5 Common Shetland Sheepdogs Health Concerns
5 Common Pomeranians Health Concerns
Looking for a compact canine with a larger than life personality? The puffy Pomeranian might be for you. These distinct dogs descended from larger spitz-type sled dogs, though today they weigh just under 10 pounds. Pomeranians are surprisingly great watchdogs with their intelligence, boldness, and alert disposition.
If you’re ready to bring one of these fluffy friends into your life, it’s important to have a firm understanding of the breed’s health history. That way, you can be a prepared pooch parent, ready to support your dog throughout any stage of life. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Pomeranian health concerns to expand your understanding.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar in dogs is more common in smaller breeds like Pomeranians. When a dog’s blood sugar is too low, his brain and organ function can be negatively affected. You may notice your dog acting lethargic, having difficulty carrying out everyday activities, experiencing an irregular heartbeat, or increased thirst or urination. These symptoms should be addressed with the help of your veterinarian as soon as they’re identified.
In order to treat hypoglycemia, your veterinarian will help you restore your dog’s proper glucose levels. This can include adjusting the diet, adding supplements, and closely monitoring your pup’s nutrition to ensure that he’s up to speed.
Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal collapse in dogs occurs when the cartilage rings in your dog’s windpipe collapse. This serious condition can make it difficult for your dog to breathe and produce a harsh, dry cough. Smaller dogs are more likely to experience this condition since their systems are more delicate. While this condition is not always preventable, it’s important that your Pomeranian is walked using a harness rather than a martingale collar, as a collar can put too much strain on the neck area. This condition can only be corrected through surgical intervention.
Luxating Patella
A luxating patella is a condition characterized by the misalignment of your dog’s kneecap. You may notice your dog struggling to put weight on one or legs while carrying out his everyday activities. Unfortunately, many toy breeds like the Pomeranian may have a genetic predisposition to developing this condition.
Many dogs are able to tolerate this condition without issue with the help of joint supplements, pain medication, and/or physical therapy recommended by your veterinarian. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the issue.
Cataracts
Cataracts in dogs develop when a portion of the lens in the eye clouds, obstructing vision. This clouding of the lens blocks light from the retina, eventually causing blindness. Cataracts are largely hereditary though they can be caused by other conditions like diabetes. This condition can occur slowly or develop almost overnight, which speaks to the importance of regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Surgery is the only way to fully treat this condition, though some dogs carry out fulfilling lives with cataracts along with anti-inflammatory medication.
Severe Hair Loss Syndrome
Severe hair loss syndrome or black skin disease in Pomeranians is fairly rare but more common in male Pomeranians. Once the puppy coat sheds, the hair doesn’t grow back. The syndrome occurs later in life and is largely genetic so it’s worth mentioning to your Pomeranian breeder.
Despite the name, dogs with this condition won’t always have black skin. The skin could stay pink or turn black only when exposed to sunlight. While this condition can’t always be treated, your veterinarian may recommend certain supplements to support coat or adrenal gland function.
Like any other dog, Pomeranians are subject to their own set of health concerns. However, these hearty little dogs are generally healthy, hearty little dogs that can live up to 16 years old. These compact companions are so worth our love and care with their one-of-a-kind personalities paired with a show-stopping coat.
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