New Pomeranian Puppy Checklist

Home base

• Exercise pen (playpen): a pen with about 24-inch panels gives a puppy a safe area that is bigger than a crate. Check that the bar spacing is narrow enough that a tiny head cannot squeeze through.
• Crate: a small wire or plastic crate, roughly 18 to 22 inches long, is plenty for most adult Pomeranians. A crate that is too big makes house-training harder.
• Bed and blankets: washable and soft. Get two so one can be in the laundry.
• Potty pads or a turf tray if you will use an indoor spot, even temporarily.
• Baby gates to block stairs and rooms you do not want the puppy in yet.

Feeding

• The same food the puppy is already eating. Ask the breeder for the brand and formula and buy it before arrival. Switch gradually later if you want to.
• Shallow bowls: stainless steel or ceramic, low and stable. Deep bowls are awkward for a short muzzle.
• Small training treats: soft, pea-sized or smaller. You can also use kibble from the daily ration.
• A high-calorie supplement gel recommended by your vet, kept on hand for tiny puppies at risk of low blood sugar. Ask your vet how and when to use it. Our feeding guide explains the risk.

Walking and travel

• A properly fitted harness. We recommend a harness over a collar for leash walking; Pomeranians can have delicate tracheas. A step-in or vest-style harness in XXS or XS usually fits.
• A light collar or tag with your phone number, worn for ID only, not for pulling.
• A lightweight 4 to 6 foot leash. Skip heavy clips; they bang into a small dog's head.
• A soft-sided carrier for vet visits and car trips. If you may fly with your dog, choose one that fits under an airline seat. See flying with a Pomeranian puppy.

Grooming

A Pomeranian's double coat needs regular brushing from puppyhood. Start with:

• Slicker brush (small size) for lifting the coat.
• Metal comb with fine and medium teeth to find tangles, especially behind the ears and in the "pants."
• Nail clippers or a grinder sized for small dogs, plus styptic powder in case you nick a quick.
• Gentle dog shampoo and conditioner.
• A dog toothbrush (finger brush or small-head brush) and dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste.
• Grooming wipes and a soft towel for quick cleanups.

Our Pomeranian grooming guide shows how to use each tool.

Toys and enrichment

• Small, soft plush toys sized for a toy breed.
• Puppy-appropriate chew toys. Avoid anything hard enough to crack a tooth; a common rule of thumb is that if you cannot press a thumbnail into it, it is too hard.
• A small food puzzle or snuffle mat to slow eating and give the brain a workout.
• Rotate toys every few days so they stay interesting.

Check toys regularly and throw out anything with loose pieces or exposed stuffing.

Cleaning

• Enzymatic cleaner for accidents. Regular cleaners leave odors that invite repeat accidents.
• Paper towels and a small, dedicated laundry basket for puppy bedding.
• Poop bags for walks.

Health and records

• A vet appointment booked for the first several days home.
• A folder for the puppy's vaccination records, health certificate and any registration papers. See health and paperwork.
• Microchip registration updated with your contact details.
• A kitchen or baby scale for weekly weigh-ins. Small changes matter in a dog this size.
• Your nearest emergency vet clinic's address and phone number saved in your phone.

Puppy-proofing

• Cords tucked away or covered.
• Toxic houseplants, medications, chocolate, xylitol-containing gum and grapes kept well out of reach.
• Gaps behind appliances and under furniture blocked.
• Ramps or steps for any furniture the puppy will be allowed on, so it is not jumping down.

What you can skip for now

• Expensive beds. Many puppies chew them.
• Clothing, unless your home is very cold. A Pomeranian's coat is warm.
• Retractable leashes. They make it easy for a small dog to dart into danger.
• Large bags of food before you know the puppy does well on it.

Next step

Once your shopping list is sorted, read our first 30 days care guide. Still choosing? See our available puppies or book a WhatsApp video call to meet one live.