Aussie Pom
Hybrid Breed Description
The Aussie Pom is a cross between the Australian Shepherd and the Pomeranian. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing an Aussie Pom. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized herding breed that stands between eighteen and twenty-three inches tall at the shoulder, with males typically measuring twenty to twenty-three inches and females eighteen to twenty-one inches. Males generally weigh between fifty and sixty-five pounds, while females weigh forty to fifty-five pounds. This athletic breed possesses a solid build with well-developed muscles, moderate bone structure, and a low center of gravity that contributes to exceptional balance and agility. The body is firm and muscular with a level topline, deep chest with well-sprung ribs, and strong loin. These proportions create a well-balanced appearance that reflects both strength and stamina, essential qualities for a working herding dog. The Australian Shepherd features a striking double coat of medium length with a weather-resistant texture that can be straight to slightly wavy. The dense undercoat varies in quantity depending on climate, while the coarse outer coat stands off from the body. Hair is short and smooth on the head and front of the forelegs, with moderate feathering on the backs of the legs and breeches. A distinctive moderate mane frames the neck, extending over the shoulders and chest, with this feature being more pronounced in males than females. The breed is renowned for its unique and variable coat patterns and colorations, with the standard recognizing blue merle, red merle, solid black, and solid red, all with or without white markings and tan points. The eyes are particularly expressive and can be brown, blue, amber, or any variation or combination thereof, including flecks and marbling. Small triangular ears are set high on the head and break forward at full attention. Distinctive physical features include almond-shaped eyes that convey attentiveness and intelligence, a moderately long muzzle equal to or slightly shorter than the back skull, and a wedge-shaped head that maintains proper proportions. Many Australian Shepherds possess naturally bobbed tails, though tail length can vary. The overall appearance presents a picture of a working dog built for endurance and versatility, capable of handling varied terrain and weather conditions while maintaining the agility needed for herding livestock.
Key Characteristics
The Australian Shepherd is highly intelligent and energetic, ranking among the most intelligent dog breeds with exceptional problem-solving abilities and quick learning capacity. These dogs were developed as working herders and retain strong instincts for controlling livestock, which can manifest in attempts to herd children, other pets, or even vehicles if not properly managed. Their intelligence requires consistent mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and activities that challenge their minds, as boredom can lead to destructive behaviors. Aussies are extremely responsive to training and excel in obedience, agility, herding trials, and various dog sports, making them highly versatile working companions. The breed displays a loyal and affectionate nature toward family members, thriving on human companionship and forming deep bonds with their owners. Often described as velcro dogs, they prefer to stay close to their favorite people and dislike being left alone for extended periods. While friendly with familiar individuals, Australian Shepherds tend to be reserved and cautious around strangers, displaying natural watchdog instincts that make them protective of their family and territory. This protective nature requires proper socialization from puppyhood to ensure they develop appropriate responses to new people and situations. Some Aussies may never fully accept strangers despite extensive socialization. Australian Shepherds possess boundless energy and require substantial daily exercise, typically needing at least sixty minutes of vigorous activity to remain satisfied and well-behaved. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they can become destructive, developing unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, digging, and chewing. These dogs are happiest when given a job to do, whether that involves actual herding work, competitive sports, or structured activities that engage both their bodies and minds. Their sensitive nature responds best to positive reinforcement training methods, and they can become anxious or shy if treated harshly. The breed's high energy levels, combined with their intelligence and strong work ethic, make them excellent companions for active individuals and families who can provide the time, attention, and structured activities these remarkable dogs require.
Australian Shepherds are generally healthy dogs with a life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years, though they are predisposed to several hereditary conditions that potential owners should understand. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are significant orthopedic concerns in the breed, occurring when the joints develop abnormally and leading to arthritis, pain, and lameness. Hip dysplasia results when the thigh bone doesn't fit properly into the hip socket, causing cartilage deterioration over time. Elbow dysplasia affects the front legs and may be underrecognized despite being relatively common. Both conditions can range from mild to severe, with serious cases sometimes requiring surgical intervention. Responsible breeders screen their dogs using certifications from organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Eye problems represent another major health concern for Australian Shepherds. Hereditary cataracts are the most common eye disease in the breed, appearing as early as one year of age and potentially progressing to cause blindness if left untreated. Collie Eye Anomaly, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and persistent pupillary membranes can also occur. Regular examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists are essential for early detection and management. The MDR1 gene mutation affects approximately fifty percent of Australian Shepherds, making them dangerously sensitive to certain medications including ivermectin and other common veterinary drugs. A simple DNA test can identify affected dogs, and owners must ensure all veterinarians are aware of this potentially life-threatening condition. Additional health concerns include epilepsy, which typically manifests between three and seven years of age and is thought to be inherited, though the exact cause remains unknown. Autoimmune thyroiditis is one of the most commonly reported diseases in the breed, fortunately treatable with inexpensive medication when properly diagnosed. Some Australian Shepherds may experience various cancers including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma. Natural bobtail breeding carries risks of serious spinal defects, and two naturally bobbed dogs should never be bred together. Skin allergies, anxiety issues, and dental problems can also affect the breed. Despite these potential health challenges, many Australian Shepherds live long, healthy lives with proper veterinary care, genetic health screening, appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive health measures throughout their lifespan.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a true toy breed dog, weighing between three and seven pounds with an ideal show weight of four to six pounds. These diminutive dogs stand eight to eleven inches tall at the withers, with males typically measuring around eleven inches and females around ten inches. Despite their tiny size, Pomeranians possess a sturdy, compact body with a fairly square shape, where the length from prosternum to point of buttocks equals the height at the withers. The breed features well-developed muscles and moderate bone structure, creating a surprisingly robust frame for such a small dog. The body is firm with a short, straight back and level topline, deep chest, and well-sprung ribs that contribute to their overall balanced proportions. The Pomeranian's most distinctive feature is its luxurious double coat that stands off from the body, creating a characteristic fluffy appearance reminiscent of a small lion or fox. The coat consists of a short, dense, soft undercoat and longer, harsh-textured guard hairs forming the outer coat. A thick ruff around the neck frames the fox-like face, extending over the shoulders and chest to create a dramatic mane. The heavily plumed tail, set high and lying flat on the back, is one of the breed's most recognizable features. Coat colors are remarkably varied, including red, orange, cream, sable, black, brown, blue, and white, with some Pomeranians displaying multiple colors or patterns such as parti-color, brindle, or merle. The Pomeranian's head features a wedge shape with a somewhat rounded skull, broad flat forehead with slight furrow, and moderate stop. The muzzle is relatively short, measuring approximately one-third the length of the skull, and tapers slightly to a rounded tip without appearing heavy or snipy. Small, almond-shaped dark eyes convey an expression of keen intelligence and curiosity. The small triangular ears are set high on the head and carried erect, contributing to the alert expression. The nose is typically black or matches the coat color. Legs are straight with moderate oval bone, round cat-like feet that turn neither in nor out, and strong pasterns. This combination of compact body, profuse coat, plumed tail, and alert expression creates the Pomeranian's unmistakable appearance that has captivated dog enthusiasts for centuries.
Key Characteristics
The Pomeranian possesses a bold and confident temperament that far exceeds expectations for their diminutive size, often behaving as though unaware they weigh merely a few pounds. These intelligent dogs rank among the smartest toy breeds, demonstrating quick learning ability and eagerness to master new tricks and commands. Their high intelligence requires consistent mental stimulation through training exercises, puzzle toys, and interactive games to prevent boredom and maintain good behavior. Pomeranians are naturally inquisitive and alert, constantly monitoring their environment and ready to investigate any new stimulus or activity occurring around them. The breed forms deep, devoted attachments to their human family members, thriving on companionship and preferring to remain close to their owners throughout the day. Often described as lap dogs, they seek physical closeness and enjoy cuddling, though they also maintain an independent streak and won't necessarily sit still for extended periods. Pomeranians typically bond most strongly with one particular person in the household, though they show affection to all family members. They can be excellent watchdogs due to their alert nature and tendency to bark when strangers approach or unfamiliar sounds occur, though this vocalization requires proper training to prevent excessive barking. Despite their small stature, Pomeranians display remarkable courage and will protect their family fearlessly when they perceive threats. This protective instinct, combined with their strong-willed nature, means they require early socialization and consistent training to develop appropriate responses to people, animals, and situations. While generally friendly and sociable when properly socialized, some Pomeranians can be reserved or cautious with strangers. The breed is energetic and playful, enjoying daily walks and active playtime, though their exercise needs can be met in relatively small spaces. They are sensitive dogs that respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, becoming anxious or defensive if treated harshly. Pomeranians possess a unique personality that combines confidence, loyalty, intelligence, and spirited energy, making them delightful companions for owners who appreciate and can manage their strong character and need for attention.
Pomeranians typically enjoy a relatively long lifespan of twelve to sixteen years, though they are predisposed to several health conditions that owners should monitor throughout the dog's life. Patellar luxation, or slipping kneecaps, represents the most common health problem in the breed, occurring when the kneecap moves out of its normal position. This condition ranges from mild cases requiring no treatment to severe cases necessitating surgical correction. The condition causes intermittent limping or hopping, and affected dogs should avoid jumping from heights or engaging in overly strenuous activities. Maintaining appropriate weight and providing joint supplements can help manage this condition. Tracheal collapse is another significant concern in Pomeranians, occurring when the cartilage rings supporting the windpipe weaken or form incorrectly, causing the trachea to flatten and narrow. This condition produces characteristic symptoms including a honking cough, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance. Most cases are managed medically with cough suppressants and anti-inflammatories, though severe cases may require surgical intervention. Using a harness instead of a collar helps prevent pressure on the delicate trachea. Dental disease affects Pomeranians more severely than many breeds due to their small jaws causing tooth crowding, making daily teeth brushing and regular professional cleanings essential for preventing painful infections. Hypothyroidism is very common in Pomeranians, occurring when the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormone levels, leading to symptoms including weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and hair loss. The condition is manageable with daily medication and regular monitoring. Alopecia X, also called Black Skin Disease or Severe Hair Loss Syndrome, causes progressive coat loss with the exact cause remaining unclear, though genetics, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying conditions may contribute. Various eye problems can affect Pomeranians including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and entropion. Heart conditions such as patent ductus arteriosus and congestive heart failure occur with some frequency. Hypoglycemia poses particular risk for very small or young Pomeranians, requiring careful monitoring and appropriate feeding schedules. Additional concerns include seizures, allergies, and cryptorchidism in males. Despite these potential health issues, many Pomeranians live healthy lives when provided with proper veterinary care, appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, dental care, and preventive health screening throughout their lifespan.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Aussie Pom may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Australian Shepherd and Pomeranian to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.