Skip to main content

What you need to know about Pomskies before you get one

Have you heard designer dog enthusiasts talk about Pomskies? If so, you’re probably wondering, “What is a Pomsky dog?” We’re here to keep you in the loop. A Pomsky is a relatively new (and fairly rare) crossbreed between two of our favorites: the Siberian husky and the Pomeranian. While they’re not recognized by the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club, we’re keeping our fingers crossed for these adorable pups.

A brief history of Pomskies

A blog post in 2011 featuring images of adorable puppies purported to be Siberian husky and Pomeranian mixes went viral and caused the internet to squeal in collective delight. Although the puppies in question were actually Finnish Lapphund puppies, not Pomskies, breeders made it happen.

The size difference between the breeds makes natural breeding impossible. Thanks to modern science, breeders used artificial insemination, and the Pomsky was born. Pomskies are high-energy, fiercely intelligent, and loving dogs, but they are predisposed to issues that plague their parents. Issues range from minor (year-round shedding) to severe (collapsed tracheas and heart disease).

A blue-eyed, black and white Pomsky puppy.
Julissa Helmuth from Pexels

What do Pomskies look like?

Given their mixed parentage, Pomskies vary widely in appearance, though not size. Depending on whether their Pomeranian or husky genetics are dominant, they can resemble miniature huskies or take after the Pom side of the family. Pomskies may be long or short, and their height varies from 10 to 15 inches on average. They typically weigh around 20–30 pounds, making them ideal for small homes, townhouses, and apartments.

Some Pomskies have the traditional husky gray-and-white, black-and-white, or red-and-white coloring, but they are also found in blue and white, shades of brown and tan, and even pure white or black like Pomeranians. Pomskies most often have the markings and coloring of a husky with a Pomeranian’s dense, fluffy coat. Pomsky puppies from the same litter may vary dramatically, with some resembling tiny huskies and others looking like blue-eyed Poms.

Their eye color varies a lot, too. You’ll commonly find the vibrant blue husky eye color, but they can sometimes have brown eyes. Another unusual trait found in many Pomskies is heterochromia — called bi-eyes or parti-eyes in dogs — meaning one eye is blue and the other is brown, or one eye contains both blue and brown pigment. Fun fact: While it’s considered a flaw in many breeds, heterochromia is a highly desirable trait in Pomskies.

Four tan Pomeranian puppies.
Svetlana Ruskova from Pexels

What to expect from a Pomsky

Despite being a relatively rare crossbreed, Pomskies have taken social media by storm thanks to their plush coats and adorable faces. These high-energy lapdogs have an average life expectancy of 13–15 years. To stay healthy and happy, Pomskies need about an hour of exercise a day. Fortunately, they’re small dogs, so they don’t require a massive yard to stay fit.

Since Pomskies are crossbreeds, there isn’t a breed standard for their temperament. As with their appearance, Pomskies may take after the Siberian husky or the Pomeranian parent in their behavior. Luckily, Pomeranians and huskies have similar temperaments. Both breeds are intelligent, loyal, loving, and affectionate, traits that are commonly passed down to these precious hybrid pups.

If you’re looking for a talented watchdog, but you don’t have a ton of space, a Pomsky is a fantastic option. With the protective instincts of their husky genetics, Pomskies are fierce defenders of their homes — and their humans. While Pomskies are amiable pooches who generally love everyone in their household, they’re often loyal to their favorite human above all.

Things to consider before you get a Pomsky

While we love these adorable pups, they’re not for everyone. It’s important to note that huskies and Pomeranians are both prone to barking and yapping. You can train dogs to bark less, but the noise level is definitely something to bear in mind if you live in an apartment with thin walls or have roommates who can’t tolerate noisy animals.

Like Pomeranians, Pomskies are often shy around small children, so they may not be the best bet if you have young kids. Pomskies also may not be the best companions for excitable older children. Because of their high intelligence and stubborn streak, Pomskies need calm, firm leadership, so they’re best suited to people with assertive, even temperaments.

A Siberian Husky puppy on snow.
Pixabay from Pexels

Final thoughts

Like their parents, Pomskies are clever, playful, and affectionate dogs, but they can be a handful if you’re not prepared. They need frequent exercise, daily grooming, and a firm hand during training. If you’re patient and experienced with dogs, a Pomsky may be the perfect addition to your household.

Editors' Recommendations

Mary Johnson
Contributor
Mary Johnson is a writer and photographer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Her work has been published in PawTracks and…
How much should newborn puppies eat? Follow this feeding chart
Here's what you need to know about feeding newborn puppies
Bottle feeding a newborn puppy

Having newborn puppies around can be such a gift, but there's also a lot of work involved. You need to keep their enclosure clean, make sure they're fed, and stay on top of their health in a multitude of ways. Luckily, we're here to help you navigate your newborn puppies' feeding routine.

Whenever possible, newborn puppies should consume their mother's nutrient-rich milk, which helps protect them from illness while their immune systems develop. It's the perfect food for them! However, it's not always possible for a mama dog to feed her litter all by herself.

Read more
How much should a kitten weigh? Here’s what the experts have to say about the kitten weight chart
Does my kitten weigh enough? Experts reveal the optimal weight
Three tabby kittens snuggling in a gray cat bed.

Being responsible for a newborn kitten is a daunting task, but it's also an exciting and rewarding experience. Kittens go through some of their most impressive growth spurts during the first 12 weeks of life. But is your kitten hitting all the right milestones? Just like with human babies, there's a kitten weight chart they should reach at certain points in their growth process. Steady weight gain, opening their eyes at the right time, and increased socialization with littermates are all indications that your kitten is on the right track.

But how much should a kitten weigh at each stage of development? We've consulted the experts to find out the optimal weight goals for your kitten. We're here to share everything you need to know about the ideal kitten weight by age, what you should know about caring for kittens every step of the "weight," and when you should contact your vet for assistance.

Read more
5 must-see, dog-friendly places in New York to visit this fall
New York provides the perfect escape for you and your pup
Dog with human and orange suitcase

Without question, fall is one of the prettiest times of year on the East Coast. Nature puts on quite a display as the sugar maples change color, dotting the landscape with brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange. The weather is cooler, too, making it a great time of year for the whole family to plan a getaway and explore this annual phenomenon up close and personal.

Which East Coast state should you visit? We recommend New York, mainly because accommodations, parks, and attractions welcome your four-legged family members, too. No matter what part of the state you choose to explore, these dog friendly places in New York are fantastic to visit with your pet.

Read more