Pomston
The Pomston is a cross between the Boston Terrier and the Pomeranian. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Pomston. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a lively, highly intelligent, and compactly built dog that presents a picture of determination, strength, and activity. The breed is recognized in three weight classes: under 15 pounds, 15 to 20 pounds, and 20 to 25 pounds, with height typically ranging from 15 to 17 inches at the withers. The body is short and well-knit, with strong, neatly turned limbs and a short tail that may be straight or corkscrew but is never docked. The length of the legs must balance with the length of the body to give the Boston its distinctive square appearance. The breed must not appear spindly or coarse, with bone and muscle in proportion to enhance rather than overwhelm the dog's structure and weight. The Boston Terrier's coat is one of its most distinctive features, being short, smooth, bright, and fine in texture. The accepted colors are brindle, seal, or black, always with white markings that create the breed's signature tuxedo appearance. Required white markings include a muzzle band, a blaze between the eyes, and white on the forechest. Desired markings extend to include a white collar, white on part or whole of the forelegs and hind legs below the hocks, though dogs lacking these additional markings should not be penalized if otherwise excellent. The proportionate combination of color and white markings is given particular consideration when evaluating the breed, as these markings are fundamental to the Boston's distinctive gentlemanly appearance. The Boston Terrier's head is perhaps its most recognizable feature, being square and flat on top with a short, square muzzle proportionate to the skull. The head is free from wrinkles, with flat cheeks and an abrupt brow that creates a well-defined stop. The large, round eyes are set wide apart and square in the skull, giving the breed its characteristic alert and kind expression that is considered one of the most important characteristics of the breed. The eyes are dark in color, and their placement on the line with the cheeks when viewed from the front contributes to the Boston's expressive face. Small ears may be left natural or cropped to conform to the shape of the head, carried erectly and situated near the corners of the skull. The jaw is broad and square with short, regular teeth that meet in an even or slightly undershot bite.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed is typically excellent with children and demonstrates remarkable patience with young family members. They enjoy playing and make engaging playmates, though supervision is always recommended during interactions with very young children due to the breed's size. Boston Terriers generally get along well with other dogs in the home and tend to coexist peacefully with cats. While they may display some territorial tendencies and can be protective of their families, they are not typically aggressive dogs. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, though their occasional stubbornness may require patient, consistent training. Mental stimulation often tires them more effectively than physical exercise alone, making puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games valuable enrichment activities.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position, is an orthopedic condition that affects Boston Terriers with varying degrees of severity. Hemivertebrae, a spinal condition linked to the genes that cause the breed's naturally short, corkscrew tail, can cause spinal problems ranging from mild to severe, potentially resulting in weakness or paralysis in serious cases. Deafness, particularly in dogs with excessive white markings, occurs in the breed and may be detected through specialized hearing tests. Allergies affecting the skin are relatively common and may require ongoing management. Heat sensitivity is a practical concern due to the brachycephalic structure, requiring owners to limit outdoor activity during hot weather and provide adequate cooling. Responsible breeders screen for hereditary conditions and carefully select breeding pairs to reduce the incidence of health problems.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a compact toy breed that makes a remarkable impression despite its diminutive size, typically weighing between 3 and 7 pounds with an ideal show weight of 4 to 6 pounds. Standing approximately 8 to 11 inches at the withers, this small but sturdy dog possesses a well-balanced, cobby body that is slightly shorter from shoulder to buttocks than it is tall at the withers. The Pomeranian's overall structure conveys substance and soundness, with medium-boned legs that are straight and parallel when viewed from the front. The breed moves with a smooth, free, balanced, and vigorous gait that reflects its confident and animated personality. The Pomeranian's luxurious double coat is perhaps its most striking feature and requires considerable maintenance to keep in optimal condition. The undercoat is soft and dense, providing insulation, while the outer coat consists of long, harsh-textured guard hairs that stand away from the body. This abundant coat forms a distinctive ruff around the neck and chest that frames the fox-like face and extends over the shoulders. The heavily plumed tail is one of the breed's hallmarks, set high and lying flat on the back, further accentuating the dog's profuse coat. Pomeranians come in an extraordinary variety of colors, with all colors, patterns, and variations being acceptable according to breed standards including orange, black, white, cream, sable, chocolate, and parti-color combinations. The Pomeranian's head is well-proportioned to the body with a distinctly fox-like expression that conveys intelligence and alertness. The wedge-shaped head features a moderately short muzzle that is straight and fine, never snippy or coarse. Small, erect ears are set high on the skull and stand perfectly upright, contributing to the breed's alert and inquisitive appearance. The almond-shaped eyes are dark, bright, and medium-sized, set well into the skull with an intelligent and lively expression. The nose is typically black, though liver-colored dogs have brown pigmentation. The compact feet are small and cat-like with well-arched toes, while the teeth meet in a scissors bite. The overall impression is of a miniature but well-proportioned dog with abundant coat and confident carriage.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their small size, Pomeranians are active and playful dogs that enjoy regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are intelligent and can excel in obedience and trick training when motivated with positive reinforcement methods, though their independent nature may lead to occasional stubbornness. Pomeranians typically mature mentally faster than many toy breeds and can begin training at a young age. They generally do well in various living situations, including apartments, provided they receive adequate exercise and attention. The breed tends to bond most closely with one family member but can be affectionate with the entire household. Pomeranians can be good with children who understand how to handle small dogs gently, though supervision is always recommended due to the breed's fragile size.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Dental problems are extremely common in Pomeranians due to their small mouths, which can cause overcrowding and make teeth more susceptible to decay and periodontal disease. Regular dental care including brushing and professional cleanings is essential. Eye problems affecting the breed include cataracts, entropion where the eyelid rolls inward, and distichiasis where extra eyelashes irritate the eye surface. Open fontanels, where the soft spot on the skull fails to close completely, can occur in very small Pomeranians and makes them vulnerable to head injuries. Cryptorchidism, the failure of one or both testicles to descend, is seen in male Pomeranians and typically requires surgical intervention. Responsible breeders conduct health screenings to minimize the occurrence of genetic conditions in their breeding programs.
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 Pomston 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 Boston Terrier and Pomeranian to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.