Lavender Pomeranian: Guide: What Every Owner Should Know

ByPoem of Paws

A lavender Pomeranian isn’t a separate breed — it’s a rare coat color caused by a dilution gene acting on a chocolate base. These dogs are identical to standard Poms in temperament and size (3–7 lbs), but the color comes with specific health and grooming risks you need to understand before buying or adopting.

Before we dive in: This guide covers lavender Poms of all ages, but puppies under 6 months may not show early signs of color dilution alopecia. If you’re buying a puppy, you cannot rely on the visible coat to predict future problems. You must see parent health test results — that’s the only reliable verification right now.

What Makes the Lavender Coat Unique (and Risky)

The lavender color requires the genetic recipe dd bb — two copies of the dilution gene and two copies of the chocolate gene. This combination is rare, which is why some breeders charge premium prices. But that same dilution gene is linked to color dilution alopecia (CDA), a genetic skin condition that causes thinning hair, flaky skin, and bald patches.

The practical implication: If you’re choosing between a lavender Pom and a standard-color Pom, you are trading a striking appearance for a higher likelihood of lifelong coat management. CDA has no cure, only maintenance. If you prioritize a low-maintenance coat over a rare color, a standard orange or cream Pom is the safer bet.

Lavender vs. Standard Pomeranian: Quick Comparison

Factor Lavender Pomeranian Standard (e.g., Orange/Cream)
Price range $3,000–$6,000 $1,500–$3,000
CDA risk High – linked to dilution gene Very low
Grooming effort Daily brushing + medicated baths as needed Daily brushing, less skin sensitivity
Color rarity Very rare Common
Best for first-time owners? Only with extra time and vet budget Yes, with standard care

The Failure Mode: Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA)

CDA is the main health concern for lavender Pomeranians. Affected dogs develop thinning hair, flaky skin, and patchy baldness, especially on the back, ears, and tail. It’s not painful, but it can lead to secondary infections if ignored.

How to Detect It Early

  • Frequent shedding beyond normal seasonal molt – If your Pom is losing more coat than usual before age 2, check for CDA.
  • Dry, flaky skin that doesn’t improve with moisturizing – A telltale sign.
  • Patchy hair loss starting around the ears or tail – Common first spots.

If you see these signs, visit a vet for a skin scraping and possible biopsy. CDA can be managed with omega‑3 supplements, medicated shampoos, and careful grooming.

How to Verify the Genetics

Before buying, ask the breeder for a DNA test result showing the dd bb genotype. Reputable breeders will have this from a lab like Embark or Paw Print Genetics. Also request a CDA health test from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) — a breeder who can’t provide both is a red flag.

Realistic trade-off: Even with test results, CDA is not guaranteed to show — some dd bb Poms never develop it. But the risk is real, and the premium price does not guarantee a healthy coat. A $5,000 lavender Pom from an untested breeder may rack up higher vet bills than a $2,000 standard Pom from a health-tested line.

Daily Grooming Operator Flow

Use this step‑by‑step routine every day. It keeps the fragile lavender coat healthy and catches CDA symptoms early.

Step 1: Prep (2 minutes)

Set out your tools: a slicker brush (Hertzko self‑cleaning slicker works well), a greyhound comb (Safari brand), and a dematting spray (Isle of Dogs No More Tangles). Place your Pom on a non‑slip surface — a bath mat on a counter is fine.

Step 2: Checkpoint – Skin & Coat Scan

Before brushing, run your fingers through the fur from skin to tips. Feel for:

  • Dry, rough patches – possible early CDA.
  • Small bumps or scabs – could be folliculitis secondary to CDA.
  • Hot spots – damp, red, warm areas that need veterinary attention.

If you find any of these, stop brushing and note the area. Schedule a vet visit within the week if the issue persists beyond three days.

Step 3: Brush in Sections (5 minutes)

Common mistake: brushing from the skin down, which yanks out fragile hairs. Instead:

  • Start at the tips of the hair and work upward in short, gentle strokes.
  • Divide the body into quadrants (back, sides, chest, rear). Brush each section completely before moving on.
  • Use the slicker brush to remove loose undercoat. Follow with the greyhound comb to spot any tangles the brush missed.

Step 4: Checkpoint – After‑Brush Assessment

Run the greyhound comb through each section a second time. If it snags or pulls, apply dematting spray and work the tangle out with your fingers, then comb again. Look for hair coming out in clumps beyond normal shedding — a warning sign for CDA.

Step 5: Finish (1 minute)

Wipe eye corners with a damp cotton ball. Check ears for redness or waxy buildup. Clean with a vet‑approved ear solution (e.g., Virbac Epi‑Otic) only if needed. Give a small treat and praise. Positive reinforcement makes daily grooming easier.

Escalation Signals

Call your vet if you notice:

  • Bald spots that grow or merge over two weeks.
  • Raw, weeping skin in any area.
  • Excessive scratching or head shaking that continues after brushing.

Expert Tips for Lavender Pomeranian Coat Care

1. Use a moisturizing oatmeal shampoo every 3–4 weeks, not more often. Over‑bathing strips natural oils and worsens CDA symptoms. Avoid shampoos with harsh sulfates. A good pick: Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo for dogs. Common mistake: bathing weekly because the coat looks dirty — actually, a quick wipe with a pet-safe wet cloth is enough between baths.

2. Dry thoroughly after baths or damp weather. The fine lavender coat holds moisture against the skin, which can breed yeast. Use a low‑heat blow dryer on the cool setting, and brush gently while drying to prevent tangles. Common mistake: letting air-dry — that leaves moisture trapped near the skin for hours.

3. Feed a high‑quality diet with omega‑3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements (Nordic Naturals Omega‑3 Pet) can improve coat condition and reduce inflammation from CDA. Common mistake: relying on kibble alone — even premium brands may not provide enough DHA and EPA. Add a fish oil capsule daily (vet-approved dosage).

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Care Checklist

Save this as a quick reference:

  • Daily: Quick brush with slicker brush (2 minutes), check ears for redness, wipe eye corners.
  • Weekly: Full comb‑through with greyhound comb, nail trim (or grind), teeth brushing.
  • Monthly: Bath with moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, ear cleaning, anal gland check.
  • Seasonal: Extra brushing during heavy shed (spring/fall). Lavender Poms may shed less overall, but still need attention.

Finding a Responsible Breeder

Because lavender is rare, unethical breeders may market “rare lavender” Poms without health testing. Ask for:

  • Parent health test results – Specifically for color dilution alopecia, luxating patella, and tracheal collapse.
  • Proof of genetic testing – Both parents should be tested for the dd and bb genes. A reputable breeder will show you litter records.
  • The breeder’s contract – Expect a health guarantee and a clause that you’ll return the dog if you can’t keep it.

Verification step: Ask to see the OFA or PennHIP test numbers. You can look them up on the OFA website to confirm they’re real. If a breeder can’t provide these, walk away. The initial price may be high, but vet bills from CDA or other inherited issues can be far higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lavender Pomeranians recognized by the AKC?

Yes, they are accepted as a rare color under the AKC standard — but they cannot compete in the regular color classes in conformation shows because their color is not in the standard.

Do lavender Pomeranians have different personalities?

No, temperament is not linked to coat color. They are the same lively, smart, and alert dogs as any other Pomeranian.

How much do lavender Pomeranians cost?

Expect to pay $3,000–$6,000 from a quality breeder, sometimes more for show‑quality lines. Prices below $2,000 often come from puppy mills or backyard breeders.

Is a lavender Pomeranian a good choice for a first‑time dog owner?

They can be, but only if you’re prepared for the extra grooming and potential skin issues. The breed’s small size and moderate exercise needs make them apartment‑friendly.

Save This Guide – Lavender Pomeranians are stunning but demand informed ownership. Focus on health testing over color, master the daily grooming flow, and watch for early signs of CDA. A well‑cared‑for lavender Pom can live 12–16 years of happy lap‑dog life.

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