How to assess for insufficient closure of the fontanel
Pomeranians should not have an open fontanel when mature (some discretional allowance may be given to puppies up to 10 months however must still be reported).
The Pomeranian Breed Standard states that 'HEAD AND SKULL: Head and nose foxy in outline, skull flat, large in proportion to muzzle which finishes finely and free from lippiness.' As a consequence to meet the breed standard the skull should be completely closed at maturity.
From January 2014, as part of Breed Watch, judges at Championship shows have a mandatory responsibility to assess and report the number of exhibits present that have 'insufficient closure of the fontanel'.
A demonstration has recently taken place (November 2013) to provide exhibitors with guidance and hands on experience of how to identify an open fontanel in a Pomeranian. This educational demonstration will continue throughout 2014 starting at The Pomeranian Club January open show, The Pomeranian Club Championship Show in March and finally The Pomeranian Club October open show.
Examination process
Starting from the stop press gently but firmly through the coat onto the skull moving in a decisive but
thorough manner towards the occiput.
Do not press with undue force against the skull - particularly if an open fontanel is discovered.
It is also important to examine the sides of the skull as 'insufficient closure of the open fontanel' can occur within this area as well as on the crown of the skull where it is more common.
A video of this process can be found on our Facebook page by pressing the button below.
Step by step photographs showing how to appraise the head for fontanel abnormalities (without causing distress or discomfort to the exhibit). Ideally, this should form part of the examination of the head from the stop to the occiput.
Thanks to Suzie Q for giving up her Sunday for modelling duties.
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Copyright to The Pomeranian Club 2025.
No photo's or text maybe copied from this site.
Copyright to The Pomeranian Club 2025.
