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Pomeranians are little dogs that are famous for having fluffy, thick coats. They also make great lap dogs and have friendly, energetic personalities.
Pomeranians shed between two to three times a year seasonally and periodically throughout the year, making them a poor choice for pet owners who have pet allergies. The Pomeranian is also a high-maintenance dog when it comes to taking care of their abundant double coats. While some breeds shed more, and indeed others shed less, Pomeranians are not light shedders and require frequent grooming.
Do Pomeranians Shed a Lot?
Even with their double-coated fur, they are still considered to be moderate shedders. They will usually have a full shed in the spring and fall and shed lightly throughout the rest of the year.
Of course, all dogs shed some, and there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic animal. The Pomeranian has long fur that is prone to getting knotted and matted. You should brush your pet at least a couple of times a week for the best results. However, daily brushing is ideal.
Factors That Cause Shedding in Pomeranians
A few factors contribute to the amount of fur your little friend will shed yearly.
The Weather
You probably already know that your dog sheds in the fall to make way for a thicker coat in the winter, and in the spring to grow a lighter coat for the hot summer months. Your puppy may shed more or less depending on the climate in your area.
A Diet Lacking in Nutrients
If a Pomeranian has a diet lacking the proper nutrients, it may begin to shed excessively. If you want your Pom to shed less, a high-quality diet full of omega-3- fatty acids and the proper balance of nutrients is key. Your Pom will not only shed the normal amount but will also be healthier and happier.
Excessive Shedding in Pomeranians
- Anxiety, depression, or a bad mood
- Malnutrition after having a litter of puppies
- An illness
- Allergies from foods, medications, insect bites, shampoos, conditioners, or something in the environment
If your Pom is shedding excessively and you can’t figure out why, it’s best to get your canine friend to the vet so that they can diagnose and treat the underlying condition.
Tips for Keeping Your Pomeranian’s Coat Healthy
Even with moderate shedding, you’ll need to keep your Pom’s coat shiny and healthy, so your dog will be happy. Make sure to feed your Pom a healthy diet of high-quality dog food. Your dog will shed less and have gorgeous fur if the food you choose is full of antioxidants and based on species-appropriate nutrients. Look for foods that contain a lot of healthy fats, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids.
At the least, you should bathe your Pom once every 4 weeks. Make sure to use a hypoallergenic dog shampoo and conditioner. Bathing can keep your pet’s hair healthy and reduce the loose fur that accumulates in your home.
Shedding Season Tips
As we said before, the shedding worsens in the spring and fall with the Pomeranian.
- Brush your Pom’s fur regularly and at least twice a week
- Get a tape lint roller for your furniture and clothes, and use a vacuum cleaner
- Get haircuts at the groomer for your Pom
It’s best to avoid giving your dog a haircut yourself unless you have grooming experience. You can take your little pup to the groomer to ensure the haircut is done correctly. Since Poms are double-coated, you could seriously damage the dog’s coat if you make mistakes with the trimmer.
Are Pomeranians Hypoallergenic?
The Pomeranian is not hypoallergenic, but in reality, no animal truly is. If you have severe allergies or asthma, this breed might not be the best choice for you, though they are considered moderate shedders.
If you suffer from allergies but want a Pomeranian buddy, it’s best to talk to your doctor to see what can be done to control your allergies. Getting allergy shots is a possibility, but it can take several months or longer for your body to desensitize from reacting to dog dander.
Final Thoughts
Pomeranians are tiny canines that make perfect lapdogs and excellent pets. Their beautiful and abundant fur requires frequent grooming, and it’s best to take them to a groomer unless you’re skilled with the dog clippers. They are considered moderate shedders but not hypoallergenic, so they might not be the best choice for people who are allergic to dogs or have asthma. There are ways to reduce the amount of fur your Pom sheds, but you can also speak to a physician about allergy treatments.
Featured Image Credit: APIWICH PUDSUMRAN, Shutterstock
