Pomskies are awesome.  The cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky leads to a ton of great qualities:

• Pomskies are relatively small
• Very intelligent
• Affectionate
• and SUPER cute

However, there are some major drawbacks to the breed too.  With any new crossbreed, you can never be completely sure what you are going to get until the dog is full grown.  A Pomsky may end up being over 40 lbs and looking mostly like a Husky.  Or, they could end up under 10 pounds and looking suspiciously like a full-blooded Pomeranian.

Needless to say, this cross breed isn’t for everyone and you should do some serious self reflection before deciding if a Pomsky is right for you.

Pomskies are also VERY popular at the moment, it seems like everyone wants one.  Because of this, buying a Pomsky from a breeder can be very expensive.  Pomskies typically start at around $1,500 and can go for close to $10,000 if they have extremely desirable traits like blue eyes, brown/white markings, or smaller frames.

So, even if a Pomsky would be PERFECT for you, it may be that you just can’t afford to buy one.

For these reasons, a vast majority of the people who want a Pomsky, will end up having to find an alternative dog breed.

The very BEST place to find a Pomsky alternative is at your local animal shelter or on Petfinder. There are literally thousands of Pomeranian/Mix and Husky/Mix dogs waiting right now for their forever homes.  And many of them are super cute:

However, there are also other breeds that can make a great alternative to the Pomsky.  These breeds share many of the same qualities, are just as cute, and can also be rescued or purchased from a reputable breeder.

So, if you’ve been considering getting a Pomeranian/Husky mix, but there is some reason that has been holding you back, consider this list of the 13 top alternatives to a Pomsky:

Greenland Dog

Sometimes confused with their Husky relatives, the Greenland Dog displays many of the same physical characteristics of the Siberian Husky and Malamute.  Larger than most Pomskies, the Greenland Dog can get close to 100 lbs, and average just under 70 lbs fully grown.  However, what makes this breed attractive to potential Pomsky owners is their friendliness and temperament.

While still a working dog, the Greenland dog gets along well with children and can be a happy house dog.  Their intelligence makes they easy to train, but they do require a consistently firm hand and will push over a weak leader.

Very affectionate and happy, the Greenland dog will strongly bond with its owners and be a loyal companion.  Exercise is important though, and as a working breed they can become frustrated and destructive if left alone for long periods of time.  They make an ideal choice for rural settings or owners who have an active lifestyle.

Overall the Greenland Dog would make a good alternative for someone interested in a Husky side of a Pomsky, and not for someone who wants a lazy lapdog.

If you are interested in learning more about the Greenland Dog breed, check out this video from Human Planet.

Samoyed

If you love the cute pictures of smiling Pomskies, then you’ll really love the Samoyed.  Known for their “Sammy Smile”, these dogs always seem to look happy anytime they open their mouths.

Another breed that is used to hard work, the Samoyed doesn’t make a great pet for individuals who can’t provide them with the exercise they require.  Like the Greenland Dog, you should only consider the Samoyed if you wanted an active Pomsky.

However, if “high activity” is right up you alley, then the Samoyed might make a good Pomsky alternative for you.

Samoyeds are intelligent and easily trained, their barking can be excessive, but firm training can keep it under control.  Additionally, they have similar shedding patterns as a Husky, meaning that they shed A LOT.  Expect blowouts twice and year and picking up lots of hair.

Overall, the Samoyed rivals the Pomsky for cuteness, but should only be considered if you think you can handle the exercise and grooming needs of this breed.

For more information on the Samoyed check out some of the information at the Samoyed Club of America.

Japanese Spitz

Sometimes called the Mini Samoyed, the Japanese Spitz may make a perfect Pomsky alternative for anyone who loves the Samoyed look, but wants a smaller, less active dog.

Averaging between 10 and 20 lbs, the Japanese Spitz is about the same size and most smaller Pomskies.  And like the Pomsky, they get along great with young children and families.

While requiring less exercise than a Husky or Samoyed, the Japanese Spitz does still need a daily walk.  However, their small size makes them a great apartment dog, and having yard would be a nice option, but isn’t a requirement.

Similar to the Pomeranian side of the Pomsky, these dogs can be quite yappy and make excellent guard dogs.  However, their barking can become a problem if left unchecked. If you have lots of outside noise, or shared walls with loud neighbors, the Japanese Spitz might end up being a problem barker.

Proud and affectionate, this Spitz will match the Pomsky in loyalty and cuddle-ability.  Their beautiful white coat is also surprisingly easy to maintain, considering how dense and lush it normally looks.

Overall the Japanese Spits makes a great Pomsky alternative for anyone who is interested in a smaller, cute, fluffy, easy to train dog who can adapt to most living environments.

For more information on the Japanese Spitz, check out this article from a respected breeder Shannon Watherston.

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai might be the dog breed with the most in common with the Pomsky.  Another mixed breed that was formed in the last 50 years, the AKK is a smaller, Husky type dog with a much softer disposition.

Originally bred to be a smaller alternative dog to the Husky, the Alaskan Klee Kai has become one of the top companion dog breeds available.

As a combination of Siberian Husky, American Eskimo dog, and Schipperke; the AKK possesses some of the best qualities of each breed.

Shy and reserved, the Klee Kai makes a great family pet and will get along well with children who know how to play properly.  Similarly to the Pomsky, the Klee Kai will be wary of new humans and dogs, so consistent socialization through their life is important to keep them amicable.

Being so much smaller, usually around 10-20 lbs, the AKK requires less exercise than a Husky, and can make do on 20-30 minutes of high-intensity activity a day.

Unlike some of the other breeds on this list, the Klee Kai usually won’t develop into a problem barker.  So, if you are looking for a quieter alternative, maybe this is your dog.

Like the Pomsky, the Klee Kai does come in a wide variety of color variations.  Unfortunately though, they did inherit the heavy grooming needs of their parent breeds, and you can expect two full-blowouts a year.

Overall, the Alaskan Klee Kai makes a very strong case for being the top Pomsky alternative out there, and should be considered by anyone who likes the idea of a smaller Husky-like dog.

For more information on the Alaskan Klee Kai check out this Pros and Cons list from AlaskanKleeKai101.

American Eskimo Dog

A parent breed of the Alaskan Klee Kai, the American Eskimo dog makes a great alternative to a Pomsky due to it’s similar look, temperament, and size.  Sometimes confused from a smaller Samoyed dog, the small stature of this breed makes it a great option for apartment dwellers.  However, exercise is important for the Eskie, so lazy or busy owners can skip on ahead!

Affectionate and loving, the American Eskimo has a personality that mirrors that of a Pomsky.  They are eager to please and great with small children, making them an ideal family dog.

The breed is slightly larger than the average Pomsky, weighing up to 35 lbs, and can look even larger with their massive fluffy white coats.  Grooming is no cake-walk and you can expect year-round shedding and two major blowouts, one each in the Spring and Fall.

Another good watchdog, the Eskie can be counted on the alert you of any intruders.  However, they typically are not overly aggressive and rarely attack without being provoked.

The American Eskimo dog is also a highly intelligent breed, so training can be very smooth for the experienced owner.

Overall the American Eskimo dog can make a top alternative to either the Pomsky or the Samoyed.  If you love the personality and temperment of the Pomsky, but don’t mind the larger size of the breed, the Eskie might be perfect for you!

The learn more about this breed check out this Dog 101 video from Animal Planet.

Finnish Spitz

Rivaling the Pomsky in cuteness, the Finnish Spitz is an excellent alternative due to it’s similar sweet nature, disposition, and personality.

Originating in Finland (who’d of guessed?) the Finnish Spitz can weigh up to 35 lbs, making them closer in size to the Eskie than the Pomsky.  Additionally this large size does indicate that the breed needs more exercise and doesn’t work well in an apartment or inactive home.  If you don’t have time for at least one long walk a day, and preferably two, than the Finnish Spitz won’t work for you.

An independent breed, this former hunting dog will attach well with it’s owners, but be wary of strangers until they have bonded with them.  Their hunting ancestry also makes them serious barkers, and they will alert you of anything unusual with their incessant barking.

Like most northern breeds, the Finnish Spitz carries a double coat which requires an above average amount of grooming.  Expect to see frequent shedding and the twice yearly blow outs that accompany their luscious coat.

The Finnish Spitz does well in a family setting and gets a long well with children.  As long as you can meet their energy and exercise needs the Finnish Spitz can make a great Pomsky substitute.

For more information on the breed, check out this Breed Overview by the Finnish Spitz Club of America.

Finnish Lapphund

Possibly the breed most responsible for the creation of the Pomsky, the Finnish Lapphund might be the dog you originally fell in love with.  As puppies, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two breeds, but as they grow their physical differences become more evident.  Larger than even the biggest Pomskies, the male “Lappies” can weigh in at over 50 lbs.  Additionally their long hair around their neck and face makes them look as much like a Lion as a dog:

Similarly to Pomskies, Lappies come in a variety of colors: Black, Tan, Red, Brown, White Cream, and Sable.  Different litter mates can have different markings and colors, so a brother and sister may look very different as adults.

Exercise is important for the Lapphund, but not quite as necessary as other breeds.  Still, apartments don’t make good homes for Lappies and ideally they would have a large yard where they could get plenty of daily exercise.

An extremely smart breed, the Finnish Lapphund is easily trainable and excels in many competitive events.  Rarely a problem barker, unless ignored, the Lappy makes a great family pet and has a deep running streak of loyalty to his family.

Grooming is typical for their coat type and you can expect the normal amount of shedding and twice yearly blowouts that come along with the cold-weather breeds.

Overall the Finnish Lapphund is a fine alternative to the Pomsky for any owner who values a loyal, hard working dog and can handle their grooming and exercise needs.

To read more about the Finnish Lapphund check out the Finnish Lapphund Club of America.

Keeshond

As loyal as you could ever want, the Keeshond exceeds even the Pomsky in affection and devotion.  Sometimes referred to as their “owner’s shadow” the Keeshond is the perfect Pomsky alternative for anyone who wants to spend ever moment with their dog by their side.

Often trained as companion dogs, or seeing eye dogs, there was even a Keeshond at Ground Zero on 9/11 to help comfort the rescue workers and victims.

Their size is on the larger end of the spectrum however, and they can get up to 40 lbs.  This won’t, however, stop them from being a lap dog, and there are very few places they would rather be than curled up next to their human.

The Keeshond requires a moderate amount of exercise, and a daily walk will help to keep their energy down.  More importantly though, they need human companionship and can become a problem barker if left alone for to long.

Ideally an inside dog with an active family, the Keeshond does very well with children.  Nicknamed “The Smiling Dutchman” they warm up very quickly to new visitors but retain their loyalty to their owners.

The grooming needs of a Keeshond are similar to all other Spitz breeds.  Expect lots of shedding, especially in the Spring and Fall, and be prepared for lots of work.

So, if you want a super-companion and don’t mind a dog who’s a little clingy, the Keeshond might make a great Pomsky alternative for you.

The learn more about the Keeshond, check out this great article about owning a Kees from Chelsea Tomat.

Teddy Bear Dog

The only other truly mixed breed dog on the list, the Teddy Bear Dog can make a great alternative to owning a Pomsky.  A cross between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu, the Teddy Bear (aka Shichon or Zuchon) is a loyal companion dog who is rated similarly to the Pomsky in personality, exercise needs, and temperament.

Usually under 15 lbs, the Teddy desires, but doesn’t require, a daily walk (even one like this).  However, they do require lots of attention.  Unhappy when left along for long periods, they thrive in a busy household where there is always something going on.

Grooming a Teddy Bear dog is much easier than a Pomsky, or any other breed on this list.  Because they have hair instead of fur, Teddy’s don’t shed at all and just require trimming several times a year.  This also means they are “hypoallergenic“, making them ideal for the Pomsky loving allergy sufferer.

Alternatively, Teddy’s do require more attention and can become whiny and demanding when they aren’t properly exercised or attended to.  Additionally, they posses a stubborn streak which makes training a longer and more difficult process.

Exceptional watchdogs, a Teddy Bear dog will bark at even the perception of an intruder and usually won’t stop barking at a new visitor for a full minute.

Overall the Teddy Bear dog makes a great alternative to the Pomsky for an owner who is concerned about their grooming needs, is allergic to dogs, or can’t quite meet the exercise needs that a Pomsky requires.

To read more about owning a teddy bear puppy, check out this article from Mini Teddy Bear Puppies.

German Spitz

While the term “German Spitz” can be used to refer to several different varieties of dogs (including the Keeshond) for the purpose of this article we will be focusing on the Miniature Spitz version aka German Spitz Klein.

Slightly smaller than most Pomskies, the German Spitz can also come in a wide variety of color combinations.  Black, Tan, Cream, Yellow, and White are all possible color variations of the breed.  In fact, the lighter colored ones are frequently mistaken for a Pomeranian.

Socialization doesn’t come easy for a German Spitz, so it’s important their owners expose them to new people and other dogs frequently during their lifetimes.  Standoffish towards strangers, they strongly bond with their owners and can be fiercely protective guard dogs.

Due to their small stature, less exercise is required of a German Spitz than a Pomsky.  They’d make a great alternative to someone who desired a high amount of Pomeranian traits in their dog.

Grooming is surprising less intense than with most of the Spitz breeds.  Regular brushing can help you keep on top the the shedding, and proactive care can make the blowouts much easier to deal with.

Great with kids, the German Spitz makes an excellent family dog and is fond of cuddling up on the couch to take a nap next to their owners.

The German Spitz makes a great alternative to a Pomsky for any potential owner who wants a smaller, Pomeranian like Pomsky and doesn’t need the high energy levels and exercise needs of a larger dog.

The learn more about the German Spitz check out the FAQ page at German Spitz World.

Miniature Husky

Not officially a separate breed from the Siberian Husky, the Miniature Husky possesses all the same traits, but comes in a smaller package.  Labeled a “size variation”, the Miniature Husky usually weighs around 35 lbs or less.

Just like the Siberian Husky, this smaller version is bred to work and needs plenty of exercise every day.  An unattended to Mini Husky will become destructive if they don’t receive the exercise they need.

As a watchdog, the Husky fails miserably.  They are bred to pull dog-sleds and don’t care much about intruders or burglars.  They are just as likely to fall back asleep as they are to bark at a strange noise.  However, howling can be expected and a Husky in full howl can become irritating to an owner who values their peace and quiet.

Very intelligent, the Mini Husky is eager to learn and can be trained relatively quickly.  Tasks and tricks are easily learned and performed with excitement.

Grooming will be slightly more work than with a Pomsky.  The Husky sheds their coat out twice a year and you can expect moderate shedding year round.

Loyal and affectionate, the Mini Husky is a great dog around children and makes a terrific family pet.  Households with smaller pets should be wary though.  The Huskies high prey drive can cause it to naturally “hunt” smaller animals and it can severely injure or kill them.

Overall, the mini husky makes a great alternative for any individual who is attracted to the Pomsky because of it’s Husky type qualities and smaller stature.

To continue learning about the Miniature Husky check out this article from Pet Premium.

Norwegian Buhund

Active and energetic, the Norwegian Buhund is a high-energy alternative to the Pomsky.  Under 40 lbs, this Buhund is larger than most Pomskies, but still considered on the small end of medium sized dogs.  Coming in a variety of colors, the breed can be: white, black, tan, grey, red, or any combination of the colors.

As descendants from the dogs owned by the Viking warriors in Scandinavia, the Norwegian Buhund was used for companionship and protection, being fiercely loyal to their owners.

The breed is extremely intelligent and love to learn new things.  The absence of attention can lead them to become destructive, so this breed isn’t recommended for owners who don’t have an active lifestyle and/or time to dedicate to their dogs.

Norwegian Buhunds are extremely loving and affectionate, getting along very well with children.  They make an excellent family dog and have a gentle disposition, similar to the of the Pomsky.

Grooming a Buhund is similar to a Husky.  Expect twice yearly blowouts and some mild to moderate shedding throughout the rest of the year.

Overall the Norwegian Buhund is a great Pomsky alternative for anyone who desires a high energy, loyal, family dog that loves outdoor adventures.

To read more about the Norwegian Buhund check out this article from Best in Show Daily.

Conclusion:

There you have it.

A Pomsky is a great dog, but may not be the perfect dog for you.  If you are second guessing your decision, or just can’t afford to get one right now.  Consider the breeds listed above.  As you can tell many of them have a lot of the same personality traits, physical appearances, and temperaments.

If you still haven’t found your perfect dog, don’t despair, keep looking.  There’s millions of dogs out there that need good homes, take a visit to your local shelter to see some first hand.  I’m sure you’ll see some of these breeds there available for adoption today.

Always remember, there is no such thing as the “perfect dog”.  But there is such a thing as the “perfect dog for you”.