Dog breeds are generally categorized: into different groups. The working group usually does some kind of work, like carrying brandy to the snowbound or guarding property. Examples of this group are the Newfoundland and the St. Bernard. The sporting group hunts by pointing, retrieving or setting. Irish Setters, German Shorthaired Pointers and Spaniels all belong to the sporting group. The herding group controls the movement of other animals, like sheep. Collies and Border Collies are members of the herding group.

Then there is the toy group. Although there are small dogs in every group, the toy group specifically includes such dogs as the Maltese, the Chihuahua and the Pomeranian. Dogs in the toy group are bred for one thing and one thing only, to provide human companionship. Your Pomeranian wants to be at your side at all times, except of course, when it's in your lap.

Pomeranian dogs are quite confident and have even been described as cocky. They are secure in their position as top dog in the household. In fact, it takes a confident owner who is not afraid to show the dog who is boss to take charge of a Pomeranian. Your Pomeranian will demand a fair amount of your attention, so be ready to deal with interruptions and disturbances while you try to read the paper or watch TV. These are little dogs with huge personalities. Pomeranians are inquisitive and intelligent, animated and alert.

Pomeranians can develop intense attachments to their owners, becoming extremely protective when they think their master is being threatened. This protectiveness leads them to be suspicious of new people and strangers. A Pomeranian's friendship must be earned. Some Pomeranian dogs yap incessantly when they encounter a stranger, especially visitors to their home territory. It's as if the Pomeranian is trying to drive the stranger away by barking at it. The Pomeranian's cocky behavior must not be allowed to get out of control, as Pomeranians have been known to act out by snapping, biting, meanness, and general unpleasantness.

Surprisingly, Pomeranians are perfectly willing to share the household with other dogs, even another Pomeranian dog. If you have never had a Pomeranian dog before, you may want to consult an obedience trainer with your dog to learn how to correct any problems early on.

The Pomeranian, like other dogs in the toy group, has a very fragile bone structure and must be treated with great care to avoid injuring the dog. Therefore, it is essential to learn methods of discipline that do not involve physical punishment or force. Housebreaking may be particularly difficult, but modern tools of the trade like housebreaking pads, along with diligence, will lead to eventual success.

Overall, the Pomeranian makes an outstanding pet. These dogs are prized for their devotion to elderly or lonesome owners. And indeed, they provide much needed companionship to dog lovers the world over. Even in small quarters, the Pomeranian will exercise itself by running all around its territory, making it the perfect city pet.