Colors

Pomeranian colors are as dazzling as the breed itself, ranging from classic orange and black to rare shades like Lavender and Beaver, each with unique traits. From fiery oranges and deep blacks to rare hues like Lavender and Beaver, Pomeranian colors offer more variety than most toy breeds. Each shade is not just a visual treat, but often carries its own story of genetics, grooming needs, and breed history. Whether you’re considering a classic orange sable or eyeing a rare chocolate merle, understanding Pomeranian colors can help you make an informed and meaningful choice—especially if you’re a passionate dog lover, breeder, or future Pom parent Recognized Pomeranian Colors: A Complete Overview The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepts all colors, patterns, and variations of Pomeranians. There are no disqualifications based on color, making this breed one of the most diverse in terms of coat appearance. What makes it even more fascinating is how colors are often linked with genetics, health, and sometimes price. The Pomeranian color chart includes solid shades like black, orange, and white. It also features Parti-color Pomeranian coats, sable variants, and stunningly unique options such as the Chocolate Merle Pomeranian and Wolf Sable Pomeranian. Many colors you see today are results of selective breeding over time. How Many Coat Colors Do Pomeranians Have? Pomeranians can appear in at least 25 recognized shades, and that doesn’t even count the mixed patterns. Some puppies are born one color and grow up looking completely different. For instance, a newborn orange may turn into a Cream Sable Pomeranian by adulthood, depending on its genes. Common colors include orange, black, cream, red, and chocolate. However, breeders and enthusiasts are especially drawn to rare Pomeranian colors like blue, Beaver Pomeranian, and Lavender Pomeranian (Isabella). These are not only less seen but often more expensive due to demand and limited availability. The Genetics Behind Pomeranian Coat Colors Color in Pomeranians is mostly decided by genes passed down from their parents. These genes tell the dog’s body how to create pigment—either black-based (eumelanin) or red-based (phaeomelanin). What makes things interesting is that even one tiny mutation in DNA can result in a completely different coat. What Determines a Pom’s Color? A single dog may carry genes for multiple colors. Sometimes, the dominant gene decides the outward appearance, while recessive ones stay hidden. That’s why a Blue and Tan Pomeranian may suddenly appear in a litter from two orange parents—it all comes down to genetic luck. Role of Dilution, Pigment, and DNA The color dilution in dogs happens when genes cause the pigment to lighten. That’s how you get a Lavender Pomeranian (Isabella) from a chocolate or blue background. The more diluted the pigment, the lighter the coat. However, some diluted dogs are also more prone to hair loss or skin sensitivity. Full Chart of Pomeranian Colors and Shades Color types fall under two categories: standard and rare. The AKC breed standard accepts both equally, but rare ones are less common in shows. Standard Colors from AKC and Global Breed Clubs Color Name Description AKC Accepted? Orange Most popular, can range from deep rust to golden Yes Black Jet black with guard hairs and undercoat of same color Yes Cream Pale orange, soft coat texture Yes Red Dark rusty tones Yes White Solid snow white with no yellowing Yes Blue Diluted black with gray tones Yes Chocolate Deep brown with self-colored pigment Yes Rare and Unique Pomeranian Color Variants Rare Color Notes Beaver Pomeranian Silvery brown with hazel eyes Chocolate Merle Pomeranian Mottled chocolate with pale patches Blue and Tan Pomeranian Steel-blue base with tan points Lavender Pomeranian (Isabella) Light gray with pinkish tint Wolf Sable Pomeranian Gray coat with distinct eye markings Extreme Piebald Parti Pomeranian Mostly white body with minimal colored patches Detailed Breakdown of Solid Pomeranian Colors Orange and Red Pomeranians These are the classics. The Orange Sable Pomeranian has orange hairs tipped in black, giving a shaded effect. Red Pomeranians, on the other hand, show a deeper, almost rusty hue. Their coats age gracefully, although sun exposure can slightly dull their shine. White and Cream Pomeranians White Poms are like snowballs—pure and elegant. They must be free of lemon or cream shadings to meet the AKC breed standard. Cream Poms can be born white but gain color with age. Their self-colored pigment should remain black on the nose and eyes. Black, Blue, and Brown Pomeranians Black Poms have solid pigmentation from nose to tail. However, if they get too much sunlight, they may fade to a reddish tint. Blue Poms are actually diluted blacks with steel-gray coats, making them visually striking. Brown Poms include chocolate and Beaver Pomeranian, each with its unique softness and hue. Lavender, Beaver, and Chocolate Coats The Lavender Pomeranian (Isabella) is a rare gem, formed when a blue and brown gene pair. This creates a soft lilac-grey coat. The Beaver Pomeranian has a taupe-like coat, often with hazel eyes. Chocolate Poms lean toward rich mocha and have brown noses, pads, and lips. Pomeranian Color Patterns Explained Sable Variants (Orange, Red, Blue, Wolf) Sable means black-tipped guard hairs and undercoat over a colored base. Orange Sable Pomeranian and Wolf Sable Pomeranian are two of the most striking examples. Wolf sable is identified by “spectacles” around the eyes, while orange sables grow lighter over time. Merle and Brindle Markings Merle coats are patchy and diluted with random patterns. The Chocolate Merle Pomeranian is a dazzling example. Brindle is less common but features tiger-like black stripes over a red or gold base, giving a wild look. Parti-Color and Tri-Colored Pomeranians A Parti-color Pomeranian has white as its base and patches of any other color. The Extreme Piebald Parti Pomeranian has mostly white with small color spots on the head or tail. Tri-colored Poms mix tan points on Pomeranians with the parti pattern. Tan Point Combinations (Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Brown & Tan) These Poms have sharp tan markings above the eyes, chest, and under the tail. The Blue and