Our editorial team knows that the Pomeranian’s double coat demands consistent grooming, not just for looks but for health. The single most important thing to understand is that to keep your Pomeranian’s coat free of mats and to manage heavy seasonal shedding, you should brush them at least three times per week, and daily during spring and fall when they blow their undercoat.

This breed has a dense, fluffy undercoat and a longer, harsh outer coat that can easily tangle. Without regular grooming, mats form close to the skin, causing pain and skin infections. Grooming sessions are also a chance to check for lumps, parasites, or skin issues. While professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks helps, at-home care is essential for a happy, healthy Pom.

The Pomeranian Double Coat: A Grooming Priority

The Pomeranian’s coat is a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat that provides insulation and a longer, straight outer coat that repels moisture and dirt. This combination means they shed moderately year round and heavily twice a year, typically in spring and fall. During these ‘blow out’ periods, loose undercoat can accumulate quickly and lead to mats if not removed.

To manage this, brush your Pom at least three times a week using a slicker brush to reach the undercoat, followed by a metal comb to check for tangles. During heavy shedding, daily brushing is recommended. Many owners use an undercoat rake during those times to remove dead fur efficiently. Never shave a Pomeranian, as the coat may not grow back properly and can lead to permanent coat damage and sunburn.

  • Use a slicker brush for the undercoat and a metal comb for the outer coat.
  • Focus on areas prone to matting: behind ears, under legs, and around the neck.
  • If you hit a mat, work it out gently with your fingers or a dematting tool; never cut it out with scissors as Pom skin is thin and can be easily cut.

Bathing and Drying: A Delicate Balance

Pomeranians do not need frequent baths; overbathing strips natural oils and dries out skin. Bathing every 3 to 4 weeks is typical, or only when they are visibly dirty or smelly. Always use a dog shampoo formulated for double coats or sensitive skin. Conditioner is also important to keep the coat soft and reduce static.

Drying is the most critical part. A Pom’s dense coat holds moisture close to the skin, which can lead to hot spots or fungal infections. After towel drying, use a high velocity dog dryer on a low heat setting, brushing at the same time to fluff and separate the hair. Never leave a Pom damp after a bath. Some owners take their Poms to a professional for drying if they lack the proper equipment.

Beyond the Coat: Nails, Ears, Teeth, and Pads

Grooming a Pomeranian involves more than just fur. Their nails grow quickly and need trimming every 2 to 4 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort and alter gait, leading to joint issues. Use a nail grinder or guillotine type clipper designed for small dogs; take care to avoid the quick.

Ears should be checked weekly for wax, dirt, or redness. Clean only the outer ear with a vet-informed solution on a cotton ball, never insert anything into the ear canal. Dental care is vital: small breeds like Poms are prone to dental disease. Brush teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste, and offer dental chews or toys. Finally, trim the fur between paw pads and around the anus to keep hygiene and reduce matting.

  • Nails: trim every 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Ears: check weekly, clean as needed.
  • Teeth: brush 2 to 3 times per week.
  • Paw pads: trim hair monthly.