Poshies
The Poshies is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Shetland Sheepdog. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Poshies. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a compact toy breed that stands between eight to fourteen inches at the shoulder and weighs between three and seven pounds. Despite their diminutive size, Pomeranians are sturdy, well-balanced dogs with a cobby, compact body that gives them a solid feel when picked up. The breed is classified as a member of the Spitz family and shares the characteristic features of this group, including a wedge-shaped head, erect triangular ears, and a tail that curls over the back. The overall impression is of a proud, animated little dog with an alert expression and confident bearing that belies its small stature. The Pomeranian's double coat is perhaps its most distinctive feature, consisting of a short, dense undercoat and a long, straight, harsh-textured outer coat that stands off from the body. The profuse coat creates a fluffy, puffball-like appearance that the breed is famous for and requires regular grooming to maintain. The coat is particularly abundant around the neck and shoulders, forming a characteristic frill or ruff that frames the face. The hindquarters are also heavily coated with long feathering called culottes. The breed comes in an exceptionally wide variety of colors, more than almost any other breed, including orange, red, cream, sable, black, chocolate, blue, white, parti-color, brindle, merle, and various combinations and patterns. Orange and red are among the most popular colors. The head of the Pomeranian has a foxy appearance with a moderately short, fine muzzle and a well-defined stop. The almond-shaped eyes are dark and bright, conveying the breed's characteristic alert and intelligent expression. The small, erect ears are set high and carried upright, contributing to the breed's perpetually alert appearance. The skull is slightly rounded but should not appear domed. The teeth meet in a scissors bite, though dental issues are common. The tail is one of the breed's hallmarks, set high and lying flat on the back, covered with long, spreading hair that fans out in a distinctive plume. The legs are straight and parallel with fine bones, ending in small, compact cat-like feet.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their small size, Pomeranians have moderate to high energy levels and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They form strong bonds with their families and can become very devoted to their primary caretaker. The breed generally gets along well with other dogs and pets when properly introduced, though they may attempt to dominate much larger dogs. Pomeranians can be good with children who understand how to handle small dogs gently, but supervision is recommended due to the breed's fragile size and potential for injury.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Pomeranians can be prone to various endocrine disorders, including hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Dental problems are common in the breed due to their small jaws and crowded teeth, making regular dental care essential. Heart disease, particularly patent ductus arteriosus and other cardiac conditions, can affect the breed. Some Pomeranians may be affected by congenital portosystemic shunt, a liver condition where blood bypasses the liver. Gastrointestinal issues including inflammatory bowel disease and pancreatitis have been noted with higher frequency in the breed. Regular veterinary checkups and preventive care are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of these small companions.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a small to medium-sized herding dog that stands thirteen to sixteen inches at the shoulder and weighs between fourteen and twenty-seven pounds. The breed strongly resembles a miniature Collie and shares many physical characteristics with its larger cousin, though the Sheltie is a distinct breed with its own unique heritage from the Shetland Islands of Scotland. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a level topline and a deep chest that reaches to the elbow. The overall impression is of a nimble, agile dog built for speed and endurance. The Sheltie's double coat is one of its most striking features, consisting of a long, straight, harsh-textured outer coat and a short, dense, furry undercoat. The coat is abundant, particularly around the neck where it forms a luxurious mane and frill. The legs are well-feathered, and the tail is heavily coated with long hair. The breed comes in several color varieties, including sable and white, black white and tan (tricolor), blue merle and white, blue merle white and tan, black and white, and sable merle and white. White markings typically appear on the chest, neck, legs, and tip of the tail. The head of the Shetland Sheepdog is refined and elegant, forming a long, blunt wedge tapering from ears to nose. The almond-shaped eyes are medium-sized, dark in color for most coat varieties, and convey an intelligent, gentle, and questioning expression. Blue merle dogs may have blue or merle eyes, or one eye of each color. The ears are small, set high, and carried three-quarters erect with the tips folding forward. The muzzle is equal in length to the skull, and the nose is black. The overall expression is one of alertness combined with gentle sweetness, reflecting the breed's responsive and sensitive nature.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament One trait that prospective Sheltie owners should be aware of is the breed's tendency to bark. Shelties are vocal dogs who will alert their families to any changes in their environment, which can become problematic if not managed through training. They also retain herding instincts that may manifest as attempts to herd children or other pets by nipping at heels. Despite these tendencies, Shelties are generally wonderful family companions who get along well with children and other animals. They require regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom-related behaviors and thrive in homes where they can be active participants in family activities.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, are relatively common in Shetland Sheepdogs and can cause symptoms including weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease affecting the skin and muscles that has a hereditary component in the breed. Some Shelties may be affected by epilepsy, which typically manifests between one and five years of age. The breed can also be sensitive to certain medications, including ivermectin and related drugs, due to a mutation in the MDR1 gene that affects how drugs are processed in the body. DNA testing is available to identify dogs carrying this mutation. Regular veterinary care, health screenings, and purchasing from breeders who conduct recommended genetic testing help ensure the healthiest possible Sheltie.
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 Poshies 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 Pomeranian and Shetland Sheepdog to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.