Pomeranian care on Cape Ann

The AKC rates the Pomeranian four out of five for barking and for watchdog nature, and describes an alert, highly intelligent dog that makes a fine watchdog. VCA notes that some Poms bark a lot, which should be discouraged from an early age, and describes a one-family dog that tends to be aloof with strangers, so early socialization that teaches it to accept new people matters. Calm, positive introductions to visitors help a Pom that would otherwise announce every one of them.

In a group, size is the first question for a dog this small. Our playgroups of 7 to 10 are matched by size and temperament, and VCA suggests dog parks only where small dogs play together. Whether a small-dog group suits your Pom is decided at the free evaluation, weekdays between 6:30 and 9:30 AM. Outdoors, the Gloucester Dog Park at Stage Fort Park has its own section for dogs under 25 pounds, and our Pomeranian board-and-train page covers doorbell barking in detail.

The AKC warns that toy dogs like the Pom can have trouble with the kneecaps of the hind legs, and that jumping from heights, which for a Pom can mean the couch, risks injured joints or broken bones. VCA describes what a slipping kneecap looks like at home: a skip in the step, or a few strides on three legs before the dog is back on four as if nothing happened. That pattern is worth a vet visit. A ramp or steps to the sofa, and lifting the dog down, save a lot of jumps.

The windpipe is the other weak point. VCA names Pomeranians among the breeds most often affected by tracheal collapse, describes a dry, harsh, honking cough that can worsen with excitement, heat or pressure from a collar, and advises weight management and a harness rather than a collar. VCA also warns that a little overfeeding makes a Pom overweight quickly and that the thick coat can hide it, so feel for the ribs with your hands. Walk a Pom on a harness and keep treats tiny.

VCA notes that a Pom's thick coat gives some protection from cold but that its small body still makes it vulnerable. On a January morning with wind off the harbor, keep outings short, dry a damp coat thoroughly, and rinse road salt from the feet after a Gloucester sidewalk, since salt lodges in the fur between the pads. Puppies need extra thought: VCA says very small Pom puppies are prone to hypoglycemia and should be fed often, so a long day needs a feeding plan.

Outdoors, the AKC's reminder is to stay with a Pom, because hawks and owls can mistake a small dog for prey. If the evaluation places your Pom in a group, it plays under supervision on the indoor floors and the turf yard, a half day is $33 and a full day $42, and the Pup Van collects in Rockport, Gloucester, Essex and Manchester-by-the-Sea for $10 each way. Bring Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella records and a current city license to the free evaluation.