Originally produced in Australia, the Australian pom is an all-breed dog. Pomeranian and Australian Shepherd cross breeds were used to create the Australian Pomeranian, a dog that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
This breed is one of the cleverest, with the ability to learn more than 200 words, making it simple to provide directions. Friendly and eager to please, they are a joy to have around! Aussiepoms are commonly referred to as "Aussiepoms," "Aussipoms," or even "Aussie Poms' ' instead.
Unlike certain breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Aussiepoms are meant to be a family pet that can go wherever with you. They don't suffer from separation anxiety or other behavioural issues. This breed is recognized for its high energy levels, despite its diminutive stature. Intelligent and eager to please their masters, they are a joy to have around.
They love children and other pets, but should not be around small animals or children they do not know well because they can get overexcited. The Aussiepom dog breed was developed in Australia.
All of the traits of the Aussiepom mixed breed are listed here.
Highlights
- These canines, known as Aussiepoms, are a cross between an Aussie and a Poodle. Like their Australian Shepherd or Pomeranian parents, they aren't purebreds like their offspring are.
- There is a wide range of colors in Aussiepoms, including red and blue merle, tri-color, and solid coats with a few spots of color here and there.
- The long coat of the Aussiepom may not be suited for allergy patients. Their thick, fluffy coats, on the other hand, keep them cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.
- Aussiepoms is good for the whole family, but they are little and often harmed by too enthusiastic children. If you're going to introduce or play with dogs, be sure that all children have been trained how to handle them carefully.
- To maintain their high level of energy, Aussiepoms require a lot of exercise and playtime.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
As a common misconception holds, only dogs that are small qualify as apartment pets. Many tiny dogs are too energetic and happy to live in a high-rise apartment complex. Several attributes make a good apartment dog: low activity, serenity indoors, and politeness toward other neighbors are among them. And if you want to offer your dog a bit more privacy in your apartment, this is the place to do it.
Sensitivity Level
While some dogs are unfazed by a firm rebuke, others take offense at even the slightest hint of filth. It's easier for dogs with low sensitivity to handling a noisy, chaotic home, a louder or more aggressive owner, and an unpredictable or variable routine, often known as "easygoing," "tolerant," and "resilient." Playing in a garage band, having young children, or living a hectic lifestyle are all signs that you might fit into this category. Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. It's unlikely that these dynamos would be a good choice for a family with young children or an old or fragile member because of their high training requirements. On the other side, a low-vigour dog takes a more subdued approach to life.
Potential for Playfulness
Certain dogs are always looking for a game, while there are both who are reserved. Consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day and whether you have children or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog, even if a playful pup seems delightful
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
Sheepdogs, which were intended to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention, need mental exercise just as much as dogs raised to gallop all day do. Digging and chewing are two examples of activities that a bored pet will engage in if they don't obtain the mental stimulation they need. Dog sports and occupations, like agility and search and rescue, are excellent methods to offer a dog a mental workout.
Energy Level
High-energy dogs are constantly ready to go. These dogs were initially meant to retrieve game for hunters or herd animals, which takes a lot of stamina. As a result, they're more likely to jump, play, and explore new sights and smells.
Dogs with low energy levels prefer to sleep all day. When choosing a dog breed, consider your activities and lifestyle. Do you like or dislike a spirited dog?
Easy To Train
Dogs who are easy to train are more adept at quickly linking a cue (such as the phrase "sit"), an action (such as sitting), and a result (such as receiving a reward). Dogs that are more difficult to teach require more time, patience, and repetition.
You'll need to utilize incentives and games to get your dog excited about training because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" training mentality.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Some breeds remain distant and independent, while others form close bonds with one individual and are indifferent to others. Not only does a dog's breed influence its amount of connection, but so does its upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
A kid-friendly dog is kind to children, strong enough to bear heavy-handed pets and hugs, and tolerant of running, shouting children. Who's on that list may surprise you: Fierce-looking Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are good with kids (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas are small, fragile, and possibly sharp canines.
Dog Friendly
There is a world of difference between being friendly to dogs and being friendly to people. Even if a dog is a big fan of humans, it can attack or try to dominate another dog. Other dogs prefer to play rather than fight, and some will simply go away. It's not only a matter of genetics. At least six to eight weeks of age, puppies should have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother, and they are more likely to have good social skills.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
To have a dog in your home, you'll have to cope with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in your home. However, the amount of hair that is shed varies substantially between breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still, others don't shed at all. Pick a breed that sheds less or lowers your requirements if cleanliness is important to you. You can get an excellent deshedding gadget to assist keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
Slobber-prone dogs may leave huge, wet stains on your clothes and your arm when they come over to say hi. If drool isn't a concern for you, then go ahead and get a dog that doesn't drool excessively.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and gone, while others require frequent bathing, cutting, and other grooming to remain healthy and clean. It's important to think about whether you have the time and resources to properly groom a dog or if you can afford to hire someone else to do it.
Exercise Needs
Even a stroll around the neighborhood can be enough exercise for certain breeds. Dogs designed for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting, require regular intense exercise.
When these breeds don't get enough exercise, they may put on weight or engage in other undesirable behaviors, like barking, chewing, and digging. If you're an active person who likes to go outside and play with your dog, you should consider a breed that requires a lot of activity.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
10 to 30 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
11 to 17 inches
History
As the theme suggests, the Aussie Pom is a cross between the Australian Shepherd (Aussie) and the Pomeranian (Pom Pom), both of which have well-known nicknames. However, they are descended from larger "Spitz" dogs who were bred to be sled dogs in arctic regions around the world, hence the term "Pomeranian." Queen Victoria of England made Pomeranians popular by breeding them "down" to their current size in the early 18th century.
Contrary to popular perception, the Australian Shepherd is not from Australia. For sheep herding purposes, these dogs may have been bred from Collie variations in the early 1900s. During the 1950s, the Australian Shepherd's popularity skyrocketed, and now they are used for a variety of purposes, including handicapped assistance, therapy, drug detection, and search and rescue, in addition to being cherished household pets. In 1993, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed as an official one.
As a breed, Aussie Poms can be the offspring of two Aussie Poms (or a Pomeranian and an Australian Shepherd). This particular cross is a relatively recent development, and as such, its exact ancestry is unknown. However, it is becoming increasingly popular in the United States and the United Kingdom, where Pomeranians and Australian Shepherds are common, due to their manageable size and adorable fox-like traits. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize Aussie Poms (AKC). Therefore, if you're thinking about acquiring from breeders, you need to do your due diligence.
Personality and Temperament
The Aussiepom's active, loyal, and smart parents make for a high-energy dog. Most Aussiepom owners describe their dogs as lovable cuddle bugs who like cuddling with their humans at all times.
Your Aussiepom is more Australian Shepherd than Pomeranian, therefore they will need lots of mental stimulation. This breed dislikes being alone and if not appropriately stimulated, may develop destructive behaviours. In addition to physical activity,
If your Aussiepom is more Pomeranian than Australian Shepherd, they may be wary of strangers. However, while most Aussiepom owners believe their dogs aren't territorial, Pomeranians are known to guard their most precious items, including you.
Aussie pom puppies are lively, friendly, and love to socialize. Not a peep from them. They are known to be friendly and accessible.
Poms are fun to have around since they are so playful. They enjoy playing tug of war or fetch with their owners. They enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard. Poms are perfect for those who live in modest homes or apartments!
Aside from its mild aggression, the breed is known for its insatiable appetite. These dogs should be walked at least once a day, although they would be equally happy spending the day indoors with their owner. Poms are known for their mischievousness, yet they can also be obedient when required.
Care
The Aussiepom doesn't stink or drool and is considered clean. Their coats will need occasional grooming to stay healthy and mat-free. This is not a low-maintenance dog. They don't have Pomeranian's fluffy coats, but they can still blow seasonally.
The Pomeranian parent gives Aussiepoms a medium-length coat with a rich undercoat. Despite their thick fur, they can adapt to any climate. Their two coats provide insulation and heat protection and should never be shaved.
Health
There are several conditions that you should be on the lookout for in your Aussiepom, some of which are more common in their parent breeds.
An inherited disease that affects dogs with merle coats is the most devastating of these problems. It is also imperative that the parents of your Aussiepom are not merle dogs. One in every four puppies born from cross breeding two Merles will be born with double merle genes. Dogs can suffer from deafness and visual abnormalities as a result of this genetic combination.
The following are more warning signs to keep an eye out for:
Merle Considerations
If a dog has Merle parents and two copies of the merle gene (also known as "double merle" or "fatal whites"), he or she is more likely to be born with problems with hearing or vision. Merle to merle matings should be avoided ethically because of this risk. Approximately one-third of solitary merles suffer from some degree of hearing loss, demonstrating that even they are not immune.
Hip Dysplasia
There are two types of hip dysplasia in dogs: juvenile and adolescent. A loosening of the hip joint produces discomfort and disability.
A dog's hip cartilage and bone begin to deteriorate as it ages. Osteoarthritis and muscular atrophy can develop as a result. Large-breed dogs are more likely to be affected, and research suggests that it is inherited.
Ear Infections
Unlike humans, dogs' ear canals are more vertical and form an L shape that tends to hold in liquid. Dogs are more susceptible to ear infections because of this. When it comes to ear infections, bacteria, yeast, or some mix of the two are usually at blame. Dogs can also be infected by ear mites, which are commonly found in puppies.
Bloat
Bloat is a term used to describe a dog's tummy being inflated owing to overeating. Vomiting, restlessness, and pacing are all indications that have not worked. The correct amount of food and rest after a decent meal is essential.
Patellar Luxations
This condition affects Pomeranians bred to Toy and Miniature Australian Shepherds. This orthopedic condition affects toy breeds and causes knee caps to pop out of place. Their illness may be mild, resulting in a limp for some.
Some persons may experience long-term complications from kneecap dislocation. Surgery often helps dogs with severe patellar luxation. Weight loss, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can help dogs who cannot have surgery due to health or financial reasons.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Degeneration of the retinas on both sides causes gradual vision loss and eventually blindness.
Allergies
Allergies affect dogs of various breeds, not just Aussiepoms. Almost anything can cause a dog to be allergic. Fleas, home dust mites, pollen, plants, fungus, and even particular foods are common triggers. Allergic dogs may suffer from itching, ear and skin infections, gastrointestinal issues, runny eyes, and sneezing.
The allergen's source is identified and avoided if possible. A hypoallergenic diet can treat a dog's single food allergy. Flea allergies can be adequately controlled with anti-parasite medication. Grass and pollen are allergies that most dogs can't avoid.
A specialized immunotherapy shot can help relieve symptoms over time, but the expense is out of reach for some pet owners. Allergy flare-ups are common in dogs, even after immunotherapy.
Recommended Health Test
- Wellness Check
- Dental and Oral Examinations
Nutrition
Ideally, an Aussiepom's food should be catered to the breed's small stature and high level of activity.
To avoid them gaining weight, do not leave food out for them throughout the day or feed them in excess. The number of sweets they receive should also be restricted.
From puppyhood through adulthood and into old age, Aussiepom's food requirements will fluctuate. There is far too much variance among individual dogs, including weight, energy, and health, to provide detailed advice about the food of your Aussiepom.
Grooming
This breed sheds twice a year. Females may shed more regularly if not rectified. While your dog isn't shedding, brush their coat every two to three days. Their hair is prone to tangling and must be brushed continuously. If you're not sure about grooming your Aussiepom, you can always take them to the groomer.
They'll usually do their nails and clean their ears. Allow groomers to handle your puppy from a young age to assist your pet to become used to the sights and sounds of grooming. If you're an active owner, bathe your dog every three weeks. Do this to avoid drying his coat.
No need to bathe these canines as long as they aren't dirty or unclean. Every day they must brush their teeth. Keep your dog's teeth clean to avoid gum disease and stomach issues. To keep his teeth clean, offer him some dental chew toys.
Exercise
Aussiepoms are extremely active dogs, and they require quite a bit of physical activity. A regular walk and some devoted outside play are essential for dogs who spend their lives indoors. Even if you have a large backyard, you will still need to go for a stroll every day. Your dog will get some cerebral stimulation as well as physical activity while out in the community.
Aussiepoms need a lot of physical activity, and this should not be ignored. Because, as we've already stated, they can become dangerously destructive if their physical and emotional needs are not met. Because of this, the Aussiepom may not be the best dog for the elderly or anyone with mobility concerns.
Training
The Aussiepom is a well-educated breed that will benefit from your efforts. As a result, getting yelled at by them may not go down well with them. The ideal approach is to celebrate and encourage their triumphs, rather than making a fuss when they make mistakes.
A dog who craves attention, an Aussiepom is eager to learn new skills as long as the training sessions are engaging and entertaining.
You need to incorporate socialization into your dog's training because they are so empathetic. Early socialization with other dogs and people is essential for your Aussiepom's well-being. While they are still young, it's a good idea to expose them to household sounds like vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and alarm clocks.
Children and Other Pets
Because the Aussiepom is so little, it is easy for children to harm it. This is not to imply, however, that Aussiepoms cannot be terrific household pets if properly taught. Teach your children how to safely and gently engage with your Aussiepom if you live with them.
Aussiepoms can get along with other animals as long as the introduction is done in a controlled and gradual manner. Introducing a new animal will go more smoothly if the child has been socialized early on. The earlier you can introduce them to other animals, the better.
As a result, training, socialization, and chance all have a role in whether or not an Aussiepom gets along with other animals.
Puppies
An Aussiepom requires a lot of physical and mental activity to be happy.
Brushing and bathing are also required to maintain their long, fluffy, and tangled coats. As a result, the Aussiepom is a care-intensive dog that is not ideal for everyone.
Before buying an Aussiepom puppy, make sure both parents are the same color. You don't want a dog whose parents are both merles. One in every four merle puppies born will have double merle genes, a genetic combination associated with hearing loss and eyesight difficulties.
Aussiepom puppies cost between $900 and $1200, depending on their color. Buying a puppy from a pet store or a puppy factory is never a good idea.
To discover a good Aussiepom breeder, conduct some research or ask about it. Because no major kennel organization currently recognizes this bread, there is no set standard or list of certified breeders.
Visit the breeder's facility and observe the dogs' living conditions, general appearance, and demeanor.
Dog breeds related to Aussiepom
The Aussiepom is a crossbreed between two notable purebred dogs.
- Australian Shepherd
- Pomeranian
