while still retaining the energetic and fluffy traits of their ancestors.

Over generations, selective breeding played a crucial role in shaping the breed. Breeders chose smaller dogs to produce future litters, gradually reducing their size while keeping their thick coats and lively personalities intact. The larger spitz dogs, which could weigh up to 30 kilograms (66 pounds), started to shrink as smaller puppies were repeatedly favored. This careful selection turned the dogs into companions rather than workers, making them more suitable for homes and closer interaction with people.

The science behind their size change was simple, even if people didn’t fully understand it at the time. Smaller dogs naturally produced smaller offspring when paired together, and breeders relied on observation to encourage this pattern. Over time, this consistent focus on size resulted in smaller, lighter dogs, though these early Pomeranians were still larger than what we see today—often weighing between 10 to 14 kilograms (22 to 30 pounds). Their thick fur remained a key trait, both for its visual appeal and for the region’s colder winters.

By the 18th century, these smaller spitz dogs had become well-loved companions across Pomerania. They were active, playful, and affectionate, fitting perfectly into village homes and farms. Families appreciated their charm, intelligence, and ability to adapt to a more relaxed way of life. Their lively nature and fluffy coats made them stand out among other dogs, giving them an air of elegance that would later capture the attention of royalty.

Pomerania provided the perfect setting for this transformation. Its moderate climate allowed the breed to keep their thick coats without the demands of Arctic life, and its people valued practicality and beauty, making the smaller spitz dogs ideal companions. These early Pomeranians were the first step toward what the breed would become—a journey that began in this quiet corner of Europe and soon spread to homes and hearts across the world.

The Arrival of Pomeranians in Europe

Pomeranians may have originated in the Baltic region, but their popularity exploded when they made their way to the courts of Europe’s royalty.

Queen Charlotte (1767)

The first significant mention of Pomeranians in England comes from Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III. In 1767, Queen Charlotte brought two Pomeranians with her when she traveled to Britain. Her dogs were much larger than modern Poms, more akin to their medium-sized spitz ancestors.

While they charmed those who saw them, Pomeranians didn’t yet catch the public’s imagination. Queen Charlotte’s dogs were likely admired but not widely bred or popularized. That would come over a century later with the influence of another monarch.

Queen Victoria and the Miniaturization of Pomeranians

If there’s one person responsible for turning Pomeranians into the tiny, fluffy companions we see today, it’s Queen Victoria of England. Her love for dogs is well documented, and she kept a variety of breeds throughout her life. However, her fascination with Pomeranians sparked a dramatic change in the breed’s history.

In 1888, while traveling through Italy, Queen Victoria fell in love with a particularly small Pomeranian named Marco. Unlike the larger spitz dogs of her time, Marco weighed just 5.4 kg (12 pounds). Queen Victoria brought Marco back to England, and he quickly became her favorite dog. She would often be seen with him in public, which created a surge of interest in the breed.

Victoria became a breeder and advocate for smaller Pomeranians. Her royal kennel produced many Pomeranians, and she personally oversaw their development. As a result, breeders across Britain began to focus on creating even smaller Pomeranians with the characteristics Victoria adored:

• A fluffy, compact coat
• Small size (under 5.4 kg)
• Energetic and playful personality

By the time Queen Victoria passed away in 1901, the breed had transformed. The standard size of the Pomeranian had been reduced dramatically, and their popularity spread like wildfire throughout England and beyond.

The Rise of Pomeranians Worldwide

Thanks to Queen Victoria, Pomeranians became a favorite among the wealthy and elite. The breed’s small size made them ideal for city living during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their lively personalities and elegant appearance also made them popular in dog shows, where they quickly began winning competitions.

In 1891, the Kennel Club of England officially recognized the Pomeranian breed. Soon after, Pomeranians made their way to the United States, where the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized them in 1900.

During this time, breeders continued to refine the Pomeranian’s appearance. The breed became smaller, fluffier, and even more refined. By the mid-20th century, Pomeranians had firmly established themselves as a top toy breed.

The Modern Pomeranian: Traits and Personality

Today’s Pomeranian weighs between 1.8 to 3.5 kg (4 to 8 pounds), a far cry from their sled-pulling ancestors. Despite their small size, they retain a big-dog attitude—confident, alert, and full of energy.

Key traits of modern Pomeranians include:

1. Double Coat: Their thick, fluffy fur consists of a soft undercoat and a longer, straight outer coat. This double coat gives them their signature “puffy” look but requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
2. Fox-Like Face: Poms have pointed ears, bright eyes, and a narrow muzzle, which gives them their alert and intelligent appearance.
3. Lively Temperament: They are active, playful, and love being the center of attention. Despite their size, they make great watchdogs because of their alert nature and tendency to bark at unfamiliar sights and sounds.

Pomeranians: From Past to Present

The Pomeranian’s journey from sled-pulling Arctic dogs to beloved toy companions is nothing short of extraordinary. Over thousands of years, humans selectively bred these hardy working dogs into elegant, lively pets fit for royalty and families alike.

Despite their transformation, Pomeranians have held onto their roots. That thick coat, alert expression, and energetic demeanor are reminders of their strong spitz heritage.

Today, Pomeranians are among the most popular toy breeds worldwide. They thrive in homes as loyal companions, charming their owners with their big personalities and fluffy charm. Whether they’re strutting their stuff in a dog show, starring on social media, or curled up on their owner’s lap, Pomeranians continue to capture hearts everywhere.

In a way, Pomeranians are living proof that greatness doesn’t come from size—it comes from spirit. These tiny dogs have traveled a long path, from Arctic giants to royal favorites to modern-day stars. One thing has stayed the same: their boundless energy, loyalty, and ability to bring joy to anyone lucky enough to share their life with them.