Pomeranian Health Concerns
Some of the most common Pomeranian health concerns are:
- Collapsed trachea: weakening of the cartilage, resulting in narrowing of the windpipe. Common in toy breeds.
- Alopecia (hair loss): Also very common, and especially noticable in Poms, since their coats are on of their distinguishing features.
- Skin allergies, irritations, 'hot spots'
- Seizures
- Patellar Luxation: Common in many breeds, including the Pom. Simply stated, this is when the knee cap slips out of joint, but the surrounding ligaments
return to their normal position when the knee is flexed or extended. This sometimes results in a popping noise, though not always. This problem may require surgery, depending
on its severity.
- Broken bones: Because Poms are so small, with a delicate bone structure, they are prone to fractures. Avoid letting your Pom become overweight,
as this adds stress to the bones. Avoid letting your Pom jump up and down from very high places, since the impact may cause a fracture. Also be sure to watch
Poms when they are with small children. Without meaning to, a child may play too rough with a Pom and accidentally cause a fracture - I know from personal experience!
- Weight Issues: Because they are so small, the smallest amount of additional weight can have a big impact on a Pom. Obesity can cause unnecessary
stress on bones and joints, and can contribute to heart disease.
- Arthritis: Common to aging dogs of all kinds. Supplements such as glucosamine/chondrointin, or fish oil caps may help.
- Cataracts
General Pomeranian Care
Pomeranian Housebreaking
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