Do Pomeranians Like to Cuddle? The Way They Show Affection

They may be closely related to working sled dog breeds, but the Pomeranian’s only job these days is serving as an adorable pet. And they’re very good at that job, making them one of the most popular small breeds in the world. Known for developing strong attachments to their humans, many Pomeranians like to cuddle, but like every breed, there are exceptions to this rule.

In this article, we’ll discuss whether Pomeranians are a naturally affectionate breed, along with some ways they may demonstrate this attachment. We’ll also talk about how to tell if your Pomeranian is uncomfortable with your attempts to cuddle with them.

Are Pomeranians Affectionate?

Most Pomeranians are naturally inclined to cuddle and show affection to their owners. Your Pomeranian may especially enjoy cuddling if they form a strong attachment to you as a puppy. Pomeranians are intelligent dogs, and habits formed young are likely to carry over into adulthood, especially if they are positively reinforced.

Pomeranians are usually affectionate with their families, but the same doesn’t apply to strangers. These dogs may be tiny, but they don’t act like they are! As vigilant watchdogs, Pomeranians probably won’t automatically extend their affection to people they don’t know.

Because of their size, Pomeranians are also more protective of themselves. They probably won’t want to cuddle with someone they don’t know and trust. Early socialization will help Pomeranians be calmer and more accepting of people they don’t know, but don’t be surprised if they’re still a bit wary.

Other Ways Pomeranians Show Affection

Let’s say that cuddling isn’t exactly your Pomeranian’s love language. Some Poms are more independent or uncomfortable with being picked up and held. This breed has a strong personality, and you should never force cuddling on a Pomeranian that doesn’t enjoy it.

In the next section, we’ll talk about how to tell your dog isn’t a fan of cuddling, but they demonstrate their affection in different ways too. For example, when your watchful Pomeranian alerts you to anything they find suspicious, that’s one way they show they care.

Some Pomeranians may prefer being close to you all the time, following you around the house and sitting nearby. Maybe they’ll bring you toys, beg you to play, or place a paw on you. Your Pomeranian may also snuggle with items that smell like you, such as your dirty laundry.

How to Tell Your Pomeranian Is Uncomfortable with Cuddling

Because Pomeranians are tiny, it can be tempting to pick them up and cuddle, no matter what their feelings are on the subject. However, this behavior could lead your dog to distrust you or display aggressive behavior in self-defense. By learning to recognize the signs that your dog is uncomfortable or afraid, you help avoid negative reactions.

Signs of fear or discomfort in dogs are often hard to recognize unless you know what you’re looking for. In other cases, your dog may make it very obvious how they feel. Here are some common signs that your Pomeranian is scared or uncomfortable with cuddling:

Teaching young children to recognize and respect a Pomeranian’s boundaries is incredibly vital. Small dogs are often nervous around kids anyway because of the fast, unpredictable way they move. Unless the children learn the correct way to handle a Pomeranian, the kids and dog are at risk of injury.

Summary

Since they’re smart, playful, adorable, and always ready for their close-up, it’s easy to see why Pomeranians are such a popular breed. While most Poms are affectionate and ready to cuddle, individual dogs may display different preferences. If you’re tempted to add one of these fluffy pups to your family, learn all you can about what it’s like to live with a Pomeranian first. Not every breed is a good match for every family, and those with small children, in particular, should consider carefully whether a Pomeranian is the best fit.

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Featured Image Credit: Alina Kruk, Shutterstock