Pomeranian Grooming: Fluffy Coat Care and Trims
Pomeranians have the most extravagant coat of any toy breed. It is a small dog in a huge fluffy coat, and keeping the coat healthy takes regular care. See also the Pomeranian breed profile.
The coat
A Pom has a dense, soft, woolly undercoat and a long, straight, harsh outer coat. The mane around the neck and the plume on the tail are signature features. Poms shed regularly and may blow coat once or twice a year. See double-coat grooming.
Brushing
- Two to three times a week with a pin brush and a comb, and daily in shedding.
- Work in layers, from the skin out, using a light conditioning mist.
- Pay attention to behind the ears, the britches and the underside.
See how to brush a dog properly and pin brush vs bristle brush for dogs.
Bathing and drying
Bathe every three to four weeks. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, rinse thoroughly and dry completely while brushing the coat up and away from the body with a dryer on low. See how to bathe a dog at home and how to dry a dog after a bath.
Trims instead of shaving
Tidy the feet, rear end and any overgrown hair. Keep the body coat intact. Shaving a Pom can lead to patchy, uneven regrowth, and in some cases a condition sometimes called coat funk. See should you shave a double-coated dog. Some owners choose a short, even trim. Discuss the risks with your groomer and vet.
Hair loss
If your Pom loses patches of hair, see your vet. Causes can include hormonal conditions, skin disease and parasites. The breed is associated with a condition often called alopecia X, so a vet check matters. See dog skin allergies.
Teeth
Poms are prone to dental disease. Brush daily and see your vet for regular dental care. See how to brush a dog's teeth.
Eyes and face
Wipe tear stains and keep hair out of the eyes. See how to remove tear stains from dogs and how to trim the hair around a dog's eyes.
Nails and paws
Trim nails and the hair between the pads. See how to trim dog nails safely and how to trim hair between dog paw pads.
Sanitary trim
Keep the rear hair neat. See how to do a sanitary trim.
Small dog safety
Handle gently. Poms are fragile and can be injured by falls from tables or arms. Groom on a non-slip surface at a safe height.
A weekly Pom routine
- Two or three times a week: brush in layers and comb the britches.
- Weekly: wipe the face, check ears and trim stray hair around the feet.
- Every three to four weeks: bath and blow-dry.
- Daily: brush teeth if possible.
Coat changes
Pomeranian puppies go through an awkward phase at four to eight months, when the puppy coat falls out and the adult coat comes in. They can look scruffy and patchy. Brush daily, keep the coat clean and resist the urge to shave. The adult coat usually settles after a few months.
The takeaway
Brush regularly, bathe and dry well and keep trims light. A healthy Pom coat is a wonderful thing.
Frequently asked questions
Do Pomeranians shed?
Yes, constantly, with heavy shedding once or twice a year.
Can I shave a Pomeranian?
Not recommended, since it can damage the coat.
How often should I brush?
Two to three times a week, and daily during shedding.
Why did my Pom go bald?
Coat loss can be due to coat blow, hormonal or skin conditions. See your vet.