Thursday, May 15, 2008

Health Considerations of Pomeranian Dog




Pomeranians have a life expectancy of from 12 to 16 years and have a number of common health problems. These health disorders include: congenital heart defects (patent ductus arteriosus); patellar luxation; eye disorders (progressive retinal atrophy and entropion); tracheal collapse; and low blood sugar in very small Poms. Explanations of many of these diseases can be found in our article "Hereditary Diseases in Dogs”. Watch out for early dental problems which are common in this breed. You should always neuter non-breeding males no later than 6 months of age to prevent leg-lifting problems. Because Pomeranians are expensive, there are a number of unscrupulous breeders selling puppies that are too big for the standard or ones that have a number of genetic problems. Always buy from a reputable breeder and always ask to see the parent’s OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patellar luxation screening results as well as the recent CERF (Canine Eye Registry) results for eye diseases.

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