At a glance
- Pomeranians typically live 10-16 years, with many healthy dogs reaching the upper end of this range
- Trauma from falls and accidents is the leading cause of death in this breed due to their small, fragile size
- Quality breeding that screens for genetic conditions like patellar luxation and tracheal collapse significantly impacts lifespan
- Maintaining proper weight through diet and exercise prevents many obesity-related health problems that shorten life
Many Pomeranian owners wonder how long they'll have with their beloved companion. The good news is that these small dogs are among the longer-lived breeds, with lifespans ranging from 10 to 16 years. Like most toy breeds, Poms live about 1.5 times longer than their larger canine counterparts, giving you many years to enjoy their spirited personality and loyal companionship.
Understanding what influences your dog's lifespan can help you make informed decisions that potentially add healthy years to their life. From choosing the right breeder to daily care decisions, several factors play crucial roles in determining how long your Pom will live.
The genetics factor: why breeding quality matters
Your Pomeranian's genetic foundation sets the stage for their entire life. Dogs from reputable breeders who perform strict health screenings typically live longer, healthier lives than those from puppy mills or backyard breeders. This isn't just about papers and pedigrees, it's about reducing the risk of inherited conditions that can significantly shorten lifespan.
Common genetic conditions in Pomeranians include patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), tracheal collapse, hypothyroidism, and inflammatory bowel disease. When breeders test for these conditions and make informed breeding decisions, they dramatically reduce the likelihood of these problems appearing in puppies.
Be particularly cautious of "teacup" or miniature Poms bred to be smaller than healthy breed standards. These dogs often have weaker bone density and compromised immune systems, leading to shorter lifespans and more health complications throughout their lives.
Nutrition: fueling a long, healthy life
What you feed your Pom directly impacts their longevity. A complete, balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals supports everything from immune function to joint health. High-quality commercial diets formulated specifically for small breeds work well for most dogs.
Research consistently shows that overfeeding shortens lifespan by contributing to obesity-related diseases. Your Pom's small size means even a pound or two of extra weight puts significant strain on their heart, joints, and other organs. Quality dog food for small breeds typically costs $40-70 per month, but this investment pays dividends in reduced veterinary bills and extended lifespan.
Popular brands that work well for many Pomeranians include Royal Canin Small Breed, Hill's Science Diet Small Paws, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best option based on your dog's specific needs, age, and any health conditions.
Exercise and weight management

Regular, moderate exercise helps maintain healthy weight and muscle tone while reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases. Pomeranians are naturally active and playful, but their exercise needs are quite manageable. A couple of short walks daily, combined with indoor play, typically meets their physical requirements.
However, avoid excessive high-impact activities that could worsen joint problems like patellar luxation. Jumping from furniture, long runs on hard surfaces, or rough play with much larger dogs can cause injuries that affect quality of life and longevity.
Weight management becomes increasingly important as your dog ages. Many Poms become less active in their senior years, making it easy for weight to creep up gradually. Regular weigh-ins and adjusting food portions accordingly helps maintain optimal body condition throughout their life.
Creating a safe environment

Trauma is the leading cause of death in Pomeranians, largely due to their small size and fragile bone structure. Falls from furniture, being stepped on, or injuries from larger animals can be fatal or cause lasting damage that shortens lifespan.
Creating a safe indoor environment means thinking from your Pom's perspective. Provide ramps or steps to help them safely reach favourite spots like beds or sofas. Supervise interactions with children and larger pets. Be especially careful during activities like cooking or cleaning when you might not notice a small dog underfoot.
Outdoor safety is equally important. Use a harness instead of a collar to protect their delicate trachea from collapse. Keep them on lead or in securely fenced areas, as their bold personality often exceeds their physical capabilities when facing larger dogs or potential dangers.
Health monitoring and veterinary care
Early detection and treatment of health problems can add years to your Pomeranian's life. Schedule annual veterinary visits for younger dogs and biannual check-ups for seniors over seven years old. These visits typically cost $50-150 each but can catch problems before they become serious.
Watch for signs of common Pom health issues. Limping or skipping steps might indicate patellar luxation. Persistent coughing, especially a honking sound, could signal tracheal collapse. Sudden weight gain, lethargy, or hair loss might suggest hypothyroidism. Bad breath and difficulty eating often point to dental disease, which is particularly common in small breeds.
Consider health insurance, which ranges from $25-60 per month for Pomeranians. Given their predisposition to certain conditions requiring ongoing treatment, insurance can make quality veterinary care more affordable throughout their life.
Daily care that makes a difference
Several daily and weekly care practices contribute to longevity. Regular grooming prevents skin infections and matting that can cause discomfort and secondary health issues. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks costs around $40-70 per session but maintains coat and skin health.
Dental care deserves special attention, as dental disease affects most small dogs by middle age. Daily brushing or dental chews help prevent the tooth loss and infections that can impact overall health and quality of life.
For older Poms, consider joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, which may help maintain mobility and comfort. While not proven to extend life directly, maintaining mobility and reducing pain certainly improves quality of life in senior years.
The senior years: maximising comfort and health
As your Pom enters their senior years, typically around 8-10 years old, their needs change. They may require more frequent veterinary monitoring, dietary adjustments, and modifications to their environment. Orthopedic beds can ease joint discomfort, while ramps eliminate the need for jumping.
Many Pomeranians remain active and alert well into their teens with proper care. The key is adapting their routine to match their changing capabilities while maintaining the mental stimulation and gentle exercise that keeps them engaged with life.
Regular monitoring becomes even more crucial during these years. Changes in appetite, bathroom habits, or activity levels warrant prompt veterinary attention. Sometimes the reasons are medical, sometimes simply age-related, but early intervention often makes treatment more successful and less expensive.
With thoughtful care, attention to their specific health needs, and a safe, loving environment, many Pomeranians live happy, healthy lives well into their mid-teens. The investment in quality nutrition, regular veterinary care, and daily attention to their wellbeing pays off in extra years of companionship with your spirited little friend.