Pomeranian weight: how big do they get?

If you look at the Pomeranian dog breed, you probably want to know how big they will grow or what the Pomeranian weight is. This will help you plan ahead, set your expectations and know how to best meet them if you decide to take one home. I decided to investigate the average growth rate and potential of a Pomeranian. I want to share this information with you today. The average adult size of a Pomeranian is between 20 and 30 centimeters, depending on genetics and care. It is important to understand that the Pomeranian breed information and characteristics go beyond just their weight; these adorable dogs are also known for their lively character and loyal nature. By learning more about these traits you can better meet their needs and create mutual expectations.

So, how big do Pomeranians get? The average Pomeranian will reach 18 to 30 centimeters in height and weigh between 1.5 and 6 kg, while 3 to 5 kg is often considered ideal. Occasionally a litter may include puppies that are larger and reach between 4 and 7.5 kilograms. A Pomeranian is a square-proportioned breed with a short back; with a body length to height ratio of 1:1. They are considered a compact breed with a characteristic double coat and tail.

Pomeranians are known for their impressive and elegant coat and small stature (compact with a short back). They are in fact the smallest member of the spitz family and are often classified in the smallest size categories for dogs.

However, they actually descend from sled dogs – so their ancestors were much larger and more physically robust.

Now let’s take a closer look at how large a Pomeranian typically becomes before we break down the average growth rate of this breed during the puppy years. Be sure to keep reading, because you will even get a breakdown of the factors that can influence their growth-rate potential; and what all owners should be aware of.

Average size of a Pomeranian

The Pomeranian (Keeshond) is a pure dog breed, recognized by kennel clubs around the world.

If you have heard the terms ‘toy’, ‘miniature’, ‘teacup’ or ‘micro’, these usually refer to a Pomeranian that is smaller than the average expectation. They are still largely the same breed.

However, it is important to know that size and weight can vary quite dramatically among Pomeranian dogs.

Their eventual size and growth potential are largely influenced by their genetics, lineage and a few other environmental factors that will be under your control as an owner. Not all Pomeranians are bred trying to meet the breed standard.

Ultimately, if you want a good indication of a dog’s potential size when visiting a breeder, you should look at the parent dogs. That is why it is so important that you visit the breeder for selection.

You will also want to ask specific questions to a breeder; especially about the dog’s lineage, how they were bred and about their breeding practices.

Although a Pomeranian will be significantly more expensive from a reputable breeder, it is strongly advised not to buy a dog from a puppy shop. These not only typically use unethical practices, but dogs from such breeding practices are usually more prone to health problems and conditions shortly after you bring them home or later on.

While height is largely determined by genetics, weight can of course be influenced by how you feed your dog. Overfeeding can lead to unwanted weight gain, while underfeeding can lead to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth. So also read our feeding guide for Pomeranians.

Both will cause problems, so it is very important that you feed your dog appropriately for its activity level and age, using the best quality food you can afford.

Finally, it is important to mention that some Pomeranians differ from the average breed size.

Some litters may include puppies that weigh 4 to 6 kilograms or more. These puppies usually have larger dogs in their ancestry and are likely to have genes inherited from larger spitz-type dogs in their lineage.

Also know that these slightly larger Pomeranians generally have better health than the very small Pomeranians.

Although this is more the exception than the rule, it is worth being aware of and something you may want to discuss with a prospective breeder.

Average Pomeranian weight

Pomeranian weight usually ranges between 1.8 and 3.5 kilograms. Although they are small, they have a sturdy build. It is important to monitor a Pomeranian’s weight to promote a healthy and active life. Too much or too little weight can cause health problems, so ensure a balanced diet and sufficient exercise for your small companion.

Now that you know how much a Pomeranian may weigh, we can move on to the Pomeranian withers height.

How big does a Keeshond get?

First it is important to know that there are different types. There are different sizes. They all come from the same ancestors. The only difference arose from selecting dogs with certain characteristics.

Below we will briefly discuss the 3 different types:

How big do Pomeranians get?

The average withers height of a Pomeranian is between 23 and 30 cm. The weight is about 2.5 to 5 kg, depending on the size.

The Small Keeshond

They will have an expected withers height between 25 and 35 cm, just a little larger than the Pomeranian. You can then expect a weight of 5 to 10 kg.

Large Keeshond or Large Pomeranian

The withers height of these dogs ranges between 40 and 55 cm and so they are the largest of the three. The weight is about 22 kilos, depending on the size.

We also have a detailed article about the difference between Pomeranians and Keeshonds.

When is a Pomeranian fully grown?

As a small dog you can expect your Pomeranian to reach its full adult size when it is between 12-15 months old. Generally: the smaller the dog, the faster it will reach adulthood.

That said, a puppy will still gain (especially muscle mass) and fill out even after they have reached their final height and size. For this breed you can expect it to be 18 months – 2 years. It is during this time that you can consider them fully mature and expect them to be as large as they will naturally grow.

The following growth chart for dwarf Kees shows the growth rate of this breed from birth and throughout the puppy years. This will let you know exactly how large a Pomeranian gets.

It will help give you an idea of a puppy’s size depending on its birth weight (which can vary quite a bit between puppies). Remember it should only be used as a reference guide. There are always exceptions to the norm.

As you can see from the table above, the larger your Pomeranian is at birth, the larger they will ultimately become and the faster their growth rate will be.

Factors that influence Pomeranian size and weight potential

Not all Pomeranians will reach the same size. Nor will they all reach their full potential. It is important as a prospective owner to be aware of the reasons they may not develop as they should.

Specific health issues and conditions of the Pomeranian, for example, can slow growth. We will look at some of these below.

Furthermore, there are other lifestyle factors you should be aware of and certain ways you should raise them.

Let’s examine some of the factors that will undoubtedly affect your dog’s size and growth potential in more detail and some things you should do as an owner.

# 1 – Genetics

The full adult size of a Pom largely depends on the genes they inherit from their parents.

However, other dogs in the line can also impact your dog’s size. So even if a dog’s parents are smaller, a larger litter is still possible and does occur in this breed.

It has also been noted that full adult Pomeranian weight can differ between the sexes. This is partly because females generally do not have as thick or long a coat as males.

There are also three conditions this breed can be born with that can affect their overall size.

These are:

• Patellar luxation (kneecaps that slip out of place),
• Collapsing trachea
• Hypothyroidism

The first two cause structural developmental problems in any Pomeranian unfortunate enough to inherit them. They can also be made worse by the way you care for and maintain your dog.

The latter, also known as a slower metabolism, essentially means that all processes in the dog (including growth) are not functioning at an optimal level.

Too often these conditions are not detected early enough. In such cases a dog will not receive the treatment it needs to prevent an impact on its growth.

For this reason it is essential to ensure your dog is screened shortly after you get them.

You will also want to make sure you get your dog from a reputable breeder who follows ethical and safe breeding practices and whose litters have been checked.

# 2 – Injuries and health problems

Following possible hereditary diseases, there are a few other considerations Pomeranian owners should keep in mind, such as possible injuries and other health problems.

Smaller Pomeranians often experience issues related to their size.

The most common is hypoglycemia, where your dog struggles to maintain stable blood glucose throughout the day. If blood glucose drops too quickly, this can cause many problems. Therefore it is recommended to feed a Pom regularly throughout the day: 3-5 appropriate and healthy small meals and snacks, evenly distributed.

Structural issues like collapsing tracheas are most often found in smaller Pomers. The less flattened the muzzle, the lower the risk. To help avoid this problem, always use a harness for your dog and not a collar when walking on a lead.

With this breed you should also be aware of proper handling practices. If you drop them it can cause injury, so make sure this does not happen. You should also secure them when traveling in a car with an dog seatbelt.

If you notice health problems occurring shortly after you get your dog, you should consult your breeder as soon as possible. They will refer you to their vet. They can run some checks/tests to make sure they are not in pain or have structural problems that could lead to growth delay.

It is also important to consider that a puppy with health problems may not be able to move as much as it would like or should.

#3 Nutrition

Nutrition plays an important role in providing the energy your dog’s body needs to grow and develop. However, there is an optimal amount you should feed – being underfed is just as bad as overfeeding.

Undernutrition can lead to nutrient deficiencies; where your dog does not get the energy, vitamins and minerals its body needs to grow new body tissue, muscles and bones.

Alternatively, overfeeding can lead to weight gain that can put a lot of strain on their skeleton and lead to structural problems, as mentioned above.

Food quantities can vary and should be adjusted to the Pomeranian, their needs, requirements, age and activity level, but this is a rough guide to follow:

• A puppy of 0.5 kg requires about. ½ cup of food.
• A dog of 1.5 kg needs about 1 cup of food.
• A 2.5 kg Pomeranian dog needs about 1.25 cups of food.
• 3+ kg Pomeranian dog needs 2 cups of food.

The food you provide is just as important.

Processed, human food is not suitable to give your dog.

You should provide your Pom with a balanced diet; appropriate for their size and age to keep weight at the best possible level and to ensure they do not receive too little / too much food.

It is a difficult balance – preventing your dog from being undernourished, growing too quickly and becoming overweight. Yet it is very important.

Therefore you should buy the best quality dry dog food you can afford.

It is also a good idea to discuss your dog’s nutritional needs with your vet, as they can help you determine the right amount for them.

Be careful when giving treats and other scraps, both in terms of quantity and sources of food. Not all foods are suitable and treats can easily cause overfeeding in addition to the dog’s regular diet.

​#4 Exercise

Pomeranians need adequate exercise; they do not require excessive exercise like some other breeds (e.g. a Siberian husky).

However, they do need some activity – both for physical and mental reasons.

Exercise helps Poms stay at a healthy weight as they grow – it’s good for their joints, bones and muscles.

A Pomeranian should have a short walk each day of 20 to 30 minutes.

Additionally you should try to give them time for free play and other mentally enriching activities to prevent boredom. This will also keep them healthy and well-behaved.

Pomeranians are a fairly energetic breed, especially in their puppy years, but individual dogs will have their own energy levels that exercise can be tailored to.

One thing to watch is not to overdo walks with this breed. Especially for young puppies. While your dog’s bones and frame are developing, excessive walking and activity can actually cause injury and damage, affecting their growth plates.

Also be careful that they don’t jump on and off furniture or fall from heights to the ground.

# 5 – Sleep

Finally, you must ensure your Pom gets enough sleep and rest to grow as well as possible.

Younger pups generally sleep more and this is to be expected and should not be disturbed.

You should make sure your dog has a safe, clean and comfortable sleeping environment so they can get the shut-eye they need.

Certain beds ensure your Pom can relax and be as comfortable and warm as possible to allow for a good rest period. Read our beds guide for a Pomeranian.

You also want them to sleep without being awakened regularly, ensure there are no loud noises, stick to a sleep/wake schedule and avoid drafts.

Poms can be affected by temperature fluctuations and often have difficulty regulating their body temperature. Drafts and night temperatures can cause extra stress and even prevent them from sleeping properly.

Ultimately, adequate sleep supports the best possible growth and development.

In conclusion

Compared to other breeds, the Pomeranian is larger than a Chihuahua, but smaller than a Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Shih-Tzu and Pug. As such it is one of the smallest dogs you can realistically adopt.

However, you should be aware that Pomeranians vary quite dramatically, largely due to the genes they inherit from their parents and the ancestry of the dogs in their lineage.

If you are looking at Pomeranians, it is very important to take the parents’ size into account, as you can expect all resulting pups in the litter to reach a similar size. A puppy can take on the full size of either the mother or the father.

Perhaps the most important thing you can do when getting a dog is to buy from a reputable breeder with safe, ethical breeding practices.

This ensures your dog has the best start in life and is less likely to have health problems after you bring them home or later in life. A good breeder ensures their litters have been properly screened, examined and vaccinated as required. They will also breed from superior lineage – which can be traced through generations.

It will cost you more, but you owe it to your dog and your family.

Finally, the Pomeranian is a great family pet. In temperament they are pleasant, eager to please more than some breeds and alert and responsive. Training, although it may take time, is not overly difficult for most owners with perseverance and patience.

Pomeranians are a very loyal and very intelligent dog breed in a small and cuddly package.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is a Pomeranian?

The Pomeranian is a small type of Keeshond, however there is no fixed standard. But as a rule they are usually between 18 and 30 centimeters tall at the shoulder and weigh 2.5 to 5 kilograms. Their small stature makes them perfect as companion dogs.

How much should a Pomeranian weigh?

The ideal weight for an adult Pomeranian usually ranges between 3 and 5 kilograms.

How can I check if my Pomeranian is a healthy weight?

You can check a Pomeranian’s weight by weighing regularly and comparing against standard weights for the breed. A healthy weight is determined by both appearance and the feel of your dog’s ribs.

My Pomeranian seems overweight. What should I do?

First it is important to know which type of Pomeranian you have; there are larger and smaller Pomeranians. If your Pomeranian seems overweight, you can review their diet and exercise routine. Reduce calorie intake and increase physical activity to promote weight loss. Always consult your veterinarian for tailored advice.

Is it normal for Pomeranian puppies to grow quickly?

Yes, it is normal for Pomeranian puppies to grow quickly at first. However, ensure their weight gain is gradual and follow your breeder’s guidelines to avoid overfeeding.

How can I ensure my Pomeranian maintains a healthy weight?

To help a Pomeranian maintain a healthy weight, provide them with a u003ca href=u0022https://www.woefkesranch.be/en/pomeranian-weight/