Big Pomeranian: The Throwback Pom Guide to Size, Care & Health

What Is a Big Pomeranian? Understanding the Throwback Pom

If you've ever seen a Pomeranian that looks noticeably stockier, taller, or heavier than the typical teacup-sized version strutted around dog parks, you've likely met a big Pomeranian — often called a "throwback Pom." These dogs aren't a separate breed or a mixed breed. They are purebred Pomeranians that fall outside the American Kennel Club breed standard, which calls for a weight of 3–7 pounds. A big Pomeranian typically weighs between 10 and 20+ pounds, sometimes reaching the size of a small Spitz-type dog.

The term "throwback" refers to the Pomeranian's ancestral roots. Before Victorian-era breeders miniaturized them, Pomeranians descended from larger Arctic Spitz dogs used for sled pulling and livestock guarding in the Pomerania region (modern-day Poland and Germany). These original dogs weighed 30–40 pounds. Today's throwback Poms carry more of those ancestral genes, resulting in a larger frame while retaining the breed's signature double coat, fox-like face, and bold personality.

It's important to understand that big Pomeranians are not recognized as a separate variety by the AKC or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). They are simply Pomeranians that exceed the breed standard's weight limit. This means they cannot compete in AKC conformation shows, but they are fully eligible for obedience, agility, and rally events — and they make outstanding companion dogs.

Physical Characteristics: How Big Does a Throwback Pomeranian Get?

The most common question prospective owners ask is straightforward: how big does a big Pomeranian actually get? The answer varies, but here are the ranges based on documented throwback Pom sizes:

• Small throwback: 10–14 lb (4.5–6.4 kg), 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• Medium throwback: 14–18 lb (6.4–8.2 kg), 12–14 inches (30–36 cm)
• Large throwback: 18–25+ lb (8.2–11.3+ kg), 14–15+ inches (36–38+ cm)

Most throwback Poms fall in the 12–18 lb range. They retain the classic Pomeranian proportions — a compact, square body with a plumed tail that curls over the back — just scaled up. The head is wedge-shaped with erect, triangular ears and dark, almond-shaped eyes that give them their characteristic alert, fox-like expression.

The double coat is the breed's crowning glory. The undercoat is soft, dense, and thick, while the outer coat is longer, straighter, and harsher to the touch. Throwback Poms come in all standard Pomeranian colors: orange, red, cream, sable, black, blue, chocolate, parti-color (white with colored patches), and merle — though merle is controversial due to associated health risks when two merle dogs are bred together.

One practical advantage of the larger frame: throwback Poms are generally sturdier than their toy-standard counterparts. They're less prone to accidental injury from being stepped on or dropped, and their slightly larger bone structure can mean fewer issues with luxating patellas and tracheal collapse — two conditions that plague very small Pomeranians.

Temperament & Personality: What Living With a Big Pom Is Really Like

Throwback Pomeranians carry the same bold, extroverted temperament as standard Poms — just wrapped in a slightly more robust package. Here are the core traits you can expect, with real behavioral examples from multi-dog households and owner reports:

1. Confident and Bold
A big Pomeranian doesn't know it's supposed to be small. They'll approach dogs ten times their size at the park without hesitation, stand their ground when a delivery driver approaches, and claim the center of the couch like they own it. This confidence makes them entertaining companions but requires early socialization to prevent bossiness with other dogs.

2. Alert and Vocal
Pomeranians were bred to be watchdogs, and throwbacks retain that instinct fully. Expect barking at doorbells, passing cars, squirrels in the yard, and any unfamiliar sound at 2 AM. They are not nuisance barkers without cause — they bark to alert. However, without training, that alert barking can become excessive. Teaching a "quiet" cue using positive reinforcement (rewarding silence after a single alert bark) is essential from puppyhood.

3. Affectionate but Independent
Unlike some toy breeds that are velcro dogs, big Pomeranians tend to be affectionate on their own terms. They'll curl up next to you on the couch, follow you from room to room, and greet you enthusiastically at the door — but they're equally content entertaining themselves with a puzzle toy or watching the yard from a window perch. They don't typically develop separation anxiety as severely as some breeds, though individual variation exists.

4. Intelligent and Opinionated
Throwback Poms learn commands quickly but aren't always eager to comply. They'll master "sit," "down," and "shake" in a few training sessions — then look at you like your request is beneath them. This isn't stubbornness in the traditional sense; it's a Spitz-breed trait of evaluating whether a task is worth their effort. High-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small pieces of chicken) and short, game-like training sessions work far better than repetitive drills.

5. Playful and Energetic
Don't let the fluffy appearance fool you — big Pomeranians have genuine stamina. They enjoy fetch, flirt pole sessions, agility tunnels, and hiking on leash. A throwback Pom is more likely to keep up on a 2-mile walk than a standard 5-lb Pom, making them a better fit for active owners who want a portable but capable adventure buddy.

Exercise & Activity Needs: Keeping Your Big Pom Fit and Happy

One of the most common mistakes owners make with Pomeranians — especially larger throwbacks — is underestimating their exercise needs. These are Spitz-type dogs bred for active work in cold climates. While they've been companions for generations, the drive to move is still there.

Total daily exercise target: 45–75 minutes, split across physical activity and mental stimulation. Puppies under 12 months should follow the "5 minutes of structured exercise per month of age" rule to protect developing joints — so a 4-month-old puppy gets roughly 20 minutes of structured activity per day, supplemented by free play.

In hot weather, exercise should shift to early morning or evening. Pomeranians' dense double coats make them prone to overheating, and their brachycephalic-adjacent features (shorter muzzles compared to longer-nosed breeds) can compromise cooling efficiency. Always carry water on walks and watch for excessive panting, lagging behind, or seeking shade — these are signs to stop and cool down.

Common Health Issues in Big Pomeranians

While throwback Pomeranians benefit from a slightly sturdier frame than their toy-sized counterparts, they are still predisposed to several breed-specific health conditions. Any responsible owner should be familiar with these risks and discuss screening with their veterinarian.

Recommended health screenings (per the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals): patella evaluation, hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP), cardiac exam, and ophthalmologist evaluation. If you're buying from a breeder, ask for documentation that both parents have been screened. Reputable breeders will provide OFA certificates or equivalent test results.

For Alopecia X, there is no definitive genetic test, and treatment options vary. Some veterinarians recommend melatonin supplementation (3–6 mg daily for a 15-lb dog), while others try deslorelin implants or growth hormone therapy. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any treatment — the condition is cosmetic rather than life-threatening, but ruling out thyroid dysfunction and Cushing's disease is essential first.

Grooming Requirements: Managing That Magnificent Coat

The Pomeranian's double coat is stunning but demanding. Throwback Poms have even more coat surface area to manage, making a consistent grooming routine non-negotiable.

Critical grooming note: Never shave a Pomeranian's coat down to the skin. The double coat provides insulation against both heat and cold, and shaving can cause permanent coat damage — a condition called post-clipping alopecia where the fur grows back patchy, cottony, or not at all. If you want a shorter look, request a "teddy bear trim" or "puppy cut" from your groomer, which leaves 1–2 inches of coat length.

During the twice-yearly coat "blow" (typically spring and fall), the undercoat sheds in massive quantities over 2–4 weeks. Daily line brushing — parting the coat section by section and brushing from skin outward — is essential to prevent painful matting close to the skin that you can't see from the surface.

Training & Intelligence: Working With the Spitz Mindset

Pomeranians rank among the more intelligent small breeds, and throwbacks are no exception. They learn quickly, retain commands well, and can excel in dog sports like agility, rally obedience, and nose work. However, their Spitz heritage means they think independently rather than looking to humans for constant direction — unlike retrievers or herding breeds that live to please.

Trainability rating: 7/10 — High intelligence with moderate willingness. They'll learn anything you teach, but compliance depends on motivation.

Recommended training approach: Positive reinforcement only. Force-free, reward-based methods using high-value food rewards, play, and praise. Pomeranians shut down with harsh corrections or repetitive drilling. Keep sessions to 5–10 minutes, end on a success, and vary the activities to maintain engagement.

Key training priorities for big Pomeranians:

• Leash manners: Their Spitz instinct to pull and explore makes leash training essential. Use a front-clip harness (like the Ruffwear Front Range) and reward loose-leash walking with treats at your knee level.
• Bark management: Teach a "quiet" cue by marking and rewarding the moment they stop barking after an alert. Never yell at a barking Pom — they interpret this as you joining in.
• Recall: Poms can be reliable off-leash in safe areas with consistent recall training, but their prey drive toward squirrels and small animals means you should never trust recall in unfenced areas without extensive proofing.
• Crate training: Essential for housebreaking and safe confinement. Introduce gradually with meals and treats in the crate. Most Poms adapt within 1–2 weeks with consistent positive association.

Family Suitability: Kids, Pets, and Apartment Living

One of the biggest advantages of a big Pomeranian over a standard toy Pom is family compatibility. A 15-lb throwback can handle the accidental bumps and roughhousing that would injure a 4-lb dog. Here's how they fit into different household types:

With children: Good with children ages 8 and up who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. The larger size means less risk of injury from a child picking them up or tripping over them. However, Pomeranians are not patient "nanny dogs" — they'll walk away when they've had enough, and young children should be supervised to respect those boundaries. Not recommended for homes with toddlers who may grab fur or tails.

With other dogs: Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized from puppyhood. Throwback Poms are less fragile in multi-dog play than toy Poms, but their bold nature means they may challenge larger dogs. Supervise introductions and intervene if your Pom is being overly assertive with a dog that doesn't appreciate it. Same-sex aggression can occur in intact males.

With cats: Variable. Pomeranians have moderate prey drive, and some will chase cats while others coexist peacefully. Early exposure and positive reinforcement for calm behavior around cats improves outcomes significantly.

Apartment living: Excellent apartment dogs — they're compact enough for small spaces, don't need a yard (walks and indoor play suffice), and adapt well to urban environments. The main concern is barking, which can disturb neighbors. Invest in early bark management training and consider white noise machines or calming music when you're away.

Cost of Ownership: What a Big Pomeranian Actually Costs

Budgeting for a throwback Pomeranian requires understanding both the upfront purchase price and the ongoing annual costs, which are higher than for toy Poms due to increased food, medication, and grooming needs.

Puppy purchase price (2026 estimates):

• From a reputable breeder (health-tested parents, AKC registration): $1,500–$4,000
• From a backyard breeder or online marketplace (not recommended): $500–$1,500
• From a Pomeranian rescue or breed-specific rescue: $300–$800

Throwback Pomeranians are sometimes less expensive than show-quality toy Poms from champion bloodlines, since breeders focused on conformation may price non-standard-sized puppies lower. However, a responsible breeder who health-tests parents will still charge appropriately for the care invested.

Over a 14-year lifespan, expect to spend between $28,000 and $67,000 on a big Pomeranian, not including the initial purchase price or any emergency surgeries. Setting aside an emergency fund of $1,000–$3,000 or maintaining active pet insurance is strongly recommended.

Is a Big Pomeranian Right for First-Time Owners?

Yes — with some caveats. A throwback Pomeranian is actually one of the better Pomeranian options for first-time owners because the larger size makes them easier to handle, less fragile, and generally more forgiving of beginner mistakes. They don't require specialized knowledge beyond what any responsible dog owner should learn.

However, first-time owners should be prepared for:

• The grooming commitment — this is not a wash-and-wear breed
• The barking — you'll need to actively train bark management
• The independence — if you want a dog that hangs on your every word, consider a different breed
• The cost — grooming and dental care add up significantly

If you're willing to invest in puppy classes, commit to a grooming routine, and accept that your Pom will have opinions about everything, a big Pomeranian can be a wonderful first dog.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Pomeranians

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health, nutrition, and treatment decisions specific to your dog.