One look is all it takes. That sweet little puppy face with its wolf-like features and inquisitive expression is almost impossible to resist. Most people’s first reaction is, “Aww! I want one!”
But is a Pomsky the right dog for you? Let’s find out.
Are Pomskies good Pets? Yes. Pomskies are generally affectionate, playful, loyal companions. They thrive with lots of attention, love, and exercise and will gladly participate in all family activities. They’ll typically get along quite well with both other dogs and children.
Is a Pomsky destined to be your next dog? Taking the time to research the breed first is important in a decision as big as this one. Relax. We’ve taken care of the hard stuff for you.
Things That Make the Pomsky a Great Breed
All dogs are special in their own way, and there are plenty of amazing breeds to choose from. So, what makes the Pomsky so wildly popular?
Temperament
When speaking of a Pomsky’s temperament, it’s important to consider the temperaments of this designer breed’s parents, the Siberian Husky and the Pomeranian.
Siberian Huskies tend to be friendly and outgoing and therefore don’t make the best watchdogs. Because they were bred to work in packs, Huskies usually get along well with other dogs and will need a strong “pack leader” (you).
They love to be an integral part of family life and are loyal companions. They do, however, need to be on a leash or in a secure yard when outdoors due to their love of running.
A Pomeranian is often described as being a big dog trapped in a small dog’s body. Like Siberian Huskies, Pomeranians are friendly and do well with other dogs, but they have a greater tendency to bark and are surprisingly good watchdogs.
These active little dogs are quite intelligent, bold, and active, although, after a vigorous playtime outside with their family, they’ll be content to snuggle up on the nearest available lap.
Typically, Pomskies are exceptionally friendly, easy-going, loving, and playful. They enjoy being the center of attention and will delight you with their silly antics and zest for life.
Regardless of which parent breed your Pomsky takes after, you’ll have an affectionate, intelligent, outgoing, friend for life who’ll be happiest when those he loves.
Fun Fact: Siberian Huskies like to keep themselves clean and will often groom themselves much as a cat would. If your Pomsky takes after his Husky family members, he’ll likely be a very clean, odor-free dog.
Size
Most Pomskies will grow to be between 20 – 30 pounds, stand between 10 – 15 inches tall at the shoulder, and measure between 12 – 17 inches long from the chest to the base of the tail.
Size can vary depending on the parents. We talk all about Pomsky size factors in this article.
A Pomsky is large enough that you don’t need to worry about accidentally stepping on him or the kids treating him like a toy, but is small enough to be well suited for apartment life or for smaller homes.
Pomskies and Families With Kids
Both Siberian Huskies and Pomeranians fit right in with family life, aren’t prone to aggression, and are typically good-natured and gentle with children, so you can generally expect the same from a Pomsky.
This playful, fun-loving breed will have no trouble keeping up with active kids. Full of energy and always up for some outside fun, Pomskies are ideal companions for kids, provided that the children have been taught to gently interact with dogs.
As with any dog, toddlers may easily be knocked over accidentally, so supervision is always recommended.
Important Considerations
Before jumping on the Pomsky bandwagon, there are some aspects of the breed that some might consider being negative that you should be aware of.
1. They’re Not Cheap
Pomskies are created via artificial insemination, an expensive undertaking. Their price tag usually reflects the time and money invested in the litter. On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000 – $4,000 for a Pomsky from a reputable breeder, though prices can vary a great deal.
2. Training is Essential
Like all puppies, Pomsky pups will need to be house-trained and taught basic commands right away. Again, it’s important to look at both parent breeds to know what to expect when training.
From their Pomeranian side, Pomskies may inherit some potty training difficulties, but they can be overcome with consistent effort, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcements.
Siberian Huskies are known for being independent and rather headstrong at times. Though highly intelligent, training can be a challenge, particularly for novice owners.
So, is it possible to train a Pomsky? Absolutely! You just need to put forth some extra time and patience (and have plenty of treats on standby at all times).
3. Early and Ongoing Socialization
The process of ensuring that your Pomsky reliably behaves appropriately in all situations and is comfortable, friendly, and confident with both people and other animals is known as socialization.
Exposing your puppy to as many new sights, sounds, smells, environments, people, and pets as possible will help your little guy grow up to be a well-rounded dog who knows how to properly handle himself in a wide variety of circumstances.
4. High Energy
While some Pomskies will be more laid back than others, most are quite active and will need plenty of playtime and at least one long walk per day. Though not a necessity, a Pomsky will enjoy a securely fenced backyard to run around and play fetch.
5. Need for Mental Stimulation
Pomskies can become bored easily, especially if they’re left alone for long periods. Providing them with a few interactive toys and puzzle games to challenge their intellect can help.
Taking them with you to pet-friendly stores and walking them in unfamiliar territory will also provide some much needed mental stimulation.
6. Newer Breed
This new crossbreed is still in the developmental phase, so standards such as size, temperament, and markings aren’t set in stone yet. You may wind up with a larger Pomsky than you hoped for or who inherits traits more heavily from one parent breed than the other.
7. Shedding
Pomskies do shed. There are several factors that influence the amount of shedding, such as genetics and overall health, and shedding tendencies can differ from dog to dog.
However, you can expect a fair amount of daily shedding from any Pomsky. Additionally, they’ll shed heavily in the spring and autumn as their body prepares for the change in weather.
8. Prey Drive
Like Siberian Huskies, some Pomskies love to chase small creatures. Of course, training and socialization can overcome this urge to some degree, and many Pomskies peacefully share their home with cats and other small pets, but potential owners should be aware that this behavior may be an issue.
9. Finding a Quality Breeder May Take Some Effort
Because of the Pomsky’s rapid surge in popularity, the number of breeders has skyrocketed. Some, unfortunately, are inexperienced or are only interested in profit. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true and breeders that pressure you to buy today. See our article on Pomsky prices for tips on identifying a quality breeder.
You Want a Pomsky… Now What?
Checking your local animal shelter or sites like Adopt-a-Pet.com and Petfinder may lead you to a Pomsky who’s waiting to be rehomed. Adopting an older dog has several advantages such as:
- You’re saving a life and freeing up space for other homeless pets.
- Chances are good that the dog is already potty trained and knows some basic commands.
- You’ll avoid headaches like the puppy teething phase.
- You won’t have to guess at what the adult temperament will be.
Tip: When looking to adopt a crossbreed, check with rescue groups for the parent breeds, in this case, Siberian Huskies and Pomeranians.
If you would rather bring home a Pomsky puppy, the International Pomsky Association, Pomsky Club of America, and the Pomsky Owner Association all provide lists of reputable Pomsky breeders who strive to improve the breed, establish standards, and produce healthy puppies.
Tip: Remember to steer clear of shady breeders who don’t put their puppies’ welfare first and of pet store puppies who most likely were purchased from puppy mills.
