Description:
Guinness is a Pomeranian who somehow found himself in a kill shelter. How does an eight year old dog end up at a kill shelter? I'll never understand that ~ maybe I just over identify with my pets. I don't know. I just know that Guinness deserves better! He is a real fluffy guy and quite tiny. I think he must be part Chihuahua. Oh, in the video I keep calling him Shamrock. That's because we rescued Shamrock the Italian Greyhound on the same day and I got them twisted around in my head. Love me anyway!

Developed in the Prussian region of Pomerania, the Pomeranian was originally descended from the ancient Spitz breeds of the far north which were brought to Europe and employed to herd sheep. The Pom ancestors weighed up to 30 pounds. Marie Antoinette, Emile Zola and Mozart all owned Pomeranians. In the late 1800's Queen Victoria became a Pomeranian fancier, and established her own kennel for their breeding. She showed her dogs, with some success, making the breed very popular in England. Because Queen Victoria preferred smaller dogs, many breeders began selecting for smaller size. Now the Pomeranian has been bred down from his original size to customary 4-5 pounds. The Pomeranian's intelligence and talent for showmanship have also made him a superior circus performer. Today's Pomeranian is primarily a loving companion and beautiful show dog. Some of the Pom's talents include: watchdogging, agility and performing tricks. The Pomeranian is a lively little dog. Intelligent, eager to learn, very loyal to its handler and family. Willful, bold and sometimes temperamental. If it is properly introduced they usually get along with other dogs and household animals without any problems, but some of them seem to think they are much larger than they actually are and do not hesitate to attack much bigger dogs. It is an excellent watchdog with a resounding bark. Poms have a tendency to be reserved and bark at strangers excessively. Teach this dog early that it may bark a couple of times when the doorbell rings or when there are visitors, but then to keep quiet. Be very consistent about this. They are alert, curious and busy: one of the most independent of the Toy breeds. Poms have a delightful nature and do not cling to their handlers. Proud and happy, they are good at learning tricks, but need a firm hand. The Pomeranian must know the owner is the boss, or he will not listen. This breed may become too demanding if the owner allows it. Not recommended for very young children. Too much attention from children can make these dogs nervous and they may become snappish. However, they can get along well with older, well behaved children. It is a good companion for an elderly person. The Pom is a wonderful companion dog and show ring contender. The breed's docile temper and affectionate nature endear it to many. Its vivacity and spirit make it well-liked by persons who do not usually care for toy dogs.