Pomeranians are lively, affectionate companions that typically enjoy a long lifespan of 12 to 16 years. While the breed is generally considered robust for its size, Pomeranians are predisposed to several health conditions that every current or prospective owner should understand. Early awareness means earlier detection — and better outcomes for your fluffy friend.

Below we cover the most common Pomeranian health problems, their warning signs, and what you can do to keep your Pom happy and healthy for years to come.

1. Luxating Patella

Luxating patella — a kneecap that slides out of its normal groove — is the number-one orthopaedic issue in Pomeranians. Veterinarians classify the condition into four grades:

• Grade 1: The kneecap can be manually displaced but returns on its own. Most dogs show no lameness.
• Grade 2: The patella pops out during movement and may not return immediately. Occasional skipping or limping is visible.
• Grade 3: The kneecap is dislocated most of the time but can still be manually repositioned. Persistent lameness is common.
• Grade 4: The patella is permanently displaced and cannot be repositioned. Surgical correction is almost always required.

Symptoms to watch for: intermittent skipping on a back leg, sudden reluctance to jump, or holding one hind leg up while walking. Grades 1 and 2 are often managed with weight control and joint supplements, while grades 3 and 4 usually call for surgery. Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs with patella evaluations to reduce the risk in puppies.

2. Dental Disease

Small breeds are notorious for dental problems, and Pomeranians are no exception. Their compact jaws lead to overcrowded teeth, which creates tight spaces where plaque and tartar build up quickly. Without intervention, this progresses to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and eventually tooth loss.

Prevention tips:

• Brush your Pom’s teeth at least three times a week — daily is even better.
• Provide dental chews approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
• Schedule professional dental cleanings with your vet at least once a year.
• Start handling your puppy’s mouth early so they accept tooth brushing as a routine.

3. Collapsed Trachea

Collapsed trachea occurs when the cartilage rings that support the windpipe weaken and flatten, partially blocking the airway. The hallmark symptom is a distinctive “honking” cough, especially during excitement, exercise, or when the dog pulls against a collar.

Management advice:

• Always use a harness instead of a collar to avoid putting pressure on the trachea.
• Keep your Pomeranian at a healthy weight — extra weight compresses the airway further.
• Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and strong fragrances.
• In severe cases, your vet may prescribe cough suppressants, bronchodilators, or recommend surgical placement of a tracheal stent.

4. Alopecia X (Black Skin Disease)

Alopecia X is a cosmetic condition seen almost exclusively in Nordic and Spitz-type breeds, including Pomeranians. The condition causes progressive, symmetrical hair loss — typically starting on the trunk — while the head and legs retain fur. Over time, the exposed skin may darken, which is why it is also called “black skin disease.”

The exact cause remains unclear, though hormonal imbalances are suspected. Alopecia X is not painful or itchy and does not affect your dog’s quality of life. Treatment options include melatonin supplements and various hormonal therapies, though results vary. Some dogs spontaneously regrow their coat.

5. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia is especially dangerous in Pomeranian puppies and very small adults. Their tiny bodies have minimal fat reserves, which makes it difficult to maintain stable blood sugar levels — particularly when they skip a meal, play too hard, or experience stress.

Warning signs: lethargy, trembling, wobbly gait, glazed eyes, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. If you notice symptoms, rub a small amount of honey or sugar water on your Pom’s gums and seek veterinary care immediately. Prevention involves feeding small, frequent meals (three to four times daily for puppies) and ensuring your dog always has access to food.

6. Eye Problems

Pomeranians’ prominent eyes make them susceptible to several conditions:

• Blocked tear ducts: Causes excessive tearing and staining around the eyes. Regular cleaning and sometimes minor flushing procedures resolve the issue.
• Cataracts: A clouding of the lens that can develop with age or due to genetics. Surgical removal is possible if vision is significantly impaired.
• Distichiasis: Extra eyelashes that grow inward, irritating the cornea. Treatment ranges from plucking to cryotherapy or minor surgery.

Regular eye exams — especially for breeding dogs — help detect problems early.

7. Heart Disease

The most common congenital heart defect in Pomeranians is patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). In this condition, a blood vessel that should close shortly after birth remains open, forcing the heart to work harder. Symptoms include exercise intolerance, coughing, and poor growth. PDA is typically detected through a heart murmur during a puppy’s first veterinary checkups. When caught early, surgical correction has an excellent success rate.

8. Prevention Tips & Health Testing

Many Pomeranian health problems can be minimised — or avoided entirely — through proactive care:

• Choose a responsible breeder who performs health screening on all breeding dogs (patella evaluation, cardiac exam, eye certification).
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity worsens joint issues, tracheal collapse, and heart disease.
• Stay up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.
• Schedule annual wellness exams — twice yearly for Poms over seven years old.
• Invest in dental care from day one.
• Use a harness to protect the trachea.

How Woefkesranch Health-Tests Our Pomeranians

At Woefkesranch, the health of our dogs is non-negotiable. Every Pomeranian in our breeding programme undergoes comprehensive health screening before being bred, including:

• Veterinary patella evaluation (OFA or equivalent)
• Cardiac examination by a certified veterinarian
• Eye certification (ECVO or equivalent)
• DNA testing for breed-relevant genetic conditions
• Regular dental check-ups and cleanings

Our puppies leave with a complete health record, a veterinary health certificate, and a health guarantee. We are always available to answer questions about your Pomeranian’s health — before and after purchase.

👉 Learn more about our Pomeranians and available puppies

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s health.