Smooth Pom Terrier
The Smooth Pom Terrier is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Smooth Fox Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Smooth Pom Terrier. 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 diminutive spitz-type breed that presents a fox-like appearance in a compact, toy-sized package. This spirited companion typically stands between 6 and 7 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 3 and 7 pounds, with the ideal show weight falling between 4 and 6 pounds. Despite their small stature, Pomeranians possess a sturdy, well-proportioned body with medium-boned legs that are straight and parallel when viewed from any angle. The breed exhibits a square profile with the body length from shoulder to buttocks approximately equal to the height at the withers. The head of the Pomeranian features a distinctive wedge shape reminiscent of a fox, with bright, almond-shaped eyes that convey an alert, intelligent expression. The small, erect ears are set high on the head and appear to be quite close together, adding to the breed's perky appearance. The muzzle is straight and fine, though not snippy, with a well-defined stop and a small nose that matches the coat color in darker-coated dogs. The teeth meet in a scissors bite, and the expression should be animated and inquisitive, reflecting the breed's lively personality. The Pomeranian's most striking feature is its abundant double coat, which consists of a soft, dense undercoat covered by a harsh, longer outer coat that stands off from the body. The coat forms a distinctive ruff around the neck and chest, extending over the shoulders and down the front, creating a mane-like appearance. The heavily plumed tail lies flat on the back and spreads out in a fan shape. Pomeranians come in all colors and patterns, including orange, red, cream, sable, black, brown, blue, and white, with orange and red being the most common. Parti-colors and other patterns are equally acceptable within breed standards.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Pomeranians are highly intelligent and generally eager to please, making them responsive to training when approached with positive reinforcement methods. However, they can display a stubborn streak and may attempt to assert dominance if their owners do not establish clear leadership. The breed responds poorly to harsh training methods and does best with patient, consistent guidance. Pomeranians typically get along well with other pets when raised together, though their bold nature means they may not recognize size differences when interacting with larger dogs. They can be reserved with strangers initially but warm up quickly once they sense no threat to their family.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Dental disease poses particular challenges for Pomeranians due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. The breed requires diligent dental care including regular brushing and professional cleanings to prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and systemic health problems. Alopecia X, also known as black skin disease or severe hair loss syndrome, is a cosmetic condition that primarily affects male Pomeranians, causing progressive coat loss without underlying medical illness. Hypoglycemia affects Pomeranian puppies more than adults, requiring frequent small meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy also occur in the breed, making regular ophthalmic examinations advisable.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a compact, well-balanced dog that presents an elegant yet athletic appearance. Males typically stand between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulder and weigh 15 to 20 pounds, while females measure 13 to 15 inches and weigh 13 to 18 pounds. The breed exhibits a square, symmetrical build with a body length roughly equal to its height, creating harmonious proportions. The head is distinctive with a flat, moderately narrow skull that tapers gradually toward the eyes, featuring a slight stop and a muzzle that narrows to a black nose. The dark, moderately small eyes are circular and set deep, conveying an expression of fire, life, and intelligence that epitomizes the terrier spirit. The coat of the Smooth Fox Terrier is short, flat, dense, and abundant with a hard texture that provides protection during outdoor activities. The predominant color is white, covering at least half of the body, with markings of black, tan, or a combination of both colors. These markings are typically found on the head and ears, though some individuals may display patches on the body as well. A completely white coat without markings is also acceptable within breed standards. The V-shaped ears fold forward close to the cheeks, sitting well above the skull level and adding to the breed's alert expression. The Smooth Fox Terrier carries itself with considerable style and grace, displaying straight, well-boned legs and round, compact feet with tough pads. The tail is traditionally set high and carried erect, giving the dog an attentive and ready-for-action appearance. The neck is thick, muscular, and of good length, blending smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. Overall, the breed exemplifies the terrier ideal of combining substance with elegance, presenting a dog that is equally suited to the show ring and active fieldwork.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Smooth Fox Terriers are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs, readily announcing the approach of strangers with confident barking. While they may be reserved initially with unfamiliar people, they are not typically aggressive. Their interactions with other dogs require careful management, as the breed can display typical terrier tenacity and may challenge dogs of any size. These spirited companions require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking or destructiveness.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Neurological conditions affecting the breed include wobbler syndrome, which causes compression of the spinal cord in the neck region, leading to an unsteady gait and coordination problems. Deafness can occur in individuals with predominantly white coats, a condition linked to the genetics responsible for the white coloring. Responsible breeders conduct BAER testing to screen for hearing deficits. Cardiac evaluations are also recommended, as some Smooth Fox Terriers may develop heart conditions. Prospective owners should seek breeders who perform health testing on breeding stock to minimize the risk of these hereditary conditions.
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 Smooth Pom Terrier 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 Smooth Fox Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.