Pomeranians are the Best! (The Best Dogs Ever)

By: Elaine Landau
Publisher: Lerner Publications
Publication Date: August 2010
ISBN: 978-0761350576
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: September 17, 2010

Yippity yap! Yippity yap! Have you ever seen a little barking “fluff ball” who looks like a little lion or a miniature fox? If so, you’ve probably met the acquaintance of a Pomeranian, or Pom for short. Poms are very small dogs and only “weigh from 3 to 7 pounds (1 to 3 kilograms).” These dogs come in a variety of colors, but the orange poms tend to be the favorite of most people. All that fluff you see is actually a double coat. The inner coat is short while the outer coat is long and fluffy. The American Kennel Club (AKC) puts this little charmer in the toy group. The Pom is very sociable, quite peppy, loyal, and intelligent. They do like to cuddle, but they are also into exploring their environment. Naturally, many people who own them “say these dogs have both brains and beauty.” Perhaps this is the type of dog you’ve been looking for.

Historically, the breed was not a lap dog, but rather a hardworking dog. Believe it or not, they actually “pulled sleds and herded reindeer” in the Arctic region. They are much smaller now and the ones who do work tend to be therapy dogs. Eventually people bred smaller Poms which quickly became popular pets. Even Queen Victoria had some. Poms undoubtedly have some fine qualities and are adorable, but the author stresses that you need to make sure that you and your family will mesh well. For example, if you are athletic and want a dog to run with, the Pom might not be a good choice. If you think silence is golden, a Pom might disagree with you. In this book you’ll learn about its grooming needs, the fact that it is an inside dog, you’ll find out that it can be fiercely protective, the fact that it does not do well in a warm climate, you’ll learn about the need for proper veterinarian care, its dietary requirements, and you’ll find a list of things you’ll need before you bring a Pom home.

This is a fabulously fun look at the charming little fluff ball, the Pomeranian. This book is a wonderful overview of the Pomeranian, but it also stresses that anyone who owns one needs to be a responsible pet owner. The photographs of an assortment of Poms are utterly adorable. There are even a few vintage photographs, including one of Queen Victoria with one of her Poms and another of a prize winning “perfect Pom” sitting proudly inside a trophy as he peers at the camera. If you are planning on adding a Pom to your family, you may wish to consider purchasing a breed specific book. In the back of the book is an index, a glossary, and some additional recommended book and website resources to explore.

Quill says: If you are considering adding a Pom to your family, this is an excellent book to help your child become acquainted with not only the dog, but also the responsibility that comes with ownership!