Pomskies thrive as family companions, forming deep bonds and adding joy to their loved ones’ lives. They require consistent direction and attention, as well as daily physical exercise and mental stimulation like training sessions or puzzle toys.
As double-coated dogs, they also shed seasonally and need regular brushing to help minimize shedding and tangles. With proper care, these smart pups can be trained to do almost anything!
Pomskies are affectionate, playful, and intelligent dogs. They are happiest when they have someone to play with them, take them on walks, and include them in family outings. They can also be content with lap time, especially after expelling their energy. They may inherit their husky parents’ goofy husky-talk when they play, as well as the desire to dig—something to watch out for if you have flowers in your garden.
Due to their Husky parentage, Pomskies have a strong independent streak that can make them stubborn and resistant to training. They require calm, assertive leadership and a lot of patience to train them well. They can be prone to eye issues, including cataracts and glaucoma, as well as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Like their husky and Pomeranian parentages, Pomskies are high-energy dogs that need regular daily exercise to burn off their energy. Ideally, this will include daily walks and playtime in the yard or at the dog park, as well as weekend hikes and sessions in the pool. They enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence, such as puzzle toys and basic agility training. They can get along with children, but they should be introduced to them at an early age and be taught how to properly interact with them.
Because they are so intelligent, Pomskies can be a bit more difficult to housetrain than other breeds. It is recommended that you begin training your dog as soon as you bring him home, using positive reinforcement and consistent commands. This will help prevent him from becoming frustrated and giving up, which can happen with more stubborn breeds.
Pomskies can suffer from a range of health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, heart disease, and bloat. They are also prone to allergies, both environmental and food-based. They are moderately shedding dogs, but they shed more heavily during seasonal shedding periods in the spring and fall. Regular brushing will manage their shedding and keep their coats healthy and free of matting. Pomskies may also need to have their ears clipped and their teeth cleaned. For these procedures, you will need a veterinary professional who has experience working with this particular breed.
Temperament
Pomskies are playful and intelligent dogs with a goofy, spirited nature that makes them unique companions. However, their innate curiosity and intelligence can lead to independence and stubbornness, and they require consistent training to channel these traits into obedient behaviors. These small dogs are also highly social and thrive on interaction, making them well suited for families who want to include them in daily activities like playtime and walks.
Due to their parent breeds’ adventurous spirit and resilience, pomskies have a high tolerance for exercise and are generally healthy dogs. They can also be prone to certain genetic health issues, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, dental problems, and eye conditions. Choosing a reputable breeder who conducts regular health testing can help reduce the risk of these common issues.
Like snowflakes, no two pomskies are alike in their temperament or appearance. While they often lean more towards one parent breed than the other, most have a blend of both that creates their distinct personalities. As such, they can be more independent than their Pomeranian parents and may require more living space to get out their energy.
Because of their sociable and intelligent natures, pomskies make great family pets. They bond closely with their humans and are eager to be included in daily activities, such as games of fetch or interactive toys that tap into their intelligence. While a Pomsky is a naturally docile dog, it can sometimes be prone to barking in defense of its territory, so consistent training is essential.
Because of their active, high-energy natures, pomskies are not the best choice for first-time owners or those who prefer more laidback dogs. They are also not as calm or peaceful as their pommeranian parents, and they can be loud at times. Lastly, despite being small dogs, they are not hypoallergenic and shed a considerable amount, especially during the summer. This can irritate people with allergies, so consistent grooming is essential.
Health
Due to their husky parents, Pomskies can have genetic predispositions to certain health issues, including allergies and skin problems, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and collapsing trachea (which causes a dry cough that sounds like a goose honk). They are also prone to dental problems, so it is important to brush their teeth on a regular basis and get them checked by a veterinarian for issues as they develop.
Pomskies typically live to be about 14-16 years old. They usually do not suffer from the health issues that plague purebred huskies, but they can still be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts, and heart diseases like mitral valve disease and aortic stenosis. They are prone to shedding throughout the year and will require regular grooming to keep their coats clean.
They are pack animals by nature and are suited to living with other dogs, cats and children as long as they are introduced properly at an early age. However, their size and natural protective instincts can make them skittish around very young children. Generally, they are affectionate and playful with kids and enjoy the energy that children bring to the family.
Pomskies are highly loyal and tend to become velcro dogs, sticking close to their people and demanding attention. This can lead to separation anxiety, which may manifest as excessive barking, destructive behavior, and potty accidents. A veterinary visit and early training can help to address these issues.
Because Pomskies have a high intelligence, they can become bored if not provided with adequate mental stimulation. This can be done by providing a variety of interactive toys or teaching them progressively difficult tricks. They can also benefit from a few daily walks and sessions at the dog park to burn off their energy.
Training
Pomskies have the intelligence inherited from their parent breeds and are highly receptive to training. However, they also have a mischievous streak and can be stubborn, which can lead to behavior problems if not channeled appropriately. As a result, pomskies require an owner with experience and patience.
Because the Pomsky is still a new designer dog, it’s important to find an ethical breeder who practices responsible breeding methods. Albera recommends asking for photos of a litter and visiting the mother and father dogs. “If you’re not sure the breeder is treating the parents and puppies in a humane manner, don’t buy from them,” she says.
Like all small dogs, pomskies are easily potty trained. Begin by taking your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime to establish bathroom routine. Be consistent with this schedule and use verbal cues like “go potty” to teach them the association. Then, gradually extend the amount of time between potty breaks to meet your dog’s needs. Be sure to keep training sessions short and positive, and never scold your dog for accidents or you may create fear-based behavior.
Because of their sled-pulling heritage, pomskies need plenty of exercise and play to burn off energy. This can be achieved through brisk walks, interactive toys, or indoor activities like puzzle games. They can even do well in an apartment if they’re let out to run around the fenced-in yard or engage in indoor play several times a day.
These intelligent pups thrive on attention and enjoy being part of the family. In fact, they typically bond closely with their owners and aren’t well-suited for homes where they’ll spend long periods of time alone. Pomskies are happiest when they’re engaged in physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation.
Because of their small size, pomskies can be prone to hip dysplasia, an orthopedic condition that affects the joint and leads to pain and lameness. Your vet can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in the affected area and other steps you can take at home to manage symptoms.