Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) vs Pomeranian

Choosing between Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) and Pomeranian? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Pomeranian is the higher-energy of the two, while Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) vs Pomeranian: full comparison

TraitChihuahua (Smooth Coat)Pomeranian
SizeVery SmallVery Small
Energy levelMediumHigh
TrainabilityMediumMedium
FriendlinessMediumMedium
Good with childrenLowLow
Grooming needsVery LowVery High
SheddingMediumVery High
BarkingVery HighVery High
ProtectivenessHighHigh
AdaptabilityHighHigh
Typical lifespan15 years13 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) is a toy-sized companion that slots into a studio flat without trouble and travels almost anywhere with you. By comparison, the Pomeranian is a toy-sized companion that slots into a studio flat without trouble and travels almost anywhere with you. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) thrives on daily walks plus a bit of active play. The Pomeranian needs real exercise every single day to stay balanced. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) is very easy to groom — an occasional brush is all it takes and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. The Pomeranian is high-maintenance to groom, needing regular professional grooming and daily brushing and drops hair heavily in every season. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, is highly vocal, which matters in a flat or a terraced house and can live with children but needs careful, supervised introductions. The Pomeranian picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, is highly vocal, which matters in a flat or a terraced house and can live with children but needs careful, supervised introductions. On guarding instinct, Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) keeps a watchful eye and is protective of home and family, whereas Pomeranian keeps a watchful eye and is protective of home and family.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) if you prefer lower grooming upkeep, you want less shedding around the home, or you want a longer-lived breed.

Choose the Pomeranian if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure.

Not sure which breed is right for you?

Take the free DoggyQ quiz and get a personalised match from 300+ breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences — in about 2 minutes.

Find your perfect match

Frequently asked questions

Is the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or the Pomeranian better for families with children?
Both the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) and the Pomeranian are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or the Pomeranian?
The Pomeranian sheds more than the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat). If shedding is a concern, the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or the Pomeranian?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or Pomeranian bigger?
Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) and Pomeranian are a similar size (Very Small).
Which barks more, Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or Pomeranian?
Both bark a similar amount (very high).
Which is better for apartment living, Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) or Pomeranian?
For apartment or flat living, Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

Related guides