The Pomeranian Sheltie Mix, also known as Poshie, is a designer dog breed gaining popularity among pet enthusiasts.
It is a crossbreed between a Pomeranian and a Shetland Sheepdog, both known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature.
Poshies are small to medium-sized dogs with a cute and fluffy appearance, making them irresistible to many people.
They are also known for their energetic personality, adaptability, and trainability.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
12-18 inches
Weight
5-40 lb
Lifespan
12-16 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
loving, alert, loyal, energetic, independent
Origin
The Pomeranian Sheltie Mix is a designer dog breed created by crossing a purebred Pomeranian with a purebred Shetland Sheepdog.
The origin of the Poshie is not entirely clear, as there is little documentation about the breeder who first began intentionally creating this mix.
However, the breed likely originated in the United States during the late 20th century, when designer dogs began gaining popularity.
Crossbreeding a Pomeranian with a Sheltie aimed to create a small, affectionate, and intelligent breed with a long coat and a friendly temperament.
Today, some organizations recognize Poshies as a designer breed, but the American Kennel Club does not recognize them.
Coat
Poshies come in various colors: black, brown, white, and cream.
Their coats resemble a mix between their Pomeranian and Shetland Sheepdog parents, with the coats being plush and moderately long.
The Poshie’s coat requires a moderate level of grooming, and their shedding can increase during specific periods.
Brushing their coat thrice a week will help prevent mats and tangles. Grooming them regularly also ensures their coats remain shiny and healthy.
Poshies also require regular nail trimming, teeth cleaning, and ear cleaning.
Temperament/Behavior
Pomeranian Sheltie Mix is incredibly intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs.
They make great family pets and thrive in environments with love and attention.
These dogs are alert and vigilant, often making excellent watchdogs.
They enjoy playing and going on walks or jogs with their human companions.
Poshies thrive on attention, demanding a significant amount of it daily.
They dislike being ignored and can demonstrate destructive behavior when left alone for long periods.
Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral problems among Poshies; thus, they always prefer being with their families.
Exercise Requirements
Pomeranian Sheltie Mix is an active dog that requires moderate exercise daily.
They can enjoy going for regular walks, playing tug-of-war or fetch, or running around in the backyard.
Owners should note that Poshies are not the type of dog that need hours of intensive exercise each day.
Poshies are easily trainable, and they respond well to positive reinforcement.
Start training your Poshie while still young, as they can be stubborn sometimes, especially if they’ve not been socialized.
Food/Diet
Like most breeds, Poshies require high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs.
Owners must feed them a well-balanced diet that comprises protein, carbohydrates, and fat.
The breed has a delicate digestive system, and overfeeding them can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Always provide them with fresh drinking water and avoid giving them table scraps.
Common Health Problems
While Pomeranian Sheltie Mix is generally healthy, they’re still susceptible to certain health problems like any other breed.
Some of the common health problems that may affect Poshies include:
- Hip dysplasia: This condition occurs in dogs when the hip joint fails to develop correctly, leading to arthritis and pain.
- Dental problems: Poshies have delicate jaws, and tartar buildup can cause gum disease and tooth loss.
- Allergies: Allergies can affect Poshies and can be caused by food, pollen, or environmental factors.
- Eye problems: Poshies can develop eye problems such as cataracts, which can cause vision loss if left untreated.
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular visits to the veterinarian can help Poshies stay healthy and avoid these health problems.
Conclusion
The Pomeranian Sheltie Mix is a delightful and affectionate hybrid breed that perfectly fits any home.
They are intelligent, trainable, and social dogs that make excellent companions for families of all sizes.
Your Poshie can bring joy and happiness for years with proper training, grooming, and care.
