The Pomeranian duck is a breed of domestic duck originating in Germany. As the name suggests, the breed was developed from Pomerania, a baltic sea coast region in Germany.
Like some other northern European duck breeds, such as the Shetland duck and Swedish Blue duck, the Pomeranian duck also share the same ancestors. It is a landrace and found on the home farms in the pomerania district in the north-eastern part of Europe, on the border of Germany and Sweden.
The Pomeranian duck is also known by some other names such as Pommern and Pommernente in German. The Swedish Blue, Shetland and Pomeranian duck all were originated form the coastal areas of Sweden, Germany and Holland.
The color of the Pomeranian duck is much of the attraction today. But the breed was not only developed for their beauty but also for their uses as a good dual purpose duck. Today they are mainly kept as an utility bird and used for both meat and eggs production.
Pomeranian Duck Characteristics
Pomeranian duck is classed as a medium sized bird. It has a fairly long body. But their body is broad and deep and carries itself more horizontally to the ground. The breed is categorized as frivolous duck breed and they come in two special colors, such as Black and Blue.
The Black variety appears with the white colored bib and has a green shine over it’s black colored plumage. And the Blue variety is chiefly a striking bird with it’s flat light blue color plumage and white color big patch on upper breast. They have dark beaks, preferably black. Their feet are dark and the eyes are dark brown.
Like most other duck breeds, the Pomeranian drakes are heavier than the ducks. Average body weight of these ducks is about 2.5 kg and the drakes weight about 3 kg. Photo from Wikipedia.
Uses
Pomeranian duck is a dual purpose duck. They are raised for both meat and eggs production. Sometimes they are also raised for enhancing the beauty of the backyard.
Special Notes
The Pomeranian ducks are fairy social and chatty. Some ducks are passive and some are very aggressive. These ducks make superior watch birds, as they are inclined to welcome visitors loudly. They are excellent foragers.
The ducks are not among the best egg laying duck breeds. They lay about 70-100 eggs per year. And the color of the eggs is white or greenish. The breed is pretty rare today. However review full breed profile of this duck breed in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Pomeranian |
| Other Name | Pommern and Pommernente in German |
| Breed Purpose | Dual Purpose |
| Special Notes | Excellent Foragers |
| Breed Class | Medium |
| Broodiness | Average |
| Drake | 3kg |
| Duck | 2.5 kg |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates |
| Egg Color | White/Greenish |
| Egg Size | Large |
| Egg Weight | 80-90 grams |
| Egg Productivity | Low |
| Flying Ability | Poor |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Varieties | Black & Blue |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
Pomeranian Duck Facts
Here are some of the most interesting facts about this duck breed.
- Pomeranian ducks are also known as the German Pomeranian duck or Pommernente in German. They were first bred in the Pomerania region of Germany, hence their name.
- These ducks are relatively small, and they are one of the smallest breeds of domesticated ducks. Adult Pomeranian ducks typically weigh between 1.2 to 1.6 kilograms.
- Pomeranian ducks have a unique appearance. They have a round and compact body with a short neck and a small head. They have a distinct coloration with black, brown, and white feathers.
- These ducks are highly adaptable to different climates and can survive in harsh conditions. They can tolerate cold temperatures and can live in regions with extreme weather conditions.
- Pomeranian ducks are highly sociable and have a friendly and curious personality. They love to interact with humans and other animals and are known for their playful nature.
- Pomeranian ducks are excellent egg layers and can lay up to 200 eggs in a year. Their eggs are small in size and have a white or cream-colored shell.
- These ducks are relatively low maintenance and are easy to take care of. They require a diet of grains, vegetables, and fruits, and access to fresh water.
- Pomeranian ducks have a unique quack that is different from other duck breeds. Their quack is high-pitched and sounds more like a whistle than a traditional duck quack.
- These ducks are excellent swimmers and love to spend their time in water. They have webbed feet that help them swim faster and more efficiently.
- Pomeranian ducks have a long lifespan, and they can live up to 10 to 12 years if taken care of properly.
- Pomeranian ducks are not very vocal, and they make very little noise, making them an excellent choice for urban households.
- These ducks are relatively easy to breed, and they can breed naturally or through artificial insemination.
- Pomeranian ducks are monogamous and pair for life. They are known for their loyalty to their mates and can become depressed if separated.
- These ducks are excellent foragers and love to search for food on their own. They can eat insects, snails, slugs, and other small animals.
- Pomeranian ducks are relatively rare, and their population is declining. They are considered a threatened breed by the Livestock Conservancy, and efforts are being made to preserve them.
- These ducks are excellent mothers and are known to be protective of their young. They build nests on the ground and lay their eggs in them.
- Pomeranian ducks have a unique feather pattern that makes them stand out from other duck breeds. They have a dark brown or black head, neck, and tail feathers, with white or cream-colored feathers on their body.
- These ducks are intelligent and can recognize their owners’ faces and voices. They can also learn to perform tricks and respond to commands.
- Pomeranian ducks are hardy and can withstand different weather conditions. They are resistant to common duck diseases and do not require regular vaccinations.
- These ducks are relatively active and love to play and explore. They require ample space to move around and exercise.
- Pomeranian ducks are relatively rare in the United States, and they can be challenging to find. Breeders who specialize in Pomeranian ducks may be the best source to find them.
- These ducks are not commonly used for meat production due to their small size, but their meat is considered to be of high quality.
- Pomeranian ducks are excellent pets and can make great companions. They are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners.
- These ducks are relatively calm and do not require a lot of attention. They can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Pomeranian ducks are a unique and delightful breed that offers many benefits to their owners. They are easy to take care of, friendly, and sociable, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a new pet.
Tips for Raising Pomeranian Duck
Raising Pomeranian ducks is very easy and simple for those who want to keep these charming and sociable ducks as pets. These ducks have a unique personality and are relatively easy to take care of.
However, there are specific tips and guidelines that you should follow to ensure that your Pomeranian ducks are happy, healthy, and well-cared for. Here are the top tips for raising Pomeranian ducks.
Provide a safe and secure living space: Pomeranian ducks need a safe and secure living space to thrive. They require a dry and comfortable shelter with proper ventilation, lighting, and heating.
Ensure adequate space: Pomeranian ducks require ample space to move around and exercise. A minimum of 10 square feet per duck is recommended.
Keep their living area clean: It is essential to keep the living area of your Pomeranian ducks clean and hygienic. Regular cleaning and disinfecting will help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and parasites.
Provide fresh water: Pomeranian ducks need access to clean and fresh water at all times. They use water to drink, bathe, and preen their feathers.
Offer a balanced diet: Pomeranian ducks require a balanced diet that includes grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein. They also need access to grit to aid in digestion.
Provide a variety of foods: Pomeranian ducks enjoy a variety of foods and may get bored with a monotonous diet. Introduce different foods and treats to keep them interested.
Avoid feeding them bread: Bread is not a suitable food for Pomeranian ducks as it lacks the necessary nutrients they need. It can also lead to digestive problems and obesity.
Supplement their diet with vitamins: Pomeranian ducks may require vitamin supplements to ensure they are receiving all the necessary nutrients for their health.
Provide a shallow pool or pond: Pomeranian ducks love to swim and play in water. A shallow pool or pond will allow them to engage in their natural behavior.
Keep predators away: Pomeranian ducks are vulnerable to predators such as raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey. Ensure that their living area is predator-proof.
Provide shade: Pomeranian ducks need access to shade during hot weather to avoid heatstroke.
Monitor their health: Pomeranian ducks can get sick just like any other animal. Monitor their behavior and physical health to ensure they are healthy.
Vaccinate them: Pomeranian ducks require regular vaccinations to prevent diseases.
Deworm them: Pomeranian ducks can get infested with parasites such as worms. Deworm them regularly to prevent health problems.
Trim their wings: Pomeranian ducks can fly short distances and may escape their living area. Trim their wings to prevent them from flying away.
Provide nesting materials: Pomeranian ducks require nesting materials to build their nests. Offer them hay, straw, and other suitable materials.
Provide a suitable nesting area: Pomeranian ducks need a private and comfortable area to lay their eggs. Offer them a secluded area with suitable nesting materials.
Do not disturb their nests: Pomeranian ducks are protective of their nests and may become aggressive if disturbed. Avoid disturbing their nests to prevent stress and aggression.
Keep males and females separated during breeding season: Pomeranian ducks can breed naturally or through artificial insemination. Keep males and females separated during breeding season to avoid overbreeding and stress.
Provide socialization: Pomeranian ducks are sociable animals and require socialization with other ducks or humans. Offer them opportunities to interact and play with others.
Train them: Pomeranian ducks are intelligent animals and can be trained to perform simple tricks and respond to commands. Use positive reinforcement to train them.
Handle them gently: Pomeranian ducks are sensitive animals and can become stressed if handled roughly. Handle them gently to prevent injury and stress.
Provide them with toys: Pomeranian ducks enjoy playing with toys such as balls, floating objects, and puzzles. Offer them suitable toys to keep them entertained.
Monitor their behavior: Pomeranian ducks have a unique personality and behavior. Monitor their behavior to understand their needs and preferences.
Seek professional help if needed: If you encounter any problems or concerns with your Pomeranian ducks’ health or behavior, seek professional help from a veterinarian or a duck specialist.
