Pomeranians descend from larger German Spitz dogs and take their name from Pomerania, a Baltic coast region. Queen Victoria's fondness for small, colorful Poms helped shrink the breed to the three-to-seven-pound dog most people picture, with a plumed tail, pricked ears and a standoff double coat. Some Poms in homes and shelters run heavier than that, so expect variation.
In Evansville, the coat is the main care task. Brushing a few times a week keeps the undercoat from matting, and shedding is moderate to high, heavier when the coat blows. Poms are bold, curious and quick to bark, so they do best with adults and older children who handle small dogs gently. Dental care, joint protection from furniture jumps and steady training are worth planning for from day one.