When preparing to bring a Pomeranian into your home, there are many factors to consider—especially if you have small children. How much time will be needed for grooming and general care? Will a Pomeranian be a good fit for your living space? And most importantly, will this furry companion get along with the whole family, including your kids?
Pomeranians and small children can be a match made in heaven, but in some cases, they may not mix well. It largely depends on the specifics of the individual’s situation. With the right preparation, supervision, and understanding, Pomeranians can thrive in homes with children, teaching valuable lessons in responsibility and compassion. Here are some things to think about when deciding if a Pomeranian is the right addition to your family.
Pomeranians and Small Children: The Basics
First and foremost, Pomeranians are loving, loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their human families. They love to cuddle and be part of family activities, often seeking out affection from their owners. How well a Pomeranian gets along with children depends on several factors, including how you raise the Pom, the breeder’s practices, and the temperament of both the dog and the children.
One of the key elements to consider is your Pomeranian’s upbringing. A properly socialized and positively raised Pomeranian is more likely to adapt well to children. However, a Pom that hasn’t been exposed to children or raised by an inexperienced breeder may develop more anxiety or fear around kids.
The Importance of a Responsible Breeder
When selecting a Pomeranian, it’s crucial to know your breeder and their reputation. A responsible breeder will prioritize temperament and socialization, raising puppies that can adapt to different environments and social situations, including homes with small children. Poor breeding practices, on the other hand, can lead to dogs with behavioral problems such as anxiety or aggression, making it difficult for them to coexist peacefully with kids.
Choosing a puppy from a reputable breeder gives you the chance to socialize the dog early, introducing them to your family’s lifestyle and routines from the beginning. Puppies are highly adaptable, and by raising them in a loving, child-friendly environment, you can help foster positive relationships between your Pomeranian and your children. This early exposure allows the dog and kids to grow comfortable with each other, creating a foundation for a strong bond.
The Behavior of Children Around Pomeranians
Even if your Pomeranian is well-bred and socialized, you still need to consider how your child behaves and interacts with animals. While Pomeranians may look like little toys, their small size actually makes them more fragile than larger dogs. Rough handling can result in serious injuries, so it’s important that your children understand how to be gentle and respectful with their new furry friend.
Pomeranians love to play, both indoors and outdoors, but they don’t tolerate rough play like some larger breeds. If your child tends to wrestle, run around wildly, or engage in high-energy activities, a Pomeranian may not be the best match. Rough handling can frighten a Pomeranian and lead to defensive behaviors like barking, growling, or even biting. It’s important to teach your child how to interact gently with the dog, emphasizing that Pomeranians require calm, respectful playtime.
Creating a Positive Environment for Both Pomeranians and Kids
In many cases, a household with both Pomeranians and small children can be successful with the right balance of supervision, boundaries, and mutual respect. A well-supervised environment is key to fostering a positive relationship between your dog and your children.
For example, when a child plays too roughly or gets too close to a Pomeranian’s personal space, the dog may respond with a warning bark or growl. This is an opportunity to teach both the child and the dog about boundaries. If the Pomeranian feels uncomfortable, redirecting the child’s behavior in a gentle way can help them understand that animals have feelings too.
In my own experience, my son Gio has learned to understand the signals from our Pomeranian, Niko. When Niko feels overwhelmed and lets out a little bark, Gio knows it’s time to give him space. But when Niko nudges him, Gio is always eager to play. Watching them interact so respectfully is a beautiful thing—teaching both of them the importance of communication, boundaries, and care for others.
Children who grow up with pets like Pomeranians can learn valuable lessons about responsibility, empathy, and patience. Helping to care for the dog—whether it’s feeding, grooming, or simply playing gently—teaches kids how to nurture and respect other living beings.
Supervision Is Key
It’s important to remember that, like all dogs, Pomeranians need proper supervision when interacting with children. Even the most well-behaved dog can become overwhelmed by a child’s energy, especially if the child is too young to fully understand how to handle pets.
Supervision allows you to intervene when necessary and ensure that both the dog and the child are comfortable. If your Pomeranian begins to show signs of stress—such as hiding, excessive barking, or growling—it’s a good time to give them a break and remind your child about the importance of gentle play.
Likewise, if your child seems unsure or nervous around the dog, it’s an opportunity to help them build confidence and trust with their new companion. Encouraging positive interactions, like gentle petting or calm play, will help strengthen the bond between your child and the Pomeranian over time.
Can Pomeranians and Children Be Best Friends?
Absolutely! With the right preparation, supervision, and a focus on gentle play, Pomeranians and children can grow up to be the best of friends. In fact, many families find that their Pomeranian becomes an essential part of their household, offering companionship, loyalty, and plenty of love.
Pomeranians are small but full of personality, and they thrive on attention from their human family members. When given the proper care, socialization, and understanding, they can be fantastic companions for children, teaching them about kindness, responsibility, and respect for animals.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a Pomeranian into a household with small children requires careful consideration, but it can also be a rewarding experience for both the dog and the family. With their loving personalities and playful energy, Pomeranians have the potential to be wonderful companions for kids. However, it’s important to ensure that your child understands the responsibility that comes with caring for such a delicate dog.
By choosing a well-bred, well-socialized Pomeranian and teaching your children how to interact with their new furry friend, you can create a happy, harmonious home where both Pomeranian and child thrive. Getting to know your Pomeranian is key to understanding their needs and personality, which will help you foster a strong connection between your dog and your family. Remember, supervision is crucial, and guiding your child in learning about the care and needs of their Pomeranian will build a lifelong bond between them.
So, if you’re ready to add a Pomeranian to your family, keep these tips in mind. Getting to know your Pomeranian will set you on the path to creating a loving and nurturing environment where both your new dog and your kids will flourish together.
Check out my book, A Pommy Mommy’s Guide… to Being Owned by a Pomeranian, for more tips on raising Pomeranians.