In light of the controversial subject regarding the development of an eighth group, the Spitz Group, and more specifically the inclusion (or exclusion) of the Pomeranian in this Group, this article will shed some light on the capabilities of this diminutive breed.
Early history has one group of dogs being derived mainly from the northern wolf huskies, Samoyed, chows, Pomeranians, elkhounds, collies, Alsatians, corgies, schipperkes and terriers. This particular group of dogs were domesticated and trained for the work required of them, while accompanying traders of the Scandinavian countries to the north of Pomerania and in East Germany where the Pom originated. The Pom was specifically mentioned as belonging to this northern group and today remains as a representative of the northern group sometimes classified as Spitz dogs.
I believe there is an inherent need to work bred in these little guys and busy dogs are happy dogs. Activities that keep their minds and bodies in shape are important. In no way do I mean to say these little dogs are capable of running the Iditarod, or winning
an all-breed endurance test. Many Poms are active in agility, earning the same titles that are earned by their larger cousins. Obedience is popular also. Carting is fun, however, the pulling weight that is part of competition is too heavy for the little ones, making carting titles unavailable for the smaller Poms. Some of them can run like the wind and do well in flyball. Poms make wonderful therapy dogs, loving the attention heaped on them by the many residents of nursing homes that are visited.
Correct conformation is of the utmost importance. Poor structure or health concerns will naturally prevent the Pom from performing well, and should not be shown in the conformation ring either.
Safety has been cited as the main reason for excluding the Poms from the Spitz Group. Safety is an issue every time an entry form is completed and you step on the show grounds. Safety is an issue every time you put a leash on your dog and step out of your yard to go for a walk. It is every owners responsibility to be diligent in watching out for the safety of their dog whether it be in a show ring, or on the street. While in the ring, it is the ring stewards jobs, as well as the judge to be watchful for potential trouble, making certain aggressiveness is not tolerated by any dog be it large or small. Safety is not an issue in my opinion.
With the inclusion of so many more breeds from time to time in The Canadian Kennel Club, some of the groups are becoming too large, and by the formation of an 8th group, the Spitz Group, this will alleviate some of the crowding in the rings.
I know that our judges are very capable of judging the various breeds, and being fair to each and every one of them. There will be no worry that a judge will be unable to judge such a variety with all dogs being judged against their own standard.
I realize this little breed is a toy. However, it is a Spitz by history, by nature, and by appearance. When we allow them the luxury of appearing in their beautiful double coats which sometimes is not the case. A Spitz Group without the Pom would be an incomplete Group.
This is my own opinion, and I am very aware that it is in the minority. I sincerely hope that no one, after reading this, will think that I would ever jeopardize the safety of any one of my dogs. Their safety is uppermost in my mind, having just entered one of my boys in obedience trials. I was very watchful of the dogs around us, while in the ring, in any of the corridors, or in the exercise areas.
Anyone whose mind has not already been made up, I sincerely hope this article will give you something to think about an 8th group a Spitz Group - it most definitely will not come into being overnight.
Roberta Malott rmalott1@ciaccess.com
Pondside Toys
P O Box 908
Blenheim On N0P 1A0
