The lifespan of Pomeranians is usually around 10 to 16 years.
This range is wide because different studies and authorities have arrived at very different estimates.
Whether your Pom reaches the age of 10 or the age of 16 depends on a few things. These include: genetics and the care they receive during their life.
So, how can you make sure your Pomeranian lives as long as possible?
Measuring the lifespan of Pomeranians
There are many ways to estimate a dog breed’s life expectancy. But these results vary by country, breeder practices and general care.
The lifespan has been estimated in various ways. The combined results suggest they are one of the longer-lived breeds.
Small breeds generally have a longer lifespan than large dogs. Their age can reach into the double digits. Or, in some cases, even up to twenty years. This is because small dogs age more slowly than larger dogs.
As a breed, Pomeranians have a reduced risk of many life-threatening health problems, including cancer, the most common type of terminal disease in dogs.
The health problems these dogs are more prone to are therefore usually not life-threatening. These conditions include issues with their teeth, eyes and skin. But patellar luxation, or dislocated kneecaps, is another common problem.
How long do Pomeranians live?
Based on data from a dog cemetery in Japan, they live on average fourteen years. However, this method for estimating life expectancy often excludes deaths that occur at a young age or dogs that are less well cared for.
A British survey of dog owners produced a shorter estimate of ten years. But this is based on only 22 owner reports. So it may not be a very robust estimate.
The British Kennel Club estimates that a Pom’s life will exceed twelve years. Likewise, the American Kennel Club suggests 12-16 years.
Moreover, there are frequent reports of Pomeranians older than 20 years.
All together this suggests a typical lifespan of 10-16 years.
Oldest Pomeranian
According to PetPom, the oldest recorded lifespan of a Pomeranian was 21 years, 8 months and 13 days.
Many people report older ages, but they are not officially documented.
How you can maximize your Pomeranian’s life expectancy
If you adopt a Pomeranian puppy from a breeder, ask about the lifespans of closely related dogs.
There are tests available for the few serious or life-threatening health problems known to occur in Pomeranians. These include:
- Hyperuricosuria (a blood disorder that causes bladder stones).
- Degenerative myelopathy (a neurological condition that can cause loss of coordination in older dogs)
- Gallbladder mucoceles (a condition that can lead to rupture of the gallbladder).
Can these be prevented?
All of these hereditary diseases have a known genetic cause and mode of inheritance. They can therefore be prevented with responsible breeding practices.
Pomeranians come in many coat colors. But some should be avoided. The spotted “merle” coat pattern and albino colors are associated with reduced health and conditions such as deafness. Many kennel clubs will therefore not register dogs with these coat colors.
For all dogs, the main factors that improve lifespan are avoiding obesity and neutering in males.
Pomeranians are somewhat prone to obesity. Research shows that less frequent meals, avoiding treats such as table scraps, and regular exercise reduce the risk of a dog becoming overweight. Discuss your puppy’s body condition with your veterinarian and ask for their advice if your puppy starts to gain excess weight.
Risks to a Pomeranian’s lifespan
Swedish researchers found that the deaths of Pomeranians were often caused by “trauma”. In other words: physical injury from accidents. This is likely because Pomeranians are a small breed and are therefore relatively vulnerable and prone to being stepped on by pedestrians.
But you can reduce the risk of traumatic injury by puppy-proofing your home. Also, do not leave your dog unsupervised in potentially dangerous environments.
Conclusion
In short, the Pomeranian is fairly robust for a toy dog. This is partly due to the reduced susceptibility to many life-threatening diseases such as cancer.
You can have your dog genetically tested to prevent passing on the few serious hereditary conditions known to affect the breed.
Owners should, of course, take care to prevent obesity and to prevent their dogs from straying or getting injured.
The Pomeranian has a typical life expectancy of 10 to 16 years and, in responsible hands, is usually at the older end of this range or beyond.
