Originating in Pomerania on the Baltic Sea, the Pomeranian was once much larger than today and used as a sled dog and then for sheepherding before becoming primarly a companion pet.  The breed reached Europe in the middle of the 1800's by which time it had been down bred substantially in size.  Today the Pomeranian is the smallest of the so-called Spitz dogs  and ranges in size up to 7 pounds and stands around 8 to 11 inches tall.  They have a soft, fluffy undercoat and a long straight overcoat and come in many different colors.  To keep them looking their best, consistent attention to their coat is required, particularly daily brushing.  The Pomeranian loves to be spoiled by their owners.  They are an intensely loyal and very sassy little charmer.  The Pomeranian doesn't need a great deal of exercise, since their short legs naturally provide them with more exercise than the longer legged breeds.  This makes them very suitable for apartment life, where many owners train them to use a litter box with papers, making it unnecessary for them to go out in inclement weather which they typically loathe.