What breeds of dogs were crossed to get a Pomeranian Spitz? - briefly
The Pomeranian Spitz, commonly known as the Pomeranian, is a result of breeding smaller Spitz-type dogs. The primary breeds involved in its development were the German Spitz and the Swedish Lapphund.
What breeds of dogs were crossed to get a Pomeranian Spitz? - in detail
The Pomeranian Spitz, commonly known as the Pomeranian, is a breed of dog that has a rich and well-documented history. The development of this breed involved a series of deliberate crossings and selective breeding practices aimed at achieving the distinctive characteristics that define the modern Pomeranian.
The origins of the Pomeranian can be traced back to the larger Spitz-type dogs from the Pomerania region, which is now part of northern Poland and Germany. These early Pomeranians were significantly larger than their modern counterparts, often weighing up to 30 pounds. The breed's transformation into the smaller, more compact dog we know today began in the 18th century, largely due to the efforts of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.
Queen Victoria was particularly fond of these dogs and was instrumental in popularizing them. She owned a small Pomeranian named Marco, which she brought back from Italy. Her preference for smaller dogs led to a trend of breeding smaller Pomeranians. Breeders began to selectively cross the larger Pomeranians with smaller Spitz-type dogs, such as the Italian Spitz and the Volpino Italiano. These crossings helped to reduce the size of the Pomeranian while retaining its characteristic fox-like appearance and thick, double coat.
The breeding process was meticulous and involved careful selection of traits. Breeders focused on maintaining the breed's intelligence, lively temperament, and compact size. Over generations, the Pomeranian's size was gradually reduced, and its distinctive features were refined. The breed's popularity continued to grow, and by the late 19th century, the Pomeranian had become a favored companion dog among the European aristocracy.
Today, the Pomeranian is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide and is beloved for its small size, fluffy coat, and lively personality. The breed's development is a testament to the power of selective breeding and the dedication of early breeders who worked to create the charming and compact dog that has captured the hearts of many.
In summary, the Pomeranian Spitz is the result of a deliberate breeding program that involved crossing larger Spitz-type dogs with smaller Spitz breeds. The efforts of Queen Victoria and other breeders were crucial in transforming the Pomeranian into the small, fluffy companion dog that is popular today. The breed's history is a fascinating example of how selective breeding can shape the characteristics of a dog breed over time.