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A Pomeranian is mostly coat. Under that fluffy cloud is a small, fine-boned dog, and the coat that makes Pomeranians so appealing is also the most demanding part of owning one. Poms have a dense double coat that sheds, tangles and goes through dramatic stages, including the infamous “puppy uglies.” This guide explains how to brush a Pom properly, how often to bathe, why shaving is especially risky for this breed, and what grooming costs.
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Quick answer: Our top pick in 2026 is the Puppy (up to 4 months) — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
The Pomeranian Coat
Pomeranians have a double coat: a soft, dense, short undercoat that pushes up a longer, harsh-textured outer coat, giving the breed its stand-off look. Adults have a ruff around the neck and chest, feathered forelegs, “pants” on the thighs and a plumed tail carried over the back.
Shedding
Poms shed moderately year-round and blow their undercoat once or twice a year. Intact females often shed heavily after a heat cycle or litter. Males may blow their coat once a year.
The puppy uglies
Between roughly 4 and 10 months, Pom puppies shed their fluffy puppy coat. The dog may look thin, patchy or oddly proportioned for several months until the adult coat grows in. This is normal. Gentle brushing and patience are all it needs.
Brushing Technique: Line Brushing
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Poms need thorough brushing two or three times a week, and daily during shedding. Surface brushing leaves the dense undercoat to mat near the skin.
- Mist the coat lightly with water or a grooming spray; never brush a Pom dry, as it breaks the hair.
- Start at the rear. Part the coat horizontally so you can see skin, and brush the hair below the part outward with a pin brush or soft slicker.
- Move the part up an inch and repeat, working toward the head.
- Comb through with a metal comb to find tangles, especially behind the ears, in the armpits and in the pants.
| Life stage | Coat condition | Brushing frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy (up to 4 months) | Soft, fluffy | 2-3x per week | Build tolerance with short sessions |
| Puppy uglies (4-10 months) | Patchy, thinning | 3x per week, gentle | Normal; adult coat grows in |
| Adult | Full double coat | 2-3x per week | Line brush to the skin |
| Coat blow | Heavy undercoat loss | Daily | Bath and blow-dry help release undercoat |
| Senior | May thin or change | 2-3x per week | Report sudden changes to vet |
Why You Should Not Shave a Pomeranian
Shaving a Pom removes the protective outer coat and can lead to poor regrowth. Pomeranians are also prone to Alopecia X, sometimes called “black skin disease,” a condition in which the coat thins and the skin darkens. Close clipping is associated with coats that fail to grow back properly in susceptible dogs. Trimming the feet, tidying the outline and keeping the sanitary area short is fine; shaving the body is not recommended.
Bathing and Drying
Bathe every three to six weeks. Brush out tangles before bathing. Use a mild shampoo and a light conditioner. The critical step is drying: blow-dry on low heat while brushing, working the dryer against the direction of growth to create the stand-off look. A damp undercoat left to air-dry can lead to skin irritation and mats.
Teeth, Eyes, Knees and Nails
Teeth
Pomeranians are very prone to dental disease because their small jaws crowd the teeth. Daily brushing is the best habit you can build.
Eyes
Wipe tear residue daily, particularly on light-colored Poms.
Nails and feet
Trim nails every three to four weeks and keep paw hair trimmed for traction. Poms are prone to kneecap problems, and slipping on hard floors does not help.
Professional Grooming Costs
A professional Pom groom with bath, blow-dry, deshed and tidy trim typically costs $50 to $90 in the US. Teddy bear-style trims are popular but should leave enough length to protect the coat and skin; discuss length with your groomer.
FAQ
Why is my Pomeranian losing hair and getting dark skin?
Alopecia X is a possibility in Poms, but hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can look similar. See your vet for a diagnosis before trying treatments.
How often do Pomeranians blow their coat?
Usually once or twice a year, often more noticeably in intact females after a heat cycle.
Bottom Line
Pomeranians need line brushing to the skin two or three times a week, daily during coat blows, and careful blow-drying after baths. Avoid shaving the body, expect the puppy uglies, and keep up with daily dental care. With that routine, your Pom’s coat stays full, healthy and fluffy.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Puppy (up to 4 months).
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