Last Updated on November 20, 2023 by Scott Allen
Who Wins the Cuteness Battle? Yorkie vs Pomeranian Showdown!
Choosing between a Yorkie and Pomeranian might seem like an uphill task for many prospective pet parents. Both breeds are small, adorable, and come packed with big personalities despite their size.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences and similarities of these companion dogs to help make your choice easier. Stick around to uncover which breed best suits your lifestyle and home!
Key Takeaways
- Yorkies and Pomeranians are small companion breeds with unique characteristics and temperaments.
- They differ in size, coat type, and common colors. Pomeranians have a fluffy double coat while Yorkies have long silky hair.
- Both breeds can be prone to certain health issues and require regular grooming.
- Yorkies may be better for experienced owners due to their bold nature, while Pomeranians are a good choice for first-time owners because of their friendly temperament.
Overview of Pomeranian and Yorkie Breeds
The Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, are both highly popular breeds due to their charming features and petite size. While they may look similar at first glance, these two breeds have unique characteristics that make them distinct from each other.
The Pomeranian is a companion dog breed with an independent spirit; often barkier than most small dogs yet still very much lovable. These small but sturdy pups were initially bred as sleigh dogs and their popularity has skyrocketed over time to become one of the most sought-after breeds worldwide.
On the contrary, Yorkies may be laid back compared to Pomeranians but they aren’t any less captivating. They are famous for their glossy coat akin to human hair – a characteristic that sets them apart from many other dog breeds which boast fur coats instead.
Moreover, aside from being great companions like the Poms, Yorkies also enjoy engaging in playful activities and showcase a brave temperament despite their diminutive stature.
Physical Differences
Yorkies and Pomeranians differ in size, coat type, and common colors.
Size
Pomeranians and Yorkies show clear physical differences in size. A Pomeranian’s height ranges from 7 to 12 inches, with a weight between 3 to 7 pounds. This breed used to be bigger but is now small compared its ancestors like the German Spitz, which weighs about twice as much.
In contrast, a Yorkie stands at around 8 to 9 inches high. Unlike Pomeranians, this breed didn’t change much in size over time. Both breeds are small but they do have their own unique sizes that set them apart.
The choice of breed may depend on how big or small you want your pet companion to be.
Coat type
Yorkies have long, silky hair that looks like human hair. They need regular grooming to keep it smooth and shiny. On the other hand, Pomeranians have a double layer of fur that is thick and fluffy.
This coat needs lots of brushing so it does not become matted. Yorkies usually have one or two colors in their coat while Pomeranians can be orange, black, cream, sable or many other colors.
All this means both breeds will need time put into maintaining their coats through bathing, brushing and trimming.
Common colors
Pomeranians and Yorkies can come in a variety of colors. Pomeranians are often seen in red, black, white, and sable colors. They can also have different coat patterns like parti-color or merle.
On the other hand, Yorkies are known for their long, silky coats that can be any shade of blue and tan. Sometimes they may also have black or gold as their primary colors. It’s important to note that the genes responsible for coat color can influence the variations in both breeds.
Additionally, if you have a mix between a Yorkie and a Pomeranian (also known as a Yorkie-Pom), the puppies may undergo color changes as they grow older due to genetics.
Personality Traits
Yorkies are known for their brave and fiery personalities, while Pomeranians are playful and friendly. Curious to learn more? Keep reading!
Yorkie: brave and fiery
The Yorkie is a small but fearless breed with a fiery personality. Despite their tiny size, they have an incredibly bold and courageous nature. They are resilient and determined, never backing down from a challenge.
Their confidence and assertiveness make them stand out among other dogs. The Yorkie is spirited and independent, always displaying self-importance in everything they do. While they have a sweet temperament, there is always a hint of that fiery spirit shining through.
Pomeranian: playful and friendly
Pomeranians are known for their playful and friendly nature. They love to engage in various activities and enjoy spending time with their owners. These little dogs have a sociable personality and are always up for some fun.
Pomeranians are curious by nature, making them eager to explore their surroundings. Their active and energetic demeanor makes them perfect companions for individuals or families looking for a lively and engaging pet.
Despite their small size, Pomeranians have a fearless attitude that adds to their charm.
Trainability
Both the Yorkie and Pomeranian have their own unique traits when it comes to trainability. Find out which breed is easier to train and why. Read more about it now!
Yorkie: can be stubborn
Yorkies can be stubborn, which means they may not always listen or follow commands easily. This can make training them a bit more challenging compared to other breeds like Pomeranians.
However, with early and consistent training using positive reinforcement techniques, Yorkies can still learn and become well-behaved pets. It’s important to be patient and persistent when teaching them obedience and new commands.
Socialization is also key to help them interact well with other dogs, especially larger ones. Additionally, Yorkies have long coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Pomeranian: independent streak
Pomeranians have an independent streak, which means they can be a little stubborn and like to do things their own way. They may not always listen or follow commands as easily as some other breeds.
This independence can make training them a bit challenging at times, but with patience and consistency, it is still possible to teach them obedience. Despite their independent nature, Pomeranians are considered intelligent dogs and can even excel in obedience competitions.
It’s important to provide proper socialization and training from a young age to help them develop good behaviors and manners.
Health and Care
Both the Yorkie and Pomeranian can be prone to certain health issues, so it’s important to stay on top of their grooming needs and provide regular exercise. Read on to discover more about how to care for these adorable breeds!
Common health issues
Pomeranians and Yorkshire Terriers are prone to similar health problems. Pomeranians can have allergies, epilepsy, and eye issues. Yorkies may experience hypoglycemia, pancreatitis, and collapsed trachea. Additionally, Pomeranians can also have trachea collapse, patella luxation, hair loss syndrome, hypothyroidism, and Cushing’s Disease. The Yorkie-Pom crossbreed can inherit health issues from both breeds. Large dog breeds like Rottweilers have joint problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis.
Grooming requirements
To keep your Pomeranian or Yorkie looking their best, regular grooming is important. Here are some things to consider:
- Pomeranians need to be brushed at least once a week and bathed as needed.
- Yorkies require daily brushing and grooming to prevent matting and knotting.
- Both breeds need regular grooming to maintain their coats.
- Pomeranians have a fluffy coat that requires less frequent grooming than Yorkies.
- Make sure you give attention to the long ears of a Yorkie, keeping them clean.
- Regular grooming helps keep the coat clean, prevents matting, and maintains appearance.
Exercise needs
Both Pomeranians and Yorkshire Terriers need regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Here are some important points about their exercise needs:
- Regular exercise helps prevent weight gain and keeps them in good shape.
- Exercise provides mental stimulation for both breeds, keeping them engaged and happy.
- Taking regular walks or engaging in outdoor activities is important for their overall wellbeing.
- Regular physical activity helps prevent obesity, which can lead to various health issues.
- Both breeds enjoy training sessions and games that challenge their intelligence.
- It’s essential to provide enough exercise to match their energy levels and keep them balanced.
- Meeting their exercise needs can be easily accomplished even in an apartment setting.
Suitability as a Pet
Yorkies are better suited for experienced owners due to their brave and fiery nature, while Pomeranians are a good choice for first-time owners because of their playful and friendly temperament.
Yorkie: better for experienced owners
Yorkies are better suited for experienced dog owners. They have a spirited personality and can be quite stubborn, which may require someone with previous dog handling experience to effectively train and handle them.
Due to their small size and feisty nature, they may not be suitable for inexperienced owners or families with young children. It’s important to consider your level of experience before getting a Yorkie as a pet.
Pomeranian: good for first-time owners
Pomeranians are a great choice for first-time dog owners. They are small in size, making them suitable for apartments or smaller living spaces. Pomeranians have a friendly and playful nature, which makes them easy to bond with and train.
They are also known to be good with children, making them ideal family pets. Additionally, Pomeranians shed less compared to other breeds, which means they require less grooming. Overall, Pomeranians make wonderful companions for those who are new to being a dog owner.
Similarities and Differences
Both the Yorkie and Pomeranian are small companion breeds, but they have different origins, temperaments, and characteristics.
Both small companion breeds
The Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier are both small companion breeds. They belong to the Companion Group and are known for their small size, making them perfect lap dogs and pets for people who have limited living space.
These toy breeds are compact in size but have big personalities. They love being around their owners, providing companionship and affection. Both breeds also have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
So if you’re looking for a miniature canine companion with a playful temperament and beautiful fur, either the Pomeranian or the Yorkie could be the perfect fit for you.
Different origins and histories
The Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier have different origins and histories. The Pomeranian originated in Pomerania, which is now part of Germany and Poland. It descended from larger sled-pulling dogs and has evolved into a smaller, more companion-oriented breed over time.
On the other hand, the Yorkshire Terrier comes from Yorkshire, England, and has roots in various terrier breeds used for ratting. Unlike the Pomeranian, the Yorkshire Terrier went through a transition from being a working-class dog to becoming a luxury pet.
Both breeds have fascinating historical backgrounds that date back thousands of years.
Different characteristics and temperaments
Pomeranians and Yorkies have different characteristics and temperaments. Pomeranians are often described as cocky, with an independent nature. They are smart, perky, and always alert to everything around them.
On the other hand, Yorkies are confident and intelligent with people-loving characteristics. They are adventurous small dogs that love to explore their surroundings. Despite their differences, both breeds are known for being affectionate and playful pets.
Choosing the Right Breed for You
Consider your lifestyle, living space, and research the characteristics of each breed before making a decision. Talk to breeders or owners to get firsthand information about their experiences with the breeds.
Consider lifestyle and living space
When deciding between a Pomeranian and a Yorkie, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and living space. Both of these small breed dogs are suitable for living in smaller spaces, like apartments or houses with limited outdoor areas.
However, there are some differences to keep in mind. Pomeranians have an active and adventurous personality, so they’re perfect for individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle themselves.
On the other hand, Yorkies have confident personalities and love being around people, making them a great choice for individuals or families looking for a people-loving dog. So before you make your decision, think about what kind of lifestyle you have and how much space you can provide for your furry friend.
Research breed characteristics
To choose the right breed for you, it’s important to do some research on their characteristics. Look into things like friendliness, exercise needs, health issues, barking tendencies, grooming needs, shedding level, and training requirements.
Understanding these traits can help you determine which breed will be the best fit for your lifestyle and living space. You can talk to breeders or owners of both Yorkies and Pomeranians to learn more about what it’s like to have them as pets.
So before making a decision, take the time to gather all the information you need about each breed so that you can make an informed choice.
Talk to breeders or owners
If you’re considering getting a Pomeranian or a Yorkie, it’s a good idea to talk to breeders or owners of these breeds. They can give you valuable insights into the characteristics and needs of each breed.
AKC-affiliated clubs for Pomeranians and Yorkies are also great resources for information. By discussing with breeders or owners, you can learn about the advantages and disadvantages of owning each breed, as well as get advice on their compatibility with your lifestyle and living space.
Just make sure to find reputable and ethical breeders when looking for Pomeranian puppies or Yorkies for sale.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between a Yorkie and a Pomeranian, there are some important factors to consider. Both breeds have their own unique qualities and characteristics. The Yorkie is known for its brave personality and fiery nature, while the Pomeranian is more playful and friendly.
Training can be challenging with both breeds, as the Yorkie can be stubborn and the Pomeranian has an independent streak. In terms of health and care, both breeds have specific grooming requirements and exercise needs.
While the Yorkie may be better suited for experienced owners, the Pomeranian can make a great pet for first-time owners. Ultimately, it’s important to take into account your lifestyle, living space, and research each breed thoroughly before making a decision on which one is right for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between a Yorkie and a Pomeranian, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and living space. Both breeds have their own unique characteristics and temperaments.
The Yorkie may be better for experienced owners, while the Pomeranian can be a good choice for first-time pet parents. Ultimately, do your research, talk to breeders or owners, and choose the breed that best fits your needs and preferences.
FAQs
1. Are Yorkies and Pomeranians good family pets?
Yes, both Yorkies and Pomeranians can be good family pets as they are friendly, playful, and loyal towards their owners.
2. Which breed is smaller, a Yorkie or a Pomeranian?
A Yorkie is generally smaller than a Pomeranian in terms of size.
3. Do Yorkies or Pomeranians require a lot of grooming?
Both breeds require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. However, Pomeranians may need more frequent brushing due to their thicker fur.
4. Are Yorkies or Pomeranians more suitable for apartment living?
Both breeds can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive proper exercise and mental stimulation through walks and playtime.
5. Do Yorkies or Pomeranians have any specific health issues I should be aware of?
Yorkies are prone to dental problems, while Pomeranians may have issues with luxating patellas (knee dislocation). Regular vet check-ups are important for both breeds to monitor their overall health.