I’ve always wondered what it would be like to own an Australian Shepherd and Pomeranian mix—a dog that’s both fluffy and full of energy. If you’ve been curious about this adorable crossbreed, you’re not alone. People often imagine what happens when you combine the brains of an Aussie with the charm of a Pom. The result? A lively, loyal companion that’s hard not to love.
In this post, we’ll explore everything about the Australian Shepherd and Pomeranian mix—from their personality and looks to grooming tips and daily care. Whether you’re thinking about getting one or just love learning about unique dog breeds, you’ll find all the answers here in plain, easy-to-read language
The Aussiepom is a designer cross of the Australian Shepherd and the Pomeranian, created to pair the Aussie’s working smarts with the Pom’s companionable size and charm. As a companion dog breed, the result is often an affectionate, alert, and energetic little canine that bonds closely with family members.
Expect wide variety: some Aussiepoms lean more toward the Pomeranian’s compact build, while others take after the Australian Shepherd’s structure and markings. If you’re researching specifically an australian shepherd and pomeranian mix, consider parent size (standard, mini, toy Aussie) and breeder lineage to predict adult size and coat.
Quick Facts
A typical Aussiepom falls roughly in the small-to-medium bracket: many sources list common height around 10–18 inches and weight from about 8–35 pounds, with a lifespan commonly reported as 12–15 years. These are ranges — individual dogs vary by parental genetics and whether the Aussie parent is a standard, mini, or toy variety.
If you’re searching for a specific variant such as a pomeranian toy australian shepherd mix or a mini australian shepherd pomeranian mix, note that smaller Aussie parents push size down and change exercise and grooming needs accordingly.
Breed History
The Aussiepom is a modern hybrid — not an ancient or standardized breed — born from crossbreeding the Pomeranian (a Spitz-type toy linked to northern Europe) with the Australian Shepherd (a U.S.-developed herding dog with roots in working flocks). Pomeranians were popularized in the 1800s by Queen Victoria, while the Australian Shepherd evolved in North America as a nimble herding partner.
Because this is a mixed/ designer cross (a pomeranian and australian shepherd mix or an australian shepherd mixed with pomeranian), there’s no single breed standard or AKC recognition for Aussiepoms — breed traits depend on parent lines and breeder selection. That said, the hybrid’s popularity has grown in the U.S. and Europe.
Physical Characteristics
Aussiepoms typically display a blend of features: a compact muzzle and sometimes fox-like facial features, a medium-length feathered tail, and expressive eyes. Coat patterns often show Australian Shepherd-like merle markings, tri-color combinations, or solid tones inherited from either parent.
Many owners describe the australian shepherd and pomeranian mix with a soft, medium-length double coat that sheds seasonally and benefits from regular brushing; grooming needs will vary depending on whether the Pomeranian or the Aussie genes dominate the coat type.
Adaptability
This breed is adaptable if given stimulation and company. A properly socialized Aussiepom can be happy in an apartment or a house with a yard — the decisive factors are daily exercise, mental challenges, and consistent training.
Be mindful: the aussiepom is generally social and forms close attachments, which can make alone time stressful if you leave them for long periods. Planning for company, dog walkers, or short daycare can prevent boredom-related behaviors.
Training tips for apartment dogs
Short, high-value training sessions help apartment Aussiepoms learn boundaries — teach quiet cues, crate routines, and leash manners early. Use puzzle feeders and indoor play to burn off energy without a large yard.
Because a australian shepherd and pomeranian mix often has a strong desire to engage with people, channel that focus into reward-based obedience and brief daily training bursts that reinforce calm behavior indoors.
Tips for first-time or novice dog owners
If you’re new to dog ownership, this mix can be forgiving — they’re bright and eager to please — but they also need consistency. For novices, start with short obedience lessons and a basic routine for feeding, potty, and exercise.
Choosing a mini or toy parent (for example, a mini australian shepherd and pomeranian mix) reduces physical size but not necessarily the mental stimulation required; plan for puzzle toys and training to avoid frustration.
Tips for leaving your dog home alone
Gradual departures, safe chew items, and enrichment toys reduce separation stress. Leave a piece of worn clothing for comfort and consider short practice absences that build tolerance.
If long absences are unavoidable, a pet sitter or midday break can help — many Aussiepoms suffer when left isolated because of their social nature, so preparation matters.
Safety tips for cold-weather breeds
Thanks to a denser double coat from one or both parents, Aussiepoms can tolerate cool weather reasonably well; still, watch for shivering in very low temps and keep walks moderate in heavy snow. Coat maintenance in winter prevents mats and trapped debris.
Smaller variants like a pomeranian and mini australian shepherd mix or toy crosses might need coats for very cold outings — evaluate your individual pup and adjust protective gear accordingly.
Safety tips for hot weather
Dense coats can retain heat; keep outings to cooler parts of the day, provide water, and avoid surfaces that burn paws. Never leave a dog in a parked car.
Grooming helps by removing excess undercoat, but avoid full shaving because a double coat still provides insulation and sun protection.
How To Know If A Dog Is Good With Families
Observe interactions: a dog that tolerates handling, remains calm around children, and enjoys family time is a strong candidate. Early socialization and positive introductions to kids are essential.
Aussiepoms are often described as a loyal family pet, especially when raised with children and taught respectful boundaries on both sides.
How to Know If a Dog Is Kid-Friendly
Ask about the pup’s exposures to children and seek evidence of calm, non-reactive behavior. If adopting, request a meeting in a controlled setting to watch reactions.
Smaller Pomeranian-influenced mixes may be less tolerant of rough handling; supervision and age-appropriate play rules keep kids and dogs safe.
Raising a dog-friendly dog
Prioritize positive socialization with people and other dogs during puppyhood, reward calm greetings, and provide predictable structure at home.
If you want an Aussiepom that greets guests politely, practice controlled introductions and reward relaxed behavior to reinforce a stranger-friendly temperament.
Raising a stranger-friendly dog
Invite calm visitors and encourage short, pleasant interactions. Puppies exposed to diverse, positive experiences are likelier to stay friendly as adults.
Avoid overwhelming your puppy; let them approach strangers on their own terms and reward curiosity and calmness.
Health And Grooming Needs
- Brush 2–3× weekly to prevent tangles
- Bathe monthly or when needed
- Trim nails every 3–4 weeks
- Clean ears regularly
- Provide dental care to prevent plaque buildup
Aussiepoms generally inherit a double coat grooming requirement: regular brushing (multiple times weekly) and periodic de-shedding during seasonal blows reduce mats and loose hair. Professional trims are occasionally useful but full shaving is usually discouraged.
Dental care is essential for this mix because Pomeranians are prone to plaque buildup and dental disease; daily tooth brushing and routine cleanings cut long-term veterinary costs. For a australian shepherd and pomeranian mix, combine coat care with consistent dental attention for best results.
Dealing with drooling
These dogs typically aren’t heavy droolers, but drooling can occur with excitement, stress, or dental issues. If you notice excessive drooling, check the mouth and consult a vet.
Keeping a grooming towel handy avoids mess after water bowls or playtime and helps you notice any changes that might indicate dental problems.
Recommended Screenings for General Health
Because crossbreeds can inherit conditions from either parent, consider regular wellness checks, dental exams, and eye screenings; discuss hip and joint evaluations with your vet if the dog shows stiffness.
A responsible breeder or rescue should provide health records for parent dogs and screenings they’ve done — always ask for documentation before purchase or adoption.
Ways to manage weight gain in dogs
Measure food, avoid ad-hoc treats, and match portions to activity level; mixing exercise with controlled feeding prevents slow weight creep. Use interactive feeders to slow consumption and make meals mentally engaging.
For a australian shepherd and pomeranian mix, monitor body condition monthly and adjust calories if activity levels change (e.g., after spay/neuter or during aging).
Mental stimulation for your dog
Mental workouts are essential for this hybrid. Rotating puzzle toys, agility games, and trick training keeps boredom at bay and reduces problem behaviors.
Include scent games and short obedience challenges daily; these “brain breaks” satisfy the Aussie’s drive to work and the Pom’s curiosity.
Dog biting and mouthing
Puppies explore with their mouths; redirect mouthing to chew toys and teach bite-inhibition through calm corrections and time-outs. Consistency prevents escalation.
Enroll in puppy classes if you notice persistent mouthing — early guidance helps both owner and dog form good habits.
How to address a high prey drive
If your Aussiepom shows chasing behavior, work on recall, impulse control, and structured outlets like lure games. Many Aussies have herding instincts that may appear as chasing in a small yard.
Avoid off-leash freedom in unsecure areas until recall is solid; enclosed spaces and supervised play keep wildlife-chasing under control.
Effective ways to deal with a vocal dog
Teach a “quiet” cue, reward silence, and provide sufficient exercise. Barking can be a sign of boredom, alarm, or reward-seeking — identify the cause to fix it.
For chronic noise, consult a trainer; positive methods outperform punishment when teaching reduced vocalization.
Safety tips for dogs with wanderlust potential
Keep fences secure and use microchips and ID tags; many hybrids are curious explorers and can slip through weak barriers. A GPS tracker is a useful peace-of-mind tool for adventurous owners.
Training solid recall and practicing boundary work reduces the risk of escape for the australian shepherd and pomeranian mix with a streak of wanderlust.
Exercise and training for high-intensity dogs
Aim for a mix of brisk walks and playtime: many Aussiepoms do well with 30–60 minutes of active exercise plus mental stimulation daily, adjusted for size and age. Agility, fetch, and obedience games are excellent outlets.
If you own a pomeranian mixed with australian shepherd or larger mini cross, increase play intensity and duration to match the dog’s energy — these mixes need consistent activity to be balanced household members.
Temperament, Personality
- Highly social and affectionate
- Very intelligent — quick learner
- Moderate to high energy levels
- Needs mental stimulation
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long
Health Issues
Hybrid vigor can help reduce some inherited problems, but Aussiepoms may still be predisposed to parent-breed issues: common concerns include eye disorders, patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), dental disease, and joint problems. Regular veterinary screenings help catch and manage conditions early.
Talk with your vet about breed-specific screenings and preventive care tailored to your dog’s size and lifestyle. Good record-keeping from breeders or rescues helps inform care decisions
Nutrition, Diet
Feed a balanced diet suited to size, age, and activity level; high-quality kibble or vet-recommended fresh diets work well. Calorie needs vary widely between a mini australian shepherd and pomeranian mix and a larger cross, so portion accordingly.
Divide food into two meals daily to avoid gulping and support steady energy; consider joint supplements for active dogs or those predisposed to hip issues after consulting your veterinarian.
Adoption, Breeders
If adopting, prioritize rescues or shelters and ask for behavior history and health records. If buying, choose ethical breeders who screen parents for genetic conditions and provide clear documentation.
A trustworthy breeder should discuss parent sizes (standard vs. mini or toy Aussies), temperament, and expected adult traits so you can evaluate if a australian shepherd mix with pomeranian fits your life.
Family Pet?
Yes — with training and supervision, this hybrid often shines as a family companion: affectionate, alert, and playful. Teach kids proper handling and include the dog in family routines.
Consider individual tolerance for noise and handling: smaller Pom-influenced crosses may need gentler interactions while growing up.
Right For You?
This dog suits owners who want a smart, slightly energetic companion that enjoys training and time together. If you can commit to daily mental and physical engagement plus brushing, an Aussiepom can be an ideal match.
If you travel often or are away long hours, plan for support — these dogs thrive on social contact and can develop separation-related stress if left isolated.
Conclusion
The australian shepherd and pomeranian mix blends herding heritage and toy-dog charisma into a lively, affectionate companion. With thoughtful breeder selection or rescue screening, consistent training, and routine grooming, an Aussiepom offers years of loyalty and entertainment.
FAQs
It’s often called an Aussie Pom, a playful blend of Australian Shepherd and Pomeranian traits.
Prices usually range from $500 to $1,500, depending on breeder, lineage, and location.
They’re smart, energetic, affectionate, and love being part of family activities.
Popular picks include the Aussie Pom, Aussie Collie, and Aussiedoodle for their intelligence and charm.
Yes—Australian Shepherds are famously devoted and form deep bonds with their owners.