A fluffy, ridiculously cute dog that looks like a miniature Husky? Yes, please!
People are lining up for Pomsky puppies around the world, and it’s no wonder. These energetic extroverts are playful and intelligent dogs. Plus, they’re so stinkin’ adorable! If you find yourself smitten with this adorable crossbreed, there are a few things you need to know.
Pomskies are a relatively new hybrid, created by crossing a Pomeranian with a Siberian husky. If you’re used to the predictability of a purebred, you could be in for a surprise when meeting a litter of Pomsky puppies.
This breed inherits a mix of traits from both of their parent breeds, so variations do occur. There’s no exact science to predicting which of those traits will manifest in a Pomsky, so every puppy is a unique melting pot of mixed-genes!
That said, there are certain characteristics that shine through in most Pomsky puppies. But, it’s important to remember, that artificial insemination is usually needed to produce a litter of Pomskies. And, due to the vast difference in size, the mother must be the Husky, otherwise a Pomeranian mother carrying a litter of puppies larger than her can have devastating health consequences.
If you’ve ever considered adding one of these pups to your household, we’ve got you covered with all the facts you need to know.
(@dublinthepomsky)Pomsky Puppy Facts
Our breakdown of Pomsky traits will help you decide if this breed is right for you.
Just remember—this is a crossbreed, so every Pomsky puppy will have slight variations.
All right, let’s brush up on your Pomsky puppy facts!
| Size | Small to mid-sized. Generally, 25-38 cm tall (10-15 inches). A full-grown Pomsky will usually weigh between 9-14 kg (20-30 pounds). |
| Breed Characteristics | Best known for its wolfish/Husky-like appearance, the Pomsky has a soft, silky coat and a bushy curved tail.
Their medium-length double coat is a mix of black, white, and grey. Breeders are still working on developing a breed standard when it comes to the Pomsky’s appearance, so puppies will be varied. |
| Temperament | Pomsky puppies inherit a unique blend of personality traits from their parent breeds.
Expect to see both watchdog behaviour (from their Pomeranian genes) and good-natured patience (from their Husky genes). They also tend to inherit a double dose of smarts from both parents, making them easy to train in addition to becoming easily bored. Pomsky puppies are loyal and loving dogs who enjoy a lot of attention from their owners. You’ll need energy to spare to keep up with this pup: Pomskies are energetic and love to play. |
| Grooming and Health Needs | Pomskies sport a double coat, which needs to be brushed frequently—up to three to five times per week!
Since Huskies are at risk for hip dysplasia and eye problems, and Pomeranians are prone to skin problems, Pomskies have the potential to develop any one of these health issues. |
| Training | With the advantage of two intelligent parent breeds, the Pomsky is clever and eager to please. This lucky combination usually makes him a trainable breed, however, his Husky genes may manifest as willful stubbornness or even goofy mischievousness. Consistency is key in training a Pomsky. |
| Energy Level | A bored Pomsky can become a destructive Pomsky, so it’s imperative to get in plenty of interactive playtime. This hybrid will certainly keep you on your toes with his energetic escapades. Be prepared to maintain a regular exercise regimen to keep your Pomsky happy and out of trouble. |
| Life Expectancy | A Pomsky will usually live 14-15 years. |
Who Is The Best Human For A Pomsky Puppy?
Could a Pomsky puppy be in your future? They’re a lovely, friendly breed, but they’re not for everyone. Let’s explore whether or not you have what it takes to raise a happy Pomsky puppy.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the following still bears repeating: Pomskies have energy to spare. They need owners who will help them channel this extra enthusiasm into healthy outlets. Daily exercise is a must.
One less-than-desirable trait we sometimes see with Pomskies is a habit of barking excessively, which could make them unsuitable apartment residents without dedicated training from day one.
What about kids? Since they love to play so much, a home with children is a great environment for Pomsky puppies to thrive.
Just introduce him slowly and gently to kids because Pomskies can be a little nervous. And watch out for toddlers—a Pomsky’s spirited antics could unintentionally knock a little one over.
Another quirk to watch for: like their Pomeranian parent breed, Pomskies can develop possessive instincts, and if you fail to curb this behaviour with the proper training, your Pomsky puppy could become overly protective of his toys or food.
When it comes to adopting a Pomsky puppy, one of the top things to keep in mind is their need for attention. If you’re out of the house all day, you may need to hire a dog-walker to check in and play with your Pomsky.
Another great option is puppy daycare or working at a dog-friendly company so you can bring your pup into the office with you every day.
Left to their own devices alone at home, your Pomsky could develop undesirable behaviours such as chewing and other destructive habits.
Getting a Pomsky Puppy
The decision to adopt or to work with a breeder for your new Pomsky puppy is a personal choice that requires research. Thankfully, there are many resources out there to help you find a rescue or a breeder who offers healthy, ethically-sourced Pomsky puppies.
Remember—since the Pomsky is not a purebred, they’re not recognised by the UK Kennel Club. The United Kingdom Pomksy Association has a list of breeders and further information.
Adopting a Pomsky puppy
It may come as a surprise, but adopting a Pomsky puppy could be possible. Dogs are given up for all kinds of reasons including a change in lifestyle or the breed not being a good fit. Although Pomskies are a rare sight at rescue charities, it can happen.
The main difference between a breeder and a rescue charity is that the latter may not always have young puppies to choose from. But the benefits of adopting an older dog normally include them being neutered and, often, they’re already housetrained. You may also find a different mix that has all the traits you want from the parent breeds, but with a little extra thrown in.
You might have luck looking at Pomeranian or Siberian Husky rescue groups for a mix of those breeds.
Finding a Pomsky breeder
The first step is to do your research. Sadly, there are many puppy mills posing as reputable breeders along with many online scams. Be aware, and reach out to different online forums for conversations about getting your future furry family member.
Be sure to ask questions, and make arrangements to meet the parent dogs or mother. This will help you determine if a puppy is suitable for you.
In the end, you must follow your gut. If something seems wrong at a breeder you visit, or the Pomsky puppy seems too good to be true, there’s probably something fishy going on. The Kennel Club has useful resources that will help you find a responsible, ethical breeder and avoid puppy farms.
Knowing what you’re in for when you get a Pomsky puppy is an important step in being a responsible pet owner. Whether you find an ethical breeder or are planning to adopt, prepare yourself for an affectionate and friendly addition to your household.
Pomsky Puppy Resources
After you find the right Pomsky puppy, it’s time to prepare your home! Here are a few resources to get you started:
- How to Survive the First 24 Hours with Your New Puppy
- 50 Puppy Training Tips
- How Long Can You Leave a Puppy Alone?
- How Often Should I Walk My Puppy
- The Essential New Puppy Checklist
Featured image via Flickr/Dwight Sipler
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