By Sergey Uhanov (Certified Veterinarian)Dr. Sergey Uhanov Last updated: 11th January 2024

Pomsky

By

Sergey Uhanov (Certified Veterinarian) Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 11th January 2024

The Pomsky is an unconventional but trendy cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky. Combining the Husky’s charming looks with the Pomeranian’s diminutive stature, it is beloved among apartment dwellers and those looking for a playful, energetic, and cute companion. Typically, it is available in three sizes: Standard, Mini, and Toy.

Pomsky Pictures

Quick Information

Other namesHuskeranian
CoatSoft, silky, and fluffy double coat
ColorBlack, brown, merle, white, blue, red, gray, or brindle
Breed typeCrossbred
Group Working or Toy
Life expectancy13 – 15 years
SizeSmall to medium
HeightStandard – 12 – 18 inches
Mini – 10 – 14 inches
Toy – 8 – 10 inches
WeightStandard – 20 – 35 pounds
Mini – 12 – 20 pounds
Toy – 9 – 15 pounds
Litter Size3 – 7 puppies
Behavioral Characteristics Affectionate, intelligent, playful, headstrong, and confident
Good with children Yes
Barking Tendency High; they are very vocal
Climate compatibilityModerate; does well in cold weather but can overheat in warmer climates
Apartment compatibilityHigh
Do they shedThey shed around the year, with heavier shedding twice annually
Are they hypoallergenicNo
TrainabilityModerate; they can be stubborn and temperamental
How much do they cost$2,000 – $5,000
Competitive Registration Qualification/ InformationIPA, APKC
CountryUnited States

History and Origin

Unlike most breeds, Pomskies became famous before they even existed. Despite being created around 2009, the first official account of one is from 2012. BuzzFeed kickstarted this with a post in 2011, titled “The Pomeranian + Siberian husky mix: The cutest designer dog breed ever?”, featuring endearing pictures of prevailing dogs that could be a hypothetical version of the mix, including a Finnish Lapphund named Tequila. It went incredibly viral on social media platforms like Reddit, prompting animal lovers to seek out one for themselves. This increasing demand encouraged breeders to attempt a cross, but their difference in size posed a significant hurdle. Ultimately, artificial insemination was the solution, resulting in the first Pomsky litters from a male Pomeranian and a female Husky.

As a hybrid, premier clubs like the AKC do not recognize it. However, numerous organizations, such as the International Pomsky Association and the American Pomsky Kennel Club, are working towards establishing a breed standard and upholding ethical practices.

Temperament and Personality

Inheriting the best of both parents, these dogs are energetic, loyal, and clever. Particularly attached to their owner, they can usually live with other family members and pets with timely socialization. However, younger children might make them skittish, which is something households with little kids should consider before adopting. Their small to medium size makes them ideal for apartment living. As expected from their pedigree, they are highly vocal and loud, expressing themselves through barks and howls. Coupled with their loyalty and protectiveness, this makes them excellent watchdogs.

They have an active prey drive, which can cause them to chase smaller animals. Also, their intelligence and clinginess make them predisposed to separation anxiety and boredom, which can lead to unwanted behaviors like digging, chewing, and biting. Their high noise levels can also become a nuisance to neighbors, so proper training is necessary for a loving and obedient companion.

Care

Exercise

They have great stamina and require moderate to high exercise to remain fit. Daily walks and an hour or thirty minutes of vigorous activity are essential. They are fond of cold weather, so be ready to go out even during winter. Swimming is an excellent way to keep cool in summer. Mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzle games, and teaching tricks is vital for their development. Additional activities like hiking, biking, running, and canine sports like agility, nose work, and obedience training are great options.

Grooming

They shed a lot, requiring daily brushing throughout the year. Going to a professional groomer is a good idea during their seasonal shed to manage extra fur. Monthly baths and trims every three months help prevent mats and knotting. Brush their teeth daily, check their ears, and cut their nails when needed.

Health Problems

As a hybrid, it is prone to inherited issues from both lines. Common problems are hip and elbow dysplasia, GDV or bloat, degenerative disc disease, patellar luxation, heart disease, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, glaucoma, skin problems, and allergies. Buying from reputed sources and regular check-ups can prevent many of these complications.

Feeding

Their diet should accommodate the needs of a small to medium, high-energy crossbreed. Give your pet a high-quality dog food divided into two or three meals daily to avoid overfeeding. Maintain a healthy balance of minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates and provide fresh water. Always consult a veterinarian for a plan considering age, weight, and pre-existing conditions.

Training

Pomskies are highly intelligent but can be stubborn and wilful due to their pedigree. Still, with persistent and positive training, you can help them learn good habits and have a well-behaved companion.

Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to avoid nervousness around strangers and help them mingle with other pets and family members. However, their high prey drive may make them run after smaller animals, which should be discouraged. Inexperienced owners often cannot deal appropriately with their headstrong personalities, leading to them developing small dog syndrome. This lack of an alpha can lead to undesirable and unruly behavior. Thus, assertiveness, leadership, and patience are essential when raising a pup. Provide positive encouragement and never punish or scold them.

Obedience: They are quick to pick up new commands, provided they receive plenty of praise and treats. Keep training sessions short to keep them interested, preferably around ten to fifteen minutes. Puppy classes and crate training are brilliant ways to handle separation anxiety. Potty training is best done with young pups when you bring them home.

Leash: Leash training should start early, along with a recall. They are inclined to wander off, so keep them securely leashed when outside. A fenced yard is best for off-leash play.

Interesting Facts

  • Select breeders offer an even smaller version called a Teacup Pomsky. However, the breeding process is unethical and harmful for the offspring, as Teacup varieties often suffer from various illnesses and deformities.
  • Celebrities who own one of these dogs are Sharon Osbourne and Detroit Lions TE Joseph Fauria, who reportedly sustained an ankle injury in 2014 while trying to stop his Pomsky from soiling the carpet.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a Pomsky and a Husky?

Huskies are purebred, forming one of the Pomsky’s parent lines. They are significantly larger and heavier, while the other is friendlier and seeks more attention.

2. How are Pomskies different from Klee Kais?

They primarily differ in ancestry, with the Klee Kai being a purebred miniature Alaskan Husky created in the 1970s. It does not socialize as easily but is overall less stubborn.

3. How do Pomskies differ from Pomeranians?

As one of the parent breeds, Pomeranians have some differences. They are smaller and have thick, stiff coats, while Pomskies resemble Huskies with their fur and coloring. They are also particularly outgoing and do not shy away from unfamiliar people.

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