Pomeranian Dog Breed Health - A Guide for Dog Owners

Is your Pomeranian showing subtle signs of discomfort or strange coughing? It’s easy to feel worried when your beloved pom won’t settle or shows an unexplained health problem.
Many pet parents panic, fearing that a minor symptom could be a common health issue with serious repercussions. This uncertainty can leave you feeling powerless, especially if you’re not sure where to turn.
Today, we’ll uncover the most frequent Pomeranian health issues, share insights on symptoms like tracheal collapse, and empower you to give your Pomeranian the best care possible for a longer, happier life.

Key takeaways

• Pomeranians are small and prone to issues like a luxating patella

• Common health problems in Pomeranians can include tracheal collapse, black skin disease, and eye problems

• A quality healthy diet is essential to help your dog thrive

• Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the windpipe

• Regular veterinary check-ups can spot health concerns before they become severe cases

• Working with a responsible breeder and following vet advice can reduce health conditions

Pomeranians might be in the toy dog breeds category, but they have a mighty spirit.

Their double coat and foxy expression make them look like tiny lions—though owners of this dog breed know they’re full of playful, loving energy.

Because Pomeranians are lively and bold, you might forget they can be susceptible to certain health conditions.

However, these can be managed with knowledge, early intervention, and a supportive vet team.

For more Pomeranian insights, browse our Pomeranian breed guide, which offers further breed information and tips on how to ensure your Pomeranian stays at its best.

Understanding how common issues develop will help you catch early warning signs, so your Pomeranian can receive prompt veterinary care.

Luxating patella in Pomeranians

Luxating patella (or patellar luxation) is one of the most common joint health problems in Pomeranians.

In simple terms, the kneecap shifts out of place, causing discomfort. Because these are small breed dogs, their cartilage might not be as robust as that of a much larger dog.

Pomeranians may also develop stiffness or limping over time if joint issues go unchecked.

Some owners may notice their older Pomeranian will start “skipping” on walks. This could be a sign of a luxating patella—visit your vet for a proper diagnosis, however gentle exercises and rest may help initially.

Managing kneecap shifts

• A dog doesn’t always need an operation. However, surgical treatment might help in severe cases.

• Keep your dog’s weight in a healthy range to lessen stress on the joints.

• Provide soft surfaces for rest to reduce strain on vulnerable knees.

For more tips on dog-friendly living spaces, you might find related articles on comfortable dog bedding and household adjustments, like our piece on how to bathe a puppy, which also covers safe bathroom tips.

Collapsed trachea in a pom

Tracheal collapse occurs when the rings of cartilage in your Pomeranian’s windpipe weaken, making it harder for your dog to breathe.

You might notice a “goose honk” cough, often triggered by excitement or heat.

Reverse sneezing can sometimes accompany it, too.

Pomeranians don’t handle collar pressure well, as it may worsen a collapsed trachea.

One way to prevent extra stress is to always use a harness—particularly if your little fluffball pulls on the lead.

How to help your pom’s breathing

• Talk to your vet about safe exercise routines and potential medication.

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce strain on the windpipe.

• Limit excitement or triggers like excessive barking—use gentle training if necessary.

If nighttime barking disrupts calm, see our content on dog barking at night for advice on addressing noisy behaviour in a supportive way.

Black skin disease and alopecia X

A common health issue in Poms is black skin disease, sometimes known as alopecia X.

This skin disease leads to progressive hair loss, particularly around the trunk and hindquarters.

It’s not life-threatening but it can affect your Pom’s comfort and self-confidence (yes, they often know when they look different!).

Coat loss in Poms also ties to improper grooming or a neglected double coat. If you suspect anything beyond standard shedding, consult a vet for early intervention.

Practical approach to hair loss

• Stick to a gentle brushing routine to keep the coat healthy.

• Look for medicated shampoos that soothe irritated skin.

• Keep an eye on hormonal imbalances, as they can cause disease in Pomeranians.

Cataract or eye conditions are common in Pomeranians, often appearing in senior dogs and is normally due to genetics.

If your dog may show signs of cloudy eyes or bump into furniture, they could be dealing with partial or fully developed cataract.

Dogs with cataracts may benefit from timely veterinary assessment. Surgical treatment can sometimes restore vision if done early.

Ensure you have a safe home environment—no sharp corners that can cause injuries.

Considering how Pomeranians dash around, it’s best to keep your living spaces hazard-free.

A heart murmur is a tell-tale sign of potential heart problems. While not always serious, it can signal underlying health concerns.

Regular vet check-ups help detect changes early, especially in purebred dogs like the Pomeranian dog.

Cushing’s disease is another condition that might appear in older Poms, leading to symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, or a thinning coat.

Monitoring your adult dogs closely for any changes will allow you to catch problems at an early stage.

• Persistent coughing or choking noises could indicate collapsed trachea.

• A limp or skipping gait might show luxating patella.

• Skin disease presents as red, flaky patches or sudden hair loss.

• Frequent blinking or cloudiness on the surface of the eye could signal eye problems.

• Noticeable increase in thirst, hunger, or a pot-bellied appearance can be early signs of Cushing's disease.

Because Pomeranians are a healthy breed overall when cared for properly, a new or lasting symptom is your prompt to contact a vet or request further health information from professional sources.

A huge part of preventing health problems in Pomeranians lies in good breeding.
Pomeranian breeders who follow kennel club standards and health screenings can help avoid inherited issues.

Before you commit to bringing home a Pomeranian puppy, ask about parental health checks for tracheal collapse, patellar luxation, and more.

Pomeranians may also come from shelters or rescue groups. Don’t let that deter you—just gather as much background as you can.
Being aware of common health problems in Pomeranians guides you to provide the best care from day one.

For an overview of safe, supportive dog-parenting approaches, see our puppy insurance article, which covers the importance of being financially prepared for potential vet bills.

We’re all about helping your Pomeranian stay healthy and happy—and that includes coverage for those inevitable vet visits.

Waggel Pet Insurance can help you handle the cost of diagnosing and treating Pomeranian health issues, from mild irritations to major surgeries.

With flexible plans and friendly support, we make it easier for you to focus on love and care, rather than worrying about finances.

Pomeranians are adorable, lively, and loyal, but like any toy dog breed, they can face distinct health concerns.

From cataracts and collapsed trachea to luxating patella and black skin disease, the health issue spectrum can be daunting.

Fortunately, staying informed and forming a great relationship with your vet lets you catch common health issues early.

In the end, a Pomeranian’s well-being boils down to knowledge, prevention, and a nurturing environment.

Whether you’re caring for a puppy or an older Pomeranian, keep up with regular check-ups, a quality healthy diet, and easy exercise routines.

By doing so, you can ensure your beloved Pom leads the energetic, tail-wagging life they truly deserve.