Pomksy, A history!

The Pomsky is a fascinating hybrid dog breed that captures the hearts of many dog lovers.

The Pomsky breed first appeared in the early 2000s when breeders in the United States and Canada began experimenting with crossing Pomeranians with Siberian Huskies. The exact origins are uncertain, but it’s believed that the first documented Pomsky breeding occurred around 2009 in the United States.  

  • Pomskies are a mix of a Siberian Husky dam and a Pomeranian sire.
  • They have fun-loving, quirky personalities and thrive in family environments. They’re great with kids and other animals.
  • Their striking appearance combines the Husky’s wolf-like features with the Pomeranian’s fluffiness and elegance.
  • Original Pomskies began making an appearance around 2012 and gained significant popularity around 2014 as more breeders worldwide incorporated Pomskies into their programs.

Pomskies come in various sizes, and their size can vary based on the specific breeding and individual genetics.

TYPICAL SIZING

POMSKY SIZES/WEIGHTS

  1. Toy Pomskies:

    • These are the smallest Pomskies, typically weighing up to 15 pounds.
    • They have a height up to 10 inches at the shoulder.
    • Toy Pomskies are ideal for apartment living due to their compact size.
  2. Mini Pomskies:

    • Miniature Pomskies are slightly larger than toy Pomskies.
    • They usually weigh between 12 to 20 pounds.
    • Their height ranges from 14 inches at the shoulder.
  3. Standard  Pomskies:

    • Standard Pomskies are the largest in size.
    • They weigh between 20 to 35 pounds.
    • Their height is typically around 14 to 18 inches.

Average Lifespan:

  • On average, Pomskies live between 12 to 15 years. This estimate can vary based on factors such as genetics, environment, and overall care provided by the owner.

Characteristics:

  • Intelligence and Trainability:
    • Pomskies are intelligent but can be more stubborn when training than some other breeds due to inheriting temperaments from both parents.But the Husky is smart and intelligent and is a quicklearner
  • Temperament
    • Playful and Energetic

    • They love playtime, whether it’s chasing toys, playing fetch, or exploring the outdoors.
    • Intelligent and Curious

      • Affectionate and Loyal:

        • Pomskies form strong bonds with their families.
        • They love cuddling and being close to their humans.
        • Expect them to follow you around the house—they’re excellent companions.
      • Alert and Protective

        • Pomskies will bark to alert you of any unusual sounds or visitors.
        • While not aggressive, they’ll protect their loved ones if needed.
      • Social and Friendly

        • Pomskies enjoy meeting new people and other dogs.
        • Proper socialization from an early age helps them develop friendly behavior.
        • Temperament should be something your breeder looks for in their breeding stock and that they are able to tell you from their parents. 
      • They have moments of independence and prefer their space and do their own thing. This stems from the husky's side. 
      • Grooming:
        • Pomskies have double coats and their coats come in different types. 
      • Exercise:
        • These active dogs require at least a 20-minute walk in the morning and a longer one in the afternoon.
        • Engage them in one or two play sessions during the day.

      Health concerns:

      1. Patellar Luxation:

        • When the patella (kneecap) moves outside its normal groove within the femur (thigh bone), it’s called patellar luxation or dislocation.
      2. Dental Issues:

        • Pomskies are prone to dental problems and require regular teeth cleanings and daily tooth brushing.
      3. Eye Problems:

        • Keep an eye out for any signs of eye issues, as both Pomeranians and Huskies can be susceptible to certain eye conditions.
      4. Hip Dysplasia:

        • Hip dysplasia, a genetic condition, affects the hip joint and can lead to pain and mobility issues. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for managing this condition.
      5. Collapsing Trachea:

        • Pomskies may inherit a collapsing trachea, which can cause coughing and difficulty breathing. Avoid using collars that put pressure on the neck.
      6. Allergies and Skin Problems:

        • Both parent breeds are prone to skin irritations and allergies, so monitor your Pomsky’s skin health closely.

      Remember to provide your Pomsky with proper care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle to ensure a happy and healthy life! 

      Pomsky Coat Types:

        1. Woolly Coat:

          • The woolly coat is one of the most common types among Pomskies.
          • It’s thick, soft, and fluffy, 
          • These dogs have a dense undercoat with curly or wavy guard hairs on top.
          • Ideal for colder climates due to excellent insulation against the cold.
          • Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
        2. Silky Coat:

          • Silky-coated Pomskies have a smooth texture.
          • Their hairs are straight or slightly wavy and longer than those in the undercoat.
          • Shed less than woolly-coated Pomskies but still require regular grooming.
          • Brushing once every other day helps maintain their lustrous appearance.
        3. Plush Coat:

          • The plush coat combines features of both woolly and silky coats.
          • It’s soft, dense, and luxurious.
          • Pomskies with plush coats are comfortable in various climates. 
        4. Standard Coat:

          • The standard coat is a balanced blend between the woolly and silky coat types.
          • The standard coat is the shortest and is the "typical" husky coat. 
          • Even though the fur is short it is still double coated and soft. 
          • Pomskies with standard coats often have a striking appearance due to their balanced fur length.

        Pomsky Coat Colors:

        1. Black:

          • Solid black or black-and-white mix.
          • One of the most prevalent coat colors.
        2. Grey:

          • Ranges from light silver to dark charcoal.
          • Grey Pomskies have an elegant and sophisticated look.
        3. Red:

          • Warm, reddish-brown coat.
          • May be solid or have white markings.
        4. Sable:

          • Unique coat color ranging from light tan to dark brown.
          • Red Sable:
            • Combine reddish-brown hues with darker tips on their fur.
          • Sable Pomskies can exhibit different shades within the sable spectrum:
            • Some may have more black tips, resulting in a darker appearance.
            • Others may have lighter tips, giving them a more cream-colored coat.
        5. White

          • Rare but occurs.
          • Pure white fur, sometimes with black or grey markings.
        6. Blue (Dilute Blue):

          • One of the rarest coat colors.
          • Requires both parents to carry the recessive blue gene.
          • Often diluted in the coat, making chocolate the dominant color.
        7. AGOUTI

          •  different color bands along their length, creating a multi-colored or brindle-like effect.
          • Agouti is not common in Pomskies, but it can occur when both parents carry the agouti gene.
          • Their coat colors can range from tan to silver or grey.
          •  may also have white markings on their chest, paws, or face.
        8. Lavender Pomskies:

          •  a coat color that ranges from light to dark grey, often with a subtle shade of purple.
          • a genetic variation of blue Pomskies,
          • essentially a diluted form of chocolate or brown,
        9. Merle:

          • exhibit a marbled or mottled pattern.
          • Their coat can have a mix of colors, including grey, black, and white.
        10. Black and Tan:

          • Their black base coat is complemented by tan markings on specific areas like the eyebrows, legs, and chest.
        11. Piebald:

          • has white fur with patches or spots of any other color.
          • These patches can be large or small and can appear anywhere on the dog’s body.
          • As a result, piebald Pomskies have areas on their coat where there is no pigment at all.
          • The white patches on piebald Pomskies often stand out against their darker markings, creating an eye-catching contrast.

        WHAT EYE COLOR DO YOU THINK IS THE LESS COMMON OR RARER IN POMSKIES?

        •        A:  GREEN EYE COLOR IS RARE IN POMSKIES; ITS ACTUALLY THE RAREST COLOR IN DOGS, PERIOD. THEN IT WOULD BE PARTI-EYED. 

        Eye colors:

        1. Common Eye Colors:

          • Pomsky eye colors can vary from light hazel to piercing blue.
          • The vibrant blue eyes reminiscent of Huskies are quite common among Pomskies.
          • However, it’s also not uncommon to see Pomskies with brown eyes.
        2. Heterochromia:

          • Heterochromia refers to having different-colored eyes.
          • While it’s more common in certain dog breeds (such as Siberian Huskies), it remains relatively rare overall.
          • In Pomskies, heterochromia is considered a desirable and unique trait.
        3. Parti-Eyed:

          • Parti-eyed Pomskies have one eye or sometimes both were the blue eue will have mixed in brown or green with it, brandishing an eye with two colors.
          • Parti-eyed Pomskies are also relatively rare, but their striking appearance makes them sought after by dog enthusiasts.

        While heterochromia/parti-eyed is considered a flaw in many breeds, it is highly desirable in Pomskies.

        FACIAL / DISTINCTIVE MARKINGS:

        1. Blaze:

          • A blaze is a white stripe or marking on the forehead of a Pomsky.
          • It runs vertically between the eyes and can extend down the nose.
          • Blazes add a distinctive touch to a Pomsky’s appearance.
        2. Mask:

          • The mask refers to a dark-colored area around the eyes, resembling a mask.
          • It’s often seen in Pomskies and is reminiscent of the Siberian Husky’s facial markings.
          • The mask can vary in size and intensity, from a subtle shading around the eyes to a more pronounced dark area.
        3. Spectacles:

          • Spectacles are another eye-related marking.
          • They appear as a distinct ring of dark fur around the eyes, emphasizing their expressive gaze.
          • Pomskies with spectacles often have a captivating and intelligent look.
        4. Open Face:

          • An open face refers to a Pomsky’s facial markings where the base color of the face is lighter, allowing the eyes, nose, and mouth to stand out distinctly.
          • This creates a more open and expressive appearance.
        5. Full Blaze:

          • A full blaze is a broad, continuous white stripe that runs from the forehead down the nose.
          • It covers a significant portion of the face and adds a striking contrast to the coat color.
        6. Traditional Markings:

          • Traditional markings can include symmetrical patterns such as masks, spectacles, and blazes.
          • These markings are often seen in both Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies and are inherited by Pomskies  
        7. MUNKOWL or V-SHAPE:

          • White markings shape in the letter 

        8. Bars:

          • Some Pomskies may have bars within their mask.
          • These are additional dark lines or streaks that run across the forehead or down the nose.
          • Bars can add depth and complexity to the mask.
        9. Dirty Face/Wolf Faced:

          • Some Pomskies may have a “dirty face” appearance.
          • This term refers to a mix of light and dark markings on the face, resembling the natural patterns seen in wolves.
          • The result is a rugged and wild look.

        Pomsky Generations -

        Spitz Dog Breeds

        Akita Inu

        Alaskan Husky

        Siberian Husky

        Pomeranian

        Lapponian Herder

        Alaskan Klee Kai

        Mackenzie River Husky

        Alaskan Malamute

        American Akita

        Northern Inuit Dog

        American Eskimo Dog

        Norwegian Buhund

        Norwegian Elkhound

        Canaan Dog

        Norwegian Lundehund

        Welsh Corgi

        Chow Chow

        Laika

        Pungsan

        Eurasier

        Finnish Lapphund

        Spitz

        Samoyed

        Greenland Dog

        Shiba Inu

        Icelandic Sheepdog

        Keeshond

        Korean Jindo Dog

        • F1
          • A 50% Husky and 50% Pomeranian mix is typically achieved through artificial insemination of a female Husky with a male Pomeranian's sperm.  DOING THE OPPOSITE WOULD BE BAD FOR THE FEMALE'S HEALTH AND MAY LIKELY REQUIRE A C-SECTION.

        • F1b
          •  is a first back-cross generation dog, bred from a Pomsky and either a purebred Husky or Pomeranian.

        • F2
          •  Is when two Pomskies are bred to each other. Colors are more predictable, and size is more calculatable.

        • F2b 
          • A second-generation backcross puppy occurs when an F1 hybrid is bred with an F1b, resulting in a hybrid backcross.

        • F3 
          • Breeding an F2 Pomsky with another F2 Pomsky.

        • F4 or higher is the generation
          • The greater the number, the more generations of Pomsky-to-Pomsky breeding are present in the puppy's lineage.

        • F1X
          • When an 'X' is appended to the end of a generation name, it signifies the inclusion of another recognized Spitz breed, like the American Eskimo.

        • F2X 

          • SO THIS WOULD BE AN f2 POMSKY AND AN f1X POMSKY