One of the many adorable toy breeds is the Pomeranian. These small dogs are members of the Spitz group. The ancestors of the Pomeranian were sled dogs originating in and around Iceland. In the late 1800s some of these larger, hardier sled dogs were bred down to toy size. Pomeranians, which were bred down from the German Spitz, are one example.

Pomeranian puppies have either doll-like or fox-like faces. They have a double coat of thick, full fur. The fur may be one color such as sable or white, or multi-colored (parti-colored). A Pomeranian puppy will only grow to an adult size of eight to eleven inches in height and three to seven pounds in weight. The inverted-triangle shaped head and pointed ears contribute to the foxy look of this breed.

A Pomeranian puppy requires discipline from an early age due to the fact that this breed is willful and demanding by nature. Pomeranians are also known to be highly energetic, affectionate, smart and curious. Their double coat of fur requires twice weekly brushing but infrequent bathing as this can wash away essential oils. Pomeranians are prone to tooth loss so their teeth should be brushed with a baby toothbrush once a week.

The demanding, high maintenance personality inherent in the Pomeranian requires that owners provide Pomeranian puppies with discipline early on. Buyers of Pomeranian puppies should only buy from reputable breeders who maintain their own kennels and provide stimulation, socialization and training to the puppies they sell. It is never appropriate to buy any dog from a pet store. Pet stores receive shipments of animals just like any other merchandise and puppies do not receive adequate care and attention like they do when whelped and raised by a breeder.

Buyers of Pomeranian puppies should do their research on the breed before making a purchase. They should ask the breeder ample questions and the breeder should be knowledgeable in all areas from breed standard and grooming, to discipline and training, to whelping and healthcare. A good breeder will provide documentation of a Pomeranian puppy's health and pedigree. The pedigree will include the names of the puppy' sire (father) and dam (mother). Most will have champion names in their history. A buyer may want to ask advice on puppy names for their Pomeranian.

Naming a Pomeranian puppy can be a fun and thought-provoking task, particularly if an owner plans to register the puppy for competition. Most show dogs have a show name and an actual given name. Show names may be representative of many things. Sometimes they seem to advertise a business, for example "Kalo's Rock and Music City". Other names seem meant to impress, for example "Lord Snowden Lorenzo". Actual given names can range from the popular- Max, Sadie and Buddy to the eccentric Beelzebub, Abracadabra and Firenze.

The Pomeranian's appearance and temperament should be taken into consideration when naming. An owner may want to paradoxically choose a name opposite the dog's traits. Pomeranians are members of the toy group so names like Goliath, Bear or Machine may be a nice contrast. They are known for erratic barking, being high-maintenance and for their energy so names like Sleepy and Whisper may also be good options. The most important thing to remember when naming a Pomeranian puppy is that he or she will most likely have a long life, so the owner should be prepared to live with the dog and the dog's name for many years to come.