Bringing home a Pomeranian puppy is exciting, and a little overwhelming. Poms are tiny, smart and full of energy, and they have a few breed-specific needs that are easy to miss. Use this checklist to get everything ready before your puppy arrives, so the first days are calm and happy for both of you.
The essentials checklist
1. A cozy bed
Pom puppies sleep a lot, and they love beds that feel like a den. A covered or cave-style bed keeps them warm and gives them a safe place to retreat. Our Corduroy Pomeranian Cave Bed is a customer favorite, and the Pomeranian Tunnel Bed is great for puppies who like to burrow. Read our guide to the best beds for Pomeranians or browse all Pomeranian beds.
2. A harness and a light leash
Pomeranians can be prone to tracheal (windpipe) problems, so many vets recommend a harness instead of a collar for walks. Choose a soft, light harness that does not press on the throat. Learn more in Harness or Collar for a Pomeranian? and see our Pomeranian harness collection. A small collar with an ID tag is still useful for identification.
3. Food and water bowls
Choose small, shallow bowls that are easy for a tiny puppy to reach. An automatic water dispenser keeps fresh water available all day. See all bowls & feeding products.
4. Puppy food for small breeds
Start with the same food the breeder or shelter used, and change slowly if needed. Toy-breed puppies have tiny stomachs and burn energy fast, so they need small, frequent meals. Ask your vet how often and how much to feed.
5. Grooming tools
That famous fluffy coat needs regular brushing from day one. Starting early teaches your puppy that grooming is relaxing, not scary. Useful tools include a gentle brush like the Pomeranian Spa Brush, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush. Our step-by-step guide on how to groom a Pomeranian at home explains the basics.
6. Dental care
Small breeds like Poms are prone to dental problems, so start a tooth-care routine early. Short daily brushing sessions and safe chew toys like the PomSmile Dental Toy help keep teeth clean.
7. Toys
Puppies need to chew, play and learn. Mix soft toys, chew toys and puzzle toys, and rotate them so your puppy doesn't get bored. Browse Pomeranian toys.
8. A carrier
You will need a carrier for the drive home, vet visits and trips. A soft carrier with good airflow is ideal, such as the Pomeranian Breathable Carrier. See our guide on traveling with a Pomeranian.
9. Puppy pads and cleaning supplies
Accidents will happen while your puppy learns. Keep pee pads, poop bags and an enzyme cleaner (which removes the smell so your puppy doesn't return to the same spot) ready.
10. Something warm
Small puppies get cold quickly. A soft blanket like our Pomeranian Warm Sleeping Blanket helps, and a light sweater or hoodie is useful for winter. Read how to keep your Pomeranian warm in winter.
Puppy-proof your home
- Move electrical cables, shoes and small objects out of reach.
- Block stairs and high furniture. Pom puppies are fragile, and jumping down from a sofa or bed can hurt them.
- Keep toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and xylitol (in sugar-free gum) away.
- Check that balcony railings and fences have no gaps a tiny puppy could squeeze through.
The first week
- Visit the vet in the first few days for a check-up, vaccination plan and parasite treatment.
- Keep a routine for meals, naps, play and toilet breaks. Puppies feel safer when the day is predictable.
- Take frequent toilet breaks: after waking up, after eating and after play, and reward every success.
- Socialize gently with new people, sounds and places, at your puppy's pace.
- Handle paws, ears and mouth a little every day so grooming and vet visits are easier later.
Need a name?
Still deciding? Get inspired by our list of 100+ cute Pomeranian names.
FAQ
What do I need to buy before getting a Pomeranian puppy?
At minimum: a bed, harness and leash, ID tag, small bowls, puppy food, a brush, toys, a carrier, puppy pads and cleaning supplies.
Should a Pomeranian puppy wear a collar or a harness?
For walks, a harness is usually the safer choice for Poms, because it doesn't put pressure on the throat. A light collar can still carry an ID tag.
When should I start grooming my Pomeranian puppy?
Right away. Short, gentle brushing sessions with treats help your puppy get used to grooming before the adult coat comes in.