When choosing a Pomeranian, we can assess its purity by examining several key features, including its head, limbs, eyes, and coat. Generally, a purebred Pomeranian will have a 90-degree angle between its nose bridge and head, front legs slightly higher than the rear legs, almond-shaped eyes, and a lush, abundant coat. If a Pomeranian doesn't meet these criteria, it may not be a purebred.
Characteristics of a Purebred Pomeranian
1. Head
A purebred Pomeranian should exhibit a distinct 90-degree angle from its nose bridge to its head. The muzzle is short, thin, and pointed, forming a small triangle. The ears should be closely spaced. If the angle from the nose bridge to the head isn’t 90 degrees, it’s a strong indicator the Pomeranian is not purebred.
2. Body and Limbs
Purebred Pomeranians have front legs that are slightly higher than their hind legs, and a straight and short back. A well-bred Pomeranian should have a compact, ball-shaped body when fully grown. The tail should be set high, and the chest should be wide and deep. Conversely, mixed-breed Pomeranians typically have front and hind legs of similar height, a longer back, and a slimmer, more elongated body when they reach adulthood.
3. Eyes
The eyes of a purebred Pomeranian should be almond-shaped, not too large or protruding. The color should be dark, preferably black, and the eyes should not be set too far apart.
4. Coat
A purebred Pomeranian's coat consists of two layers: a soft, dense undercoat and a straight, coarse outer coat. The coat should be abundant, covering the entire body, with particularly profuse feathering around the head, and a long, wide ruff on the chest. Mixed-breed Pomeranians tend to have sparser coats and shorter, narrower ruffs. Pomeranians are prone to shedding, so it's important to maintain a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding salty foods.
5. Pedigree Certificate
A pedigree certificate for a purebred dog can be obtained by applying for it with the dog's birth certificate. First-generation purebred dogs are identified through DNA testing. Upon successful verification, the dog can obtain a purebred pedigree certificate authorized by a dog association. If purchasing from overseas, inquire about the pedigree certificate beforehand. Domestically, it is advisable to observe the puppy's parents directly to assess their quality.