Common Health Risks in Pomskies

"At this time, Pomskies are considered a generally healthy breed. However, this doesn’t mean they are free from potential health issues — it’s simply too early to know for sure. Pomskies are a relatively new hybrid breed, first developed in the early 2010s, so we are still within the first few generations. As responsible breeders and owners, it's our duty to monitor, report, and reduce health issues as they emerge.

⚠️ Why Long-Term Monitoring MattersDr. Shaw, a veterinarian at West Side Pet Hospital in Oregon, emphasizes the importance of vigilance in early generations:

“The best advice is for breeders to be vigilant in monitoring any genetic abnormalities that show up in the offspring and remove their parents from the bloodlines. Good breeders who notice congenital problems in their pups will alter them.”

🧬 What Health Issues Might Pomskies Inherit?Because Pomskies are a mix of Pomeranian and Siberian Husky, they can potentially inherit hereditary health conditions from both parent breeds.

🐕‍🦺 From the Siberian Husky Side

-Hip Dysplasia

-A malformation of the hip socket causing painful joint arthritis

-Develops early in life; worsens with age and activity

-Rare in Huskies (only 2.2% affected), but still a potential risk

-Eye Conditions

-Juvenile Cataracts – early cloudiness in the eye lens, possible blindness

-Corneal Dystrophy – hazy or crystalline eye opacity

-Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – gradual vision loss leading to blindness

We're committed to promoting the health and longevity of the Pomsky breed. Through DNA testing, vet partnerships, and careful selection, we aim to give each family a happy, healthy new member.

🐶 What This Means for You

Although Pomskies have shown great overall health so far, it's essential to:

Choose a breeder who health tests all breeding dogs (we do!).

Stay educated on potential inherited conditions.

Keep up with routine vet checkups and health screenings.

Consider pet insurance to help manage any future medical costs (as long as conditions are not pre-existing).

🐩 From the Pomeranian Side Hip Dysplasia

-As with Huskies, Pomeranians are also at risk for hip dysplasia.

-Luxating Patellas

-Kneecaps that slip out of place, causing limping or discomfort

-Hypothyroidism

1) Underactive thyroid, leading to weight gain, skin issues, and lethargy

2) Easily diagnosed with a blood test

-Severe Hair Loss Syndrome (Black Skin Disease)

1) Mostly affects males

2) May begin after shedding the puppy coat or later in adulthood

3) Often inherited, so checking parent dogs is important

-Collapsing Trachea

1) Characterized by a dry, honking cough

2) Can cause serious breathing problems

3) Diagnosed via x-ray and treated with medication"

-POA

-Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia — or low blood sugar — is a common health concern in toy and small-breed puppies, including Pomeranians. It can also occasionally affect Pomskies, particularly the smaller ones or those with a higher percentage of Pomeranian genetics.🐶 Why Are Small Dogs at Risk?Smaller dogs have tiny energy reserves, and their fast metabolism burns through glucose (sugar) more quickly than larger breeds. When they go too long without food, experience stress, or become chilled, their blood sugar can drop rapidly, leading to hypoglycemia. ⚠️ Signs of Hypoglycemia Watch closely for the following early symptoms:

-Weakness or lethargy

-Trembling or shakiness

-Disorientation or glassy eyes

-Unsteadiness or wobbly walking

-Pale gums

-Sudden crying or whining

-Seizures (in severe cases)

-Unresponsiveness or fainting

Note: Hypoglycemia can come on quickly and is considered a medical emergency if untreated.

🛡️ How to Prevent It-Frequent, small meals – especially for puppies under 4 months old

-Always feed before playtime or travel

-Keep the puppy warm and limit stress (especially after going home)

-Avoid overexertion

-Consider offering a small snack before bedtime

💊 What to Do If It Happens-If your puppy shows early signs of hypoglycemia:

1) Stay calm.

2) Rub Karo syrup, honey, or Nutri-Cal on their gums (never force them to swallow).

3) Keep them warm and monitor closely.

4) Contact your vet immediately — even if they seem to recover.