A Pomeranian's fluffy coat is one of the breed's most loved features, but it needs regular care to stay soft, clean and free of mats. The good news is that you can do most Pomeranian grooming at home with a few simple tools and a routine your dog gets used to. This step-by-step guide covers everything from brushing and bathing to nails, teeth and ears.
What you need to groom a Pomeranian
- A slicker brush and a metal comb (wide and fine teeth)
- A gentle dog shampoo and conditioner
- A bathing brush to work shampoo into the dense coat
- Towels and a dryer with a cool or low setting, or a Pomeranian drying bag
- Small dog nail clippers or a nail grinder
- A dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste, plus a dental chew toy
- Rounded grooming scissors for trimming
- A stable, non-slip surface such as a grooming table
Step 1: Brush before the bath
Always brush out tangles before bathing, because water tightens mats and makes them harder to remove. Work in small sections with the slicker brush, lifting the hair and brushing from the skin outward. Then check each section with the comb. Pay extra attention to the areas behind the ears, under the legs, the chest and the "pants" on the back legs, where mats form most often.
Step 2: Bathe every 3–6 weeks
Use lukewarm water and wet the coat all the way down to the skin, which takes longer than you might expect with a double coat. Massage the shampoo in with a bathing brush, avoiding the eyes and ears, then rinse very thoroughly. Leftover shampoo can irritate the skin. Finish with a conditioner to make brushing easier.
Step 3: Dry completely
Towel-dry gently by pressing, not rubbing. Then dry the coat with a dryer on a cool or low setting, brushing at the same time to lift the hair and give your Pom that fluffy look. Make sure the undercoat is completely dry, because damp hair close to the skin can cause irritation and hot spots. A drying bag is a calm alternative for dogs who are scared of a noisy hair dryer.
Step 4: Trim the tidy areas
Pomeranians do not need a full haircut, and you should never shave the double coat. Instead, trim lightly for a neat look:
- Feet – trim the hair between the paw pads and around the paw for a round "cat foot" look and better grip.
- Ears – carefully trim the fuzzy tips to keep the ears neat.
- Rear – trim the hair around the bottom for hygiene.
Step 5: Nails, teeth and ears
Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks, taking off only the tip so you do not cut the quick. If you can hear nails clicking on the floor, they are too long.
Teeth: Small breeds like the Pomeranian are prone to dental problems and tooth loss. Brush your Pom's teeth daily if you can (at least several times a week) with dog toothpaste, and offer dental chew toys between brushings.
Ears: Check weekly for redness, odor or dirt, and gently wipe the outer ear with a dog ear cleaner when needed.
Step 6: Clean paws after walks
Mud, salt and grit stick easily to the fluffy hair on a Pom's feet. An automatic paw cleaner makes after-walk cleanups quick, especially in rainy or snowy weather.
How often should you groom a Pomeranian?
- Brushing: 2–3 times a week, daily during shedding season
- Bathing: every 3–6 weeks
- Nails: every 3–4 weeks
- Teeth: daily, or at least several times a week
- Ears: check weekly
Make grooming a happy routine
Start grooming sessions while your Pom is young, keep them short, and reward calm behavior with treats and praise. Over time, grooming becomes a bonding moment instead of a battle. Find everything you need in our Pomeranian grooming and health care collection.
FAQ
Should I take my Pomeranian to a professional groomer?
You can do most grooming at home, but many owners book a professional groomer every few months for a bath, trim and nail care. Choose a groomer who knows not to shave a double-coated breed.
What is the best brush for a Pomeranian?
A slicker brush combined with a metal comb works best for most Poms. The slicker removes loose undercoat and the comb finds tangles you might miss.
How do I remove mats from my Pom's coat?
Hold the hair at the base to avoid pulling the skin, then gently work the mat apart with your fingers and the end of a comb. Very tight mats should be removed by a groomer or vet.