The Shiba Inu Pomeranian mix, also known as a Pom-Shi, is a hybrid breed gaining popularity among dog lovers.
This adorable cross between a Pomeranian and a Shiba Inu has distinctive traits and features unique to its breed.
Pom-Shi dogs are small in size, with a compact and sturdy build, and have a sweet and friendly disposition.
They are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, making them excellent pets for families and individuals.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
6-17 inches
Weight
3-23 lb
Lifespan
12-16 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
affectionate, intelligent, confident, agile, protective, independent, sweet
Origin
The Shiba Inu Pomeranian mix, also known as the Pom-Shi, is a designer dog breed that crosses between a purebred Shiba Inu and a purebred Pomeranian.
This mix does not have a clear origin as it is a relatively new breed and was likely created in the United States sometime during the 2000s.
The Pom-Shi is bred for its adorable looks, friendly temperament, and small size, making it a popular choice among dog owners looking for a cute and cuddly companion.
Coat
The Pom-Shi has a furry and dense coat that varies between being wavy and straight, requiring grooming 1-2 times a week to remove tangles or mats.
If left unattended, their thick double coat sheds excessively and could lead to skin and coat disorders.
The Shiba Inu Pomeranian Mix can inherit various coat colors: red, cream, white, black, tan, fawn, and sable.
However, their nose, paw pads, and round eyes are always darker than their fur.
If you’re deciding whether to take in a Pom-Shi, note that their coat colors may change as they grow older, and you may not always be able to predict it accurately.
Temperament/Behavior
The Pom-Shi takes after its parent breeds in its traits, with its lively spirit and affectionate nature.
They are great apartment dogs that benefit from socializing and mingling with their owners in day-to-day activities.
Pomeranians are excellent companion dogs, while Shiba Inus are independent and bold dogs bred for hunting.
Thus, the Pom-Shi may inherit both traits, requiring early socialization and training to help them coexist with other pets and children.
Exercise Requirements
Shiba Inu Pomeranian Mix requires moderate activity levels, including daily walks and a chance to play off-leash in a secure area.
They benefit from early exposure to training and different experiences, which helps them become comfortable around people and dogs.
Training a Pom-Shi with positive reinforcement techniques like praise and treats is relatively easy.
Harsh physical corrections may cause aggression and fearfulness, leading to negative behavior.
Food/Diet
The Pom-Shi requires a well-balanced, nutritious diet. They should consume two and a half cups daily depending on their age, size, and activity levels.
Feed them high-quality dog food with balanced protein, fat, and calorie levels.
Like all dogs, the Pom-Shi requires daily access to clean and fresh water.
Limit or avoid artificial sweeteners like xylitol, onions, garlic, or grapes, as they can be highly toxic to dogs.
Common Health Problems
Despite their relatively good health, Pom-Shi can still experience health issues from either parent breed.
First and foremost, Pom-Shi suffers from dental issues, so maintaining dental hygiene can help prevent dental diseases, infections, and bad breath.
Another frequent disorder that affects Pom-Shi is hip dysplasia, which affects the hip joints and can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.
This is common in both Pomeranians and Shiba Inus.
Other health concerns that Pom-Shi’s can face include cataracts, heart problems, epilepsy, and allergies.
Conclusion
The Shiba Inu Pomeranian Mix may be a small and gentle dog breed, but they possess unique traits that make them fascinating pets.
With a fluffy and silky coat, the Pom-Shi requires routine grooming and exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
A well-balanced diet, early training, exposure to different situations, and regular checkups can help prevent various health concerns.
Therefore, the Shiba Inu Pomeranian Mix might be the perfect pet if you’re looking for a cute, comfortable, and playful companion.
