Features of the development of a Pomeranian Spitz puppy by month

The appearance of a newborn Spitz puppy in the house is always a great joy for the owners, but also great worries. Therefore, at first you will need to show a lot of patience in training, so that your pet will subsequently be accustomed to the rules of behavior in an apartment or house. If possible, it is better to take a vacation for the first time, because a small puppy is like a small child, and for its safety it is necessary that someone look after it.

Up to 4 weeks

Pomeranian Spitz cubs are small at birth. They weigh from 55 to 125 g. The baby looks defenseless and vulnerable, he is blind and deaf.

A newborn Pomeranian puppy has a disproportionate ratio of body parts:

• the head is large and compressed;
• elongated body with a voluminous tummy;
• limbs are short.

The body is covered with weak fluff through which the skin is visible. The color of the skin indicates the future color of the animal: light fur grows on pink skin, and dark fur grows on dark skin. Blueness is a sign of possible health problems.

After 10-15 days, the Spitz begins to see clearly, and on the 17th day the ear canals open. By the 3rd week, the cubs begin to empty their bowels on their own, without maternal stimulation. By the end of 1 month, they fully stand on their paws and actively move (video from elyano4ka).

Pomeranian weight table by month

Among the Spitz there are miniature, dwarf and standard representatives. The monthly weight table contains averages for them.

For adult animals, the standards are as follows:

• Boys: 1.8-3.2 kg.
• Girls: 1.36-2.5 kg.

A deviation from the norm of 10-20% cannot be ignored:

• Too much weight. The most likely reason is obesity due to an improper feeding schedule, the puppy’s diet, coupled with low physical activity. It is necessary to put the animal on a diet and reduce the amount of high-calorie foods in the diet. The second reason is hereditary predisposition. Genetics “dictates” the body to grow large. This is not dangerous for health, but a Spitz that exceeds the standards will not be able to participate in exhibitions. The third problem of excess weight should not be overlooked - problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
• Weight too low. Only a veterinarian can accurately determine the cause of dystrophy after a visual examination and obtaining the results of laboratory and instrumental examinations. Among the most common circumstances are congenital pathology, infectious disease, genetic predisposition, improper nutrition, lack of vitamins and minerals. If an animal develops slowly without a pathological reason, it is prescribed a nutritional supplement to stimulate growth and weight gain.

You can find out if your dog has any deviations from the norm:

1. Lack of weight. The ribs and a thin, almost imperceptible fat layer can be easily felt.
2. Normal weight. The ribs can be felt, but the intercostal spaces feel shallow. There is a normal layer of fat on the bones.
3. Overweight. A thick layer of fat coupled with almost imperceptible ribs.

What vaccinations does a puppy need?

While breastfeeding babies, passive immunity protects them from infections. With the transition to self-feeding, its effect weakens, so vaccination begins at 8 weeks.

Veterinarians offer a schedule of basic vaccinations, which includes the administration of complex drugs against major infections (hepatitis, leptospirosis, enteritis, distemper, parainfluenza). Combined vaccination of Pomeranian Spitz is carried out at the age of:

• 8-9 weeks;
• 6 months;
• 1 year.

At 12 weeks, in addition to the comprehensive vaccine, the puppy is given an anti-rabies drug.

Would you like to get yourself a Pomeranian?

Differences in development between girls and boys

When comparing monthly changes in Pomeranian boys and girls, there are no significant differences in the rate of their growth and development. Puppies of both sexes begin to see clearly at the same time, begin to run, and start cutting teeth.

Unlike males, females experience their first estrus at the age of 7-9 months, accompanied by molting. The change of coat in females takes longer and more actively than in boys.

Photo gallery

Factors influencing growth

Puppies of the same breed and even the same litter develop differently. Someone seems to repeat standard norms, someone surpasses them, and someone lags behind their peers. Some puppies grow, gain weight in leaps and bounds, while others are in “waiting mode” for a long time in order to catch up and even surpass their sisters and brothers in a matter of weeks.

There are several reasons for this uneven growth:

• Genetic predisposition. Often, a miniature Spitz, having matured, can confidently compete in weight with a standard one. To avoid such a surprise, you should thoroughly study its pedigree before purchasing a puppy.
• Nutrition. Puppies that have the same weight at birth can vary greatly in weight after just a couple of months. One of the main reasons for this phenomenon is the diet and feeding schedule. According to the observations of breeders, puppies on natural food surpass the general indicators, and puppies on dry food develop more harmoniously, practically repeating the standard.
• Physical activity. The more the puppy moves, the more active games in his life, the more harmonious the development. In such an animal, the skeleton is strengthened faster and muscle mass is formed faster. An active dog with normal nutrition will never suffer from obesity or dystrophy.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements. For the harmonious development of a small Spitz, high-quality natural food or professional food is not enough. The animal is offered vitamin and mineral complexes - of the names and dosages that were prescribed by the veterinarian.

Video

Breeder's advice on choosing a puppy.

It is worth paying attention to the appearance:

1. The coat should be thick and shiny , without bald spots, tufts or large dandruff - this may indicate improper care of the puppy.
2. The pet's skin should be clean , without rashes or folds.
3. Condition of the ears : The ears should stand up and be firm to the touch, clean and free of redness.
4. Eyes and nose - no purulent discharge.
5. A dog must have 12 baby teeth.
6. Feel the tummy - there should be no hernia or swelling on it (this may indicate the presence of worms).
7. Age – 3 months, plus/minus a couple of weeks. At this age, the posture and exterior are already visible and you can select a puppy both for exhibition and for breeding.

A good breeder, along with registration documents, pedigree and vaccination certificate, will provide a description of the diet, information about future vaccinations and recommendations for a future life with the dog.

History of the breed

Looking at the cute and funny Pomeranians, it’s hard to even imagine that their ancestors weighed up to 14 kg.

But after the Pomeranians came to England in 1870, under the reign of Queen Victoria, work to improve their exterior began in full swing.

Her Ladyship had a preference for smaller members of the breed, so breeders went out of their way to provide Victoria with the smallest version of the Spitz.

Soon the Pomeranian Spitz dog acquired the familiar toy sizes that all lovers of this breed subsequently began to emulate.

And then such a miniature standard was approved by the FCI.

After fun games, the Pomeranian loves to soak up the sun

Do not confuse an ordinary German Spitz and a Pomeranian, because these dogs have significant external differences.

For example, the orange's muzzle is shorter, and the wool is softer, padded, like cotton wool.

The German Spitz has a predominant guard coat, and its muzzle is more elongated.

Character of the German (Pomeranian) Spitz and photos of dogs

By nature, German Spitz are friendly, affable, affectionate, and devoted to their owner. There is no anger, aggression, or importunity in them. They are slightly wary of strangers, but are not afraid of strangers. These animals, despite their compact size, become excellent watchmen and guardians of household property.

This photo clearly shows the external features of the small German Spitz.

As a rule, dogs of the German Spitz breed are family favorites, which is due to many positive traits in their character. These animals are affectionate, sociable, friendly, cheerful, active, determined and very brave. They become wonderful friends and companions for all household members, to whom they quickly get used to and become attached. In addition, dogs easily adapt to new living conditions and easily adapt to the rhythm of life of their owners. With older owners they behave quietly and calmly, with young owners they are more active. They love to get the attention of others and try to attract it to themselves in all possible ways: loud barking, jumping and running around family members. However, such pets will never get bored and if they feel that there is no need for their presence, they will go into their own corner.

By nature, the German Spitz dog is self-sufficient, intelligent and loyal. The animal is easy to train, quickly remembers even complex commands, and strives to conquer new heights.

The favorite activities of representatives of this breed are long walks in the fresh air (without a leash), running, games, and swimming. That is why they are ideal for people with an active lifestyle, who love to travel, relax outside the city, etc.

Number of newborns

Caring for a toy breed dog is especially important during pregnancy.
Pomeranians have long been domesticated, so the period when puppies are born is especially important for them - at this time the females are extremely vulnerable.

Spitz bear their cubs for an average of 63 - 64 days. However, you need to be careful already on day 58. A dog gives birth to one to three puppies. A dog's small body is not designed to carry more puppies.

Psychology

Pomeranians, like Papillons and Petit Brabançons , have a great need for companionship.

Due to the fact that these dogs have such miniature dimensions, you can take them with you on any walk, which the dogs will be delighted with.

If you want to look at the smallest dog in the world, we recommend that you read the article

When purchasing such a living toy, you need to familiarize yourself with its character:

- Activity. These kids don't know fatigue. They are ready to walk, happily running around the lawn for hours on end. - Playfulness. Pomeranians are ready to take part in any fun offered by their owner. Dogs get along well with children, but very small toddlers should not be allowed to play with the Spitz, because the child may unintentionally injure him. But, children really love this cute breed. - Tendency to bark excessively. Along with a ringing voice, for some this can be a test of nerve strength. Although with this characteristic, the orange becomes a reliable “bell”, announcing the arrival of welcome and not so welcome guests.

Pomeranians are real fun people and know a lot about a good party.

- Courage. These dogs don't realize how small they are. Defending their territory, they can bark and attack a dog that is significantly larger than them. - Devotion. Pomeranians become so attached to their owner that over time they can adopt his character traits. - Cheerfulness. If the owners are not in a good mood, the dog will jump out of his skin, but will cheer them up. - Tolerance. The Pomeranian Spitz dog is calm about other animals living in the house with him. - The desire to dominate. The Pomeranian behaves like a big dog; he will periodically have to be reminded who is boss.

Preparation

To ensure that the birth of your Spitz proceeds and ends without problems, thoroughly prepare for it, consult with a veterinarian, and watch videos. Thanks to video preparation, you can be in the right frame of mind and be prepared for what will happen and what it will look like.

Pregnancy lasts about two months. While the bitch is carrying puppies, preferably no later than a week before you plan to give birth, prepare all the necessary conditions:

1. Choose a room where no one will disturb you.
2. Remove all unnecessary interior items.
3. Immediately when the first signs of impending labor appear, clean and ventilate the room and disinfect the room.
4. Remove all strangers from the room. Besides you, only a veterinarian can be there.

Among other things, the room needs to be equipped. Install a spacious maternity box with two compartments - in one the bitch will give birth and rest there after the process, and in the second the newborn puppies will lie so as not to interfere with the ongoing birth.

Prepare the place

In about 10 days, or better yet two weeks, transfer the pregnant Spitz to the maternity room and teach it to boxing. This way you can prepare the bitch, and during childbirth she will lie quietly in the equipped place.

Mandatory set of equipment and first aid kit

In addition to boxing, you need to prepare the following things:

• disposable diapers;
• rags for wiping puppies;
• thermometer;
• sterile gauze wipes for wiping the puppy’s mouth;
• office and scales to record the parameters of each cub;
• sterile scissors for cutting the umbilical cord;
• an antiseptic drug for sterilizing navels, for example, Xidikol;
• silk threads for ligating the navel;
• emulsion of 10% synthomycin to avoid the inflammatory process;
• a clock to record the time between contractions and the birth of each baby.

In addition to the items listed, before giving birth you need to collect a first aid kit so that, if necessary, you can take resuscitation actions to save the litter:

• oxygen balloon;
• warmer;
• a heart stimulant, for example, Cordiamine;
• enema to remove mucus from the mouth of babies;
• No-shpa ampoules;
• 5% glucose solution;
• calcium gluconate.

24 hours before the planned birth, prepare the dog for the procedure:

• Wash your stomach and genitals with soapy water;
• trim hair around the nipples, vagina and anus.

Trim the hair around the nipples. Immediately before the process, prepare yourself - trim your nails, disinfect your hands, prepare medical gloves.

Signs of impending labor: temperature and behavior

A week before giving birth, the expectant mother’s tummy begins to sag, the vagina becomes soft and increases in size. After a few more days, the uterus drops and the back sags. Immediately a day before labor, the Spitz’s body temperature drops to 37 degrees.

Find out which dogs are most similar to Spitz.

The bitch's behavior changes and signs of nervousness appear. She begins to rush around, whine and look for a place. Toxicosis and apathy towards food may appear.

At this point, the delivery room should be completely ready to “receive patients.”

The main sign of approaching labor will be the way the bitch begins to breathe - heavy, rapid breathing appears. The dog will follow the owner's heels, give it maximum time and reassure the expectant mother.

Sometimes Spitz dogs show practically no signs of approaching labor. So that this day does not come as a surprise to you, starting from the 56th day of pregnancy, take your temperature twice a day. Do this when the dog is calm - early in the morning or late in the evening.

Attention ! Do not induce labor artificially. This can lead to uterine rupture and other injuries. Only a veterinarian can give a stimulant.

If you decide to walk your dog before giving birth, make sure that it does not start giving birth on the street. If this happens, do not miss the puppy's exit, pinch the umbilical cord with your fingers and tear it off, cover the baby and immediately go home.

If labor begins 70 days after mating, contact your veterinarian. The reason may be health or a frozen pregnancy.

A clear sign of impending labor is the appearance of chills, as well as whining of the bitch. Spitzes often arch their backs or lie on their sides before contractions.

Spitz contractions

A few hours before giving birth, the bitch may have a light brown discharge. This means that the process of rejection of the mucus plug has begun.

Third week

It is at this time that the Spitz no longer crawls hesitantly, but begins to frolic with other puppies. They also learn to relieve themselves independently. In this regard, the bitch pays less attention to the offspring. There is no need to worry if she leaves the babies for a longer period of time - by playing with each other, they will develop their muscles.

I especially note that when caring for them during this period, the owner must expand the space. A special playpen would be an ideal option. Or you can try to fence off the area with the dogs with plywood. In any case, they should no longer be huddled in a box.

When caring for babies, it is important to ensure that there are no wires or falling objects in their path. What floor surface would I recommend? Linoleum, of course, is very convenient to care for, but it slips a lot. In this case, I propose to compromise by laying wrapping paper on the linoleum. It is advisable to make several layers of this coating.

It is during this period of life that teeth are cut. This will manifest itself in swollen gums, discomfort and even loss of appetite. What kind of care on the part of the owner can we talk about? I think that no special care is required - after just a few days the baby’s mood will improve. The only thing is to make sure that none of the younger generation goes hungry.

As a rule, feeding is required when puppies are one month old. However, if they do not want to calm down after regular feeding and behave restlessly, it is worth considering an additional diet. Very thin buckwheat porridge with milk and low-fat cottage cheese are perfect for it. Closer to 4 weeks, you can try giving ground beef.

How to choose?

It is best to buy any purebred puppy from a trusted breeder.
Or in specialized nurseries.

In this case, when purchasing, you will be absolutely confident in the pedigree and health of the future pet. Before purchasing, make sure that the offspring and mother are properly fed and kept in comfortable conditions. The first months in a dog’s life are the most important and they should be protected as much as possible from negative environmental factors.

Before buying, you need to understand: for what purpose are you getting a pet? There are three categories:

1. Pat is a class - dogs are only for home. They are not suitable for participation in exhibitions and master classes. This is the most budget price category.
2. Breed - class - individuals suitable for breeding puppies.
3. Show - class - animals for participation in exhibitions.

Before purchasing, you need to decide on your plans and tell a specialist or breeder about them.
Consult a dog trainer - he will help you choose a future champion.

However, it is worth considering that, even if you have an excellent pedigree and meet all standards, your pet may not become a star. However, this will not make him any less devoted to you.

When selecting a future pet for breeding, it is worth checking the pedigree - if the parents pass on their species to the pet, then most often the children will be capable of this.

Puppies for home are the most economical option. In appearance, he is practically no different from his “exhibition” colleagues. Only an experienced dog handler can determine the difference. But at the same time, you will spend a significantly smaller amount of money on the animal, and it will delight you no less than its eminent brother.

Choosing the sex of an animal is also a serious matter. Males are better suited for exhibitions. However, they have a tough temperament and are not as trainable as girls. Bitches also have their downsides. It is necessary to carefully monitor the animal during estrus to prevent unwanted pregnancy, however, even planned offspring will bring a lot of trouble to the owner.

When choosing the right puppy, the “first glance” principle works great.
If you like this or that individual in a pack of dogs, then trust your intuition.

Very often such spontaneously chosen dogs become the best choice . He should be bold and playful, not hide behind his mother's back and react to your presence.

What to do after childbirth ends

After the process is completed, the bitch is very exhausted and may not ask for food. Give your mother a drink using water sweetened with honey or weak tea. Do not use sugar so that fermentation does not begin in the Spitz's stomach. If the bitch asks to eat, give a small portion of fermented milk products.

Prepare a litter box so your dog can do his business. If she asks to go outside, carry her in your arms and limit her movement.

After giving birth, pay attention to hygiene. Wash the area near the vagina, stomach and area near the anus with a weak solution of potassium permanganate or furatsilin.

Watch your pet very carefully. If you notice the appearance of discharge that has an unpleasant odor, immediately contact your veterinarian - this may be a sign of the onset of an inflammatory process.

Possible complications

Your dog may experience the following reactions, which are considered normal after receiving the vaccine:

• lump at the injection site;
• apathy;
• loss of appetite;
• diarrhea;
• hyperthermia.

After 3-4 days, such complications should disappear. Otherwise, you will need to call your veterinarian.

Important! If an animal begins to have convulsions or vomiting a day after vaccination, you should immediately contact a veterinary clinic.

Attitude of the German Mini Spitz towards strangers

The German Mini Spitz shows distrust and wariness towards strangers. When meeting strangers, he often focuses on the behavior of the owner. He is brave, decisive and self-confident, thanks to which his guarding abilities are in no way inferior to large and strong dogs. Sometimes on walks, fighting Spitz dogs get into fights with large guard breeds.

So, this dog is suitable for people of any age, character and lifestyle. She gets along well with other pets and does not require large expenses for her maintenance, but she will need to be given a lot of time and attention.

You can find out more interesting information about the habits and character of the German Spitz by watching this video:

Owner reviews

Spitz is our first and favorite dog. We were very worried about how to make sure that the baby developed correctly. But, as it turned out, if you stick to the regime and ensure compliance with the standard, he will grow up healthy and beautiful.

We are already two years old. The girl is fully formed. We are planning to take him to the next heat. All that remains is to find the right boy.

This is our second Spitz. The first boy was fed natural food, but there was not enough time for the second. As a result, boys are different sizes. The one who ate natural foods grew larger.

Source

How many months does a Spitz grow?

Let's look at the main stages of a dog's growth and find out at what age a Spitz stops growing.
One of the parameters by which you can determine whether a dog is healthy is height. Therefore, it is important to know at what stage of life what height a pet should be, and to what age Spitz grow.

Little dog

The Spitz is fully formed at two to three years old, the development of bones and organs ends, and the puppy turns into an adult dog.