The smallest of the German Spitz-type dogs was known in some countries as Zwergspitz, or the “dwarf spitz.” Today we know the breed as the Pomeranian, and it’s hard to believe that this charming little dog had as its ancestors full-size sled and herding dogs that weighed as much as thirty-one pounds.

How they “shrunk” is attributed to Queen Victoria and her enthusiasm for smaller dogs. PomeraniansDogs she acquired on a trip to Italy in 1888 were selectively bred down to a toy size during the remaining years of the 19th century, and it was her Pomeranians shown in a conformation show that became the first “Poms” ever to be shown. The dogs lost size, but no “purse puppies,” these, Pomeranians are big thinking dogs who have retained the courage of much bigger dogs. Ooh Rah.

Image of Mrs Mary Robinson (Perdita) with a Pomeranian by her side by Thomas Gainsborough (1727–1788)