The Pomsky – A Pomeranian and Siberian Husky Mixture

Pomsky picture

Cute and playful, the Pomsky (also called a Pomeranian Husky) hasn’t been around very long so traits can vary in individuals. The Pomsky is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Siberian Husky. These dogs are usually small to medium and size and love to be the center of attention.

The Parent Breeds

Unlike many hybrid or designer dogs, the Pomsky doesn’t have a Poodle parent. The parents are a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky – two breeds which, historically, come from cold regions. Although the Pomeranian today is a tiny, fluffy toy breed, in previous centuries they were a larger spitz breed that once pulled sleds. Queen Victoria was devoted to Poms and bred them down to a toy in size. Siberian Huskies, of course, are working dogs and still known as outstanding sled dogs. Siberians make wonderful companions.

Both Pomeranians and Siberians are extremely popular breeds today. Pomeranians weigh 3-7 pounds for show; and stand 6-7 inches tall. Siberian Huskies weigh 35-60 pounds; and stand 20 to 23.5 inches tall. Both breeds tend to live into their teen years.

Some Pomskies can have blue eyes, like Siberian Huskies.

Some websites claim that the Pomsky can only be produced through artificial insemination because of the difference in size between the Pomeranian and the Siberian Husky.

There are no definite requirements about the appearance for the Pomsky at this time since these dogs have only been around for a few years. There are two organizations looking out for Pomskies: the Pomsky Club of America; and the International Pomsky Association. You can find breeder information on those sites.

Temperament

Temperament is always part nature and part nurture. You can expect some of the Pomsky’s temperament to come from his parents’ genetic contribution and some to come from the way he is raised. The temperament of your dog’s mother will also carry a lot of influence she will have the most influence on him for the first few weeks of his life.

Both Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies are outgoing. Poms are known for being inquisitive, bold, and lively. Siberians are mischievous and loyal. You can expect a Pomsky puppy to have a combination of these personality traits.

Don’t underestimate the mischievous part of your Pomsky’s nature. Siberian Husky owners have many colorful stories to tell about their dogs’ antics. You can expect Pomskies to inherit much of this same tendency to get into trouble just for fun. Pomskies have a reputation for liking attention so make sure you give them plenty of it!

As with all puppies and dogs, you should provide early socialization and basic training for your Pomsky. Introduce him to new people, places, and things from an early age so he won’t be fearful later. Encourage him to get used to spending time alone at home. Teach him to spend short periods of time in an indoor kennel/crate so you can safely crate him when it’s necessary without him experiencing separation anxiety. If your Pomsky pup learns about these things while he’s young, he will be a well-adjusted, happy dog as an adult.

It’s also important for your Pomsky to learn some basic obedience. A good puppy preschool or puppy kindergarten class is recommended, along with a basic obedience course. These classes are taught by many pet supply stores, kennel clubs, and animal shelters.

Pomeranians, in particular, can become dominant if you aren’t firm with them. It’s possible that some Pomskies will share this personality trait. Obedience lessons from a young age will help you establish your role as leader.

Size

With two parents of such different sizes there can be some variation in size when it comes to the offspring. Most sources say that the Pomsky is between the Pomeranian and Siberian in size but it’s always possible that a puppy could be more like one of his parents. He could be very small like a Pom or larger like a Siberian. They can be 10 to 18 inches tall. Most Pomskies probably won’t weigh more than about 10 and 35 pounds, making them medium in size.

The International Pomsky Association offers these size recommendations but, again, there is no recognized standard followed by all breeders at this time:

Toy- typically 5-9 pounds and under 10” at the shoulder
Mini over 9 pounds and up to 15” tall
Standard 15-18” tall and generally between 18-25 pounds

Coats

Both Poms and Siberians have thick double coats so you should expect a Pomsky to have a similar kind of coat. All colors can appear in the Siberian, along with some striking head markings and patterns. All kinds of colors and patterns appear in the Pomeranian, though orange may be the most common. Pomskies come in lots of different colors.

While some “doodle” dogs with Poodle parents can be low-shedding, the Pomsky is not one of these dogs. With these parents, you should expect the Pomsky to shed quite a bit.

Environment

Since they are usually small to medium in size, a Pomsky can make a good dog for apartment living as long as you are ready to do some work. Do keep in mind that a Pomsky is not usually a toy dog, like a Pomeranian, even if he is very small and cute as a puppy. A Pomsky is part Siberian Husky so this dog will need plenty of daily exercise.

Some Pomskies can be quite vocal – something they can inherit from their Siberian parent. Pomeranians, too, can be rather yappy at times. This means that some Pomskies can be too noisy to be good apartment neighbors.

As mentioned earlier, with a thick double coat like their parents, Pomskies also shed a lot so you should be prepared to vacuum frequently. You can probably expect to have dog hair on your clothes.

Despite these drawbacks, Pomskies are adaptable and can enjoy living in different places whether you live in the city, suburbs, or in a rural area.

Health

As with other hybrids, Pomskies can inherit some of the health problems found in both of their parent breeds. We recommend that you look for a breeder who health tests the parents. It’s It’s not possible to avoid all health problems (for dogs or humans), but health testing the parents is one way to try to minimize risks.

Health problems shared by both Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies include:

  • Possible eye problems

Both breeds have some other health issues but they do not generally overlap. Pomeranians can have luxating patellas (similar to a slipped kneecap in a human). This is something that might occur in a Pomsky. Pomeranians can also have dental problems and this is something that can show up in Pomskies. Alopecia – a skin disease – can also show up in Pomskies. Neither breed is very prone to hip dysplasia.

Both Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies tend to have long lifespans. Poms can live up to 16 years; Siberians can live up to 14 years. With good care, it’s thought that a Pomsky might live just as long though these dogs have not yet been around that long.

Exercise

Expect your Pomsky to be playful and active, especially when he’s a puppy. Even as he becomes mature he will need regular daily exercise.

Since the Pomsky likes to show off and get attention, exercise is a good way to use up some of his energy. It can keep him from getting into trouble in the house.

Trainability

Most Pomskies are very smart. That doesn’t mean that they are always easy to train. Training can be a trial but if you can find ways to motivate your Pomsky so he has fun, it’s worth the effort.

Grooming

Pomskies have a thick double coat that needs lots of regular brushing. Brushing will help with the shedding but it won’t prevent it completely. Make sure you include regular dental brushing and care as part of your dog’s grooming routine since the Pomsky can have dental problems.

The Bottom Line

Pomskies are playful, smart, cute, and outgoing. They can inherit some of the best traits from the Pomeranian and Siberian Husky. This hybrid is becoming very popular but it is not necessarily an easy dog to keep or care for. Puppy pictures are adorable but if you are interested in a Pomsky it’s important to remember that they will grow into adult dogs.

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