How much does a Pomeranian cost?

The Pomeranian price from reputable breeders in Germany is between 1,500 and 3,500 euros. Top puppies from breeding lines with show successes can also cost 4,000 euros or more. If you are offered significantly less than 1,000 euros, you should be suspicious – this often indicates puppy mills or unvaccinated, unwormed animals.

The cost of a Pomeranian at a glance:

• Purchase price puppy: 1,500-3,500 euros (reputable breeding)
• Initial equipment: 200-400 euros – everything about basic equipment for puppies
• Vet first year: 300-600 Euro (vaccinations, chip, castration optional)
• Monthly costs: 80-150 euros (food, care, insurance)

Find reputable breeders

In Germany, the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH ) is the most important contact point for reputable breeders. The responsible breed club is the Club für Spitze e.V. – there is a verified list of breeders. More information on the costs, keeping and character of the Pomeranian can be found in the main Pomeranian article with all the details.

What a reputable breeder offers:

• Puppy passport with vaccination book (distemper, parvo, leptospirosis at least)
• EU pet passport with microchip
• Deworming certificates (at least twice before delivery)
• Minimum age 8 weeks at delivery (better 10-12 weeks)
• Insight into parent animals possible
• Purchase contract with take-back guarantee

Pomeranian puppy or adult dog?

If you want to buy a Pomeranian puppy, you have the advantage of training the dog right from the start. Puppies need a lot of time, patience and consistent training in the first few weeks. If you have little experience with dogs, you can alternatively buy an adult Pomeranian from an animal welfare organization – often with a familiar character and basic training.

Pomeranian male or female?

There are hardly any differences in character between males and females in the Pomeranian – both are considered playful, affectionate and lively. Males can be somewhat more dominant, bitches are in heat twice a year, which many owners find time-consuming. Neutering is possible in both cases and makes keeping them much easier.

What to look out for when buying?

When you first meet the puppy and the breeder, you should take a close look – not only at the dog, but also at the conditions in which it is kept. The following signs reveal a healthy puppy:

• Clear, alert eyes – no discharge
• Clean, fluffy coat without bald patches
• Active, curious behavior (no anxious trembling)
• Normal body weight – not too thin, no bloated belly
• Clean ears without odor

Hands off if: the breeder cannot show any parent animals, the puppy is less than 8 weeks old, no written contract is offered or the handover is to take place in a parking lot. More about the first week with the puppy – what to do when the dog moves in.

Pomeranian in video

All recognized Pomeranian colors at a glance

The FCI standard (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) recognizes a wide range of coat colors for the German Spitz – to which the Pomeranian / Miniature Spitz belongs. These colors are relevant for breeding and are decisive at shows.

Solid Pomeranian colors

• Orange / Orange-Sable: The best known and most common color. The coat is bright orange to golden brown, often with dark hair tips (sable effect). Typical of the classic Pomeranian look.
• White: Pure white without any yellowish tint. One of the most popular colors – and one of the most difficult to keep in breeding, as puppies are often born cream-colored.
• Black: Deep black, without brown or reddish tint. Rare, but very striking.
• Brown / chocolate: Medium to dark brown, uniform over the entire coat. The nose and eyelids are pigmented brown to match.
• Cream: Very light beige to ivory. Often difficult to distinguish from white – the difference lies in the undercoat and under direct light.
• Blue / Blue-Sable: A rare blue-grey due to dilution of the black pigment. Highly sought after and correspondingly more expensive to breed.
• Wolf-Sable / Grey-Sable: Grey base color with dark hair tips. Reminiscent of the original Spitz type.

Two-tone and merle variants

• Black & Tan: Black base coat with brown-red markings over the eyes, on the chest and on the paws.
• Pinto (Parti-Color): White base color with colored patches in orange, black or brown. Not permitted everywhere, but very popular.
• Merle: A speckled pattern due to the merle gene. Controversial in serious breeding, as double merle bred dogs can develop health problems.

Which color is the rarest?

The rarest Pomeranian colors are blue, lavender (dilution of brown) and pure white without a yellowish tint. Rare colors fetch higher prices in breeding – if you want to buy a blue Pomeranian, you will pay considerably more than for the classic orange.

Does the color change with age?

Yes – and this is particularly pronounced in Pomeranian puppies. Many puppies are born with a color that changes completely over the course of the first 12-18 months. Breeders know this phenomenon as Puppy Uglies – the phase around the 3rd to 7th month when the puppy fluff falls out and the adult coat grows in. The final color is only stable after about 18 months.

Which color is the healthiest?

From a health point of view, there are no differences between the standard colors. However, care must be taken with merles: the merle gene can lead to vision and hearing problems in dubious breeders. Reputable breeders genetically test their Merle breeding animals.

Pomeranian in video

When should education begin?

Immediately – from the first day the puppy moves in. No matter how cute the little Pomeranian is, consistency from the very beginning is crucial. What you allow the puppy to do, the adult dog will take for granted. The first 12 weeks are the most sensitive imprinting phase – this is when the dog learns the fastest.

Basic commands for Pomeranian puppies

Every Pomeranian should master these five commands – learn them in this order:

• Sit: The simplest command, always first. Reward with treats and praise.
• Place: Based on seat, important for peace and quiet in public
• Stay: patience exercise – first short distance, then longer
• Come / Here: Lifesaving – must function absolutely reliably
• Off / No: Clear limit, calm but firm voice

Positive reinforcement: Why punishments don’t work

Pomeranians are extremely sensitive to pressure and punishment. Loud shouting, physical corrections or yelling at this breed lead to withdrawal, mistrust and, in the worst case, fear biting. What works: Positive reinforcement – reward (treats, praise, play) immediately after the desired behavior. The dog learns: This reaction brings good things.

Socialization: What Pomeranian puppies need to experience

Puppies that gather many different impressions between the 3rd and 12th week of life become self-confident dogs. Important socialization points for Pomeranians:

• Other dogs (different sizes) – particularly important as Poms are often perceived as prey by larger dogs
• Children, strangers, crowds of people
• City noise: cars, bicycles, trains, music
• Various floor coverings: Asphalt, grass, grating, stairs
• Vet visits without treatment (just sniffing and treats)

House-training the Pomeranian

Pomeranians are known for their small size – and unfortunately also for the fact that housetraining requires more patience than with larger breeds. Puppy bladders are small, the urge to urinate is frequent. Rule of thumb: go out every 1-2 hours, directly after sleeping, after eating and after playing. No scolding in the event of accidents – wipe up calmly, avoid eye contact, react more quickly the next time.

Typical parenting problems and solutions

• Barking: Pomeranians are very alert by nature. Identify the cause (fear, excitement, boredom) and work on it specifically – teaching “Speak!” helps to control the barking
• Small dog syndrome: Small dogs are often treated too much like babies. Clear rules apply equally to all dogs – no matter how small
• Separation anxiety: practise short periods alone from day 1. Never say goodbye or hello dramatically

Pomeranian education in video

Health insurance and liability insurance

You’ve bought your first dog, but you don’t know which insurance to choose?

Important question:

How to insure a dog?

The 2 types of insurance for dogs

As already described in the introduction, there are basically two insurances for dogs:

1. Health insurance – insurance against costs incurred due to illness
2. Liability insurance (optional) – insurance protects against the financial burden of damage claims

Just as with us humans, one thing is important: basic protection. This includes health insurance, should there be unplanned, higher costs, such as an operation.

The bigger your dog, the more you should think about liability insurance. This is not even about your dog biting someone, but also about general small damages that can occur at any time. For example, when playing in your own home or in other people’s homes.

Dog insurance: My + Alternative

I looked through all the comparison portals, all the calculators and finally decided on Agila, because it was also recommended to me by other dog owners. Here you have everything so far, including the cost coverage for medically necessary operations.

• Agila animal health insurance
• Agila liability

A good alternative is also Petplan.

• Petplan

Also when playing with kids.

Is dog insurance compulsory?

None of the insurances are obligatory. So you are free to decide whether you want to take out health insurance or liability insurance for your dog, you are not obliged to do so.

• Compulsory? No

What should insurance offer you?

If something happens, then especially the processing of damage reports should go quickly. Free choice of veterinarian is important, so you can choose freely, for a good veterinarian in your area, more tips on this later!

This is what a good dog insurance should be able to do:

• Fast processing of damage reports
• Free choice of vet for you
• Suitable and comprehensive insurance cover
• Precaution included
• Discounts for two or more pets

Cost of insurance: month and year

Now for one of the most important questions:

What is the cost of insurance for a dog?

Of course, all services, providers and conditions are different. Here is a first overview.

How much does dog health insurance cost?

For a typical dog insurance you pay, of course, depending on the provider, between 5 euros and 18 euros per month. The respective premium amount depends primarily on which benefits you want to claim for your dog. A second important factor is the deductible. Do you want the costs to be covered completely or do you want to pay a part yourself? Depending on this, the prices are therefore between 5 euros and 18 euros.

• Health insurance starts at 5 euros / month
• Most expensive insurance at about 18 euros / month

So in a year, as a dog owner, you can expect to pay a triple-digit amount for insurance.

• As a rule: 3-digit amount / year
• Cheap (less power) from 60 euros / year
• Expensive (more power) up to 216 euros / year

How much does dog liability insurance cost?

The premium amount of the dog liability insurance depends mainly on your desired sum insured. With 10 million euros of damage, you pay about 4 to 5 euros per month.

• Liability insurance about 5 euros / month

Annually thus round about 50 euro – 60 euro, depending upon offerer of the dog adhesion insurance.

• Liability insurance 60 Euro / year

Also for fighting dogs. As described, it depends on the amount of insurance.

Do I need health insurance for my dog?

Insurance is there to cover costs that, in case of doubt, exceed one’s own budget. An operation with follow-up costs, is in the four-digit range. Small matters at the vet cost 50 euros to 200 euros. If you can easily pay such amounts, it theoretically works without dog insurance. The small monthly amount protects you from larger costs.

The dog insurance is comparable with an own health insurance. Of course, you try to stay healthy, for years nothing happens and then suddenly comes the moment when you may have to rely on health insurance. Hospitalization, the operation, medications,…. If you can afford to pay 20,000 or 30,000 euros out of your own pocket, in theory you don’t need insurance. In practice, however, it saves you from a big cost shock with a small monthly amount.

My mistake: locked too late!

My mistake was that I took out the insurance too late. So I still had to pay for the first treatments myself.

When should I buy insurance?

You should take out dog insurance at the same time as you buy your dog. If you want to buy a puppy, for example, many insurance companies already cover the first vaccinations and deworming.

For example, I made the mistake of first paying for everything myself and then 3 months later I registered the dog insurance. Of course, this way I had to pay for the first vaccinations and deworming, with a visit to the vet, myself. In total, the cost for my puppy was about 240 euros for all appointments. Money, which I could have saved directly!

You can easily buy the insurance online, you also need only a few data from your dog, for example, the color of the coat, the breed and the weight.

Animal and veterinarian

Who can be insured?

What breeds of dogs are insured?

All dog breeds can be insured, whether German shepherd, dachshund, rough-haired dachshund, Labrador and golden retriever, dwarf spitz or even poodle and boxer. So it doesn’t matter which dog you buy, because every breed can be insured.

The most popular dog breeds are mainly:

1. Mixed breed dogs
2. Labrador Retriever
3. Golden Retriever
4. German shepherd dog
5. Yorkshire Terrier
6. Jack Russell Terrier
7. Beagle
8. Chihuahua
9. Australian Shepard
10. German boxer

What animals can be insured?

Of course, not only dogs can be insured. If you also have a cat or a rabbit, you can insure them as well. Tip, if you register a second pet with an insurance company, you often even get a discount. The most common pets that are registered with a pet insurance company include:

• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbit

How do I find a good veterinarian?

My tip for finding a good vet nearby: Just ask other dog owners you will meet everywhere on the street.

If you need to find a vet quickly, take a look at Google Maps. Here you will find markers, so you can see directly how far away the vet is, as well as reviews from other users. So if the vet already has 30, 40 reviews and they are over 4.5 stars, it should be a good, reputable vet for your little dog.

Conclusion: Insure your dog!

Now you’ve really learned a lot when it comes to dog insurance! Here are my recommendations again. If your bank account isn’t bulging and 4-figure bills don’t shock you, you may not need insurance. But if you’d rather pay a small monthly amount and be covered, you should opt for insurance for your dog!

Dog insurance: My + Alternative

I looked through all the comparison portals, all the calculators and finally decided on Agila, because it was also recommended to me by other dog owners. Here you have everything so far, including the cost coverage for medically necessary operations.

• Agila animal health insurance
• Agila liability

Petplan is also a good alternative.

• Petplan

Basic equipment dog: checklist

Not only the right insurance for the dog, there is more to the basic equipment.

No matter what breed of dog or what type of mixed breed, there are exactly 6 things you need when buying your first dog or puppy! So to speak, the basic equipment for your puppy and the first days together in the house or apartment. With this checklist, you have everything important! The right food for puppies, two bowls for food and water, a leash with collar and / or harness (safer), toys and very important…

• Basic equipment puppy & dog

1 year with Peppa (Pomeranian): My experiences

Let’s start with the basics first:

1. You’ll get used to each other, get used to each other, become a team…
2. Always remain patient and calm – dogs become like their owners, be a role model

Listen along with Zoe:

First of all, your dog is affectionate as a little puppy and even later. My dwarf puppy looks at me virtually every minute, with a questioning look, what are we doing? But, it’s getting a little less.

You and your dog are always more confident together!

In the beginning she ran into my legs so often, sometimes I kicked her away slightly by mistake, that’s quite “normal” in the beginning. You have to get used to each other first! The important thing is:

Always stay patient with your dog!

Above all, it is important to go out regularly so that your dog becomes house-trained, to feed him regularly and to always have fresh water at the bowl and on the way (for more than 1 hour).

In this article, you’ll learn what to expect after the first few weeks!

Let’s start simple, with the most important, feed 2x a day.

Tip. Part 1: The first weeks with a Miniature Spitz

From a small puppy to a full-grown dwarf Spitz. Already in part 1 I took you into the (for me) new world of dogs. In part 1 it was mainly about the first days and weeks, the basic equipment for puppies and much more. Read here everything about our first weeks together:

• Midget

So small and cute, “Peppa” was as a puppy – Before.

So small and cute, she still is – After.

That’s how fast a Pomeranian grows up, or rather becomes full grown.

Dog food: Delicious, healthy and… how often?

The big, or rather small advantage of the Miniature Spitz, you need relatively little food! I always have a little dry food, wet food and of course a few (few) snacks. If you know the classic Caesar can, then it lasts about three days, with some additional dry food.

My little dog is fed twice a day, in the beginning I fed her three times a day, that was too much!

So she doesn’t do much in the evenings (topic: housetraining) I feed her 1) in the morning and 2) at noon/afternoon.

Zum! This here even more on the subject

• Dry and wet food
• 1) morning and 2) noon/afternoon
• Few snacks (if, 90% to chew)
• Important: Always provide water

Tip. Buy snacks to chew

Dogs love to chew, it’s fun for them and a distraction at the same time. That’s why I like to buy chew sticks or snacks that keep her a little busy.

• Snacks to chew
• Occupation and fun

How much does an adult dwarf spitz weigh?

Depending on whether your Pomeranian is purebred or not, the weight will differ. My little one is purebred and only weighs 2.2 kilos when full grown. So she is actually more fur than dog!

• Approximately 2.2 kilogram
• Purebred

Dry food, water, the basics.

Always good: something to chew on!

This also brings us directly to an important question, for new dog owners:

Travelling with a dog: train and plane

What about when you travel? Can your dog come with you and if so, with whom?

Can I take a Miniature Pomeranian with me on the plane?

Yes and no, sometimes you can take very small dogs on planes. But you should check beforehand if the airline allows it or not. For example, some airlines only allow assistance dogs (e.g. guide dogs).

Airline examples:

• Ryanair – no dogs allowed (only companion dogs)
• Euro Wings – Dogs allowed

Can I take a Miniature Pomeranian with me on the ICE / train?

Yes, dogs are allowed on trains, but also on long-distance trains (ICE). Theoretically, it means that you need a dog box. But so far no one has approached me. Whereas I have bought a box. However, the pullover on the seat or on the floor is often the easier alternative.

The dog is so small that really no escort has said anything yet.

• Yes, dogs are allowed on the train

Not Peppa, but cute too! With dog on the beach:

Housebroken: How long does it take?

You are a dog is really housebroken, you need to bring a lot of patience. About 6, 7 to 9 months until he or she really understands that you do not do in the apartment. Especially not on the carpet! If your carpet does get a fair amount, you’re going to need a carpet cleaning. Because it smells! Tips on that in a moment.

#reallife

That’s why it’s so important not to just buy dogs or give them away. You really have to think about it, they need a lot of time, love and attention. What that means, you learn again here Dog as a pet: Requirements.

Going outside regularly: teaching “doing outside

Often your dog needs to feed especially after meals. Therefore, it is important to feed at noon / afternoon. Then in the evening, only minimal (eg 1 snack). This way your dog does not have to go to the toilet at night and you have less dirt in the apartment.

My tips:

• Duration: 6 to 9 months
• Important: Get out 3x a day, regularly
• Times: Morning, noon/afternoon and night.

Puppy Pads: Tip for your home and carpets

Tips for flats! Buy Puppy Pads So to speak flat diapers for the floor. Kind of like paper, about 50 by 50 inches, you just lay it on the floor. The paper is absorbent.

• Diaper for the floor
• Ca 50 x 50 cm
• Absorbent

How much does carpet cleaning cost?

My whole apartment has carpets – inconvenient! Accordingly, the first few months have left their mark on the floor. Maybe you’ll find yourself in the same situation! So here are my tips to help you find a good carpet cleaning company. Because, a bit like locksmiths, what does a good, reputable carpet cleaning cost and how do you find a good company?

First: Avoid clicking on the first places in the search results. On the first places you will find 99% ads. These results are minimally marked by “ad”. Because, someone has to pay for these ads, you!

Get at least four comparative offers, so you can get the best price. Of course, the price is not everything, the quality is also important, after all, it’s your own home. For that, be sure to check out Google reviews. Compare the amount of reviews and the amount of the average rating.

If you live in the big city, question not only the few shops in the city center, question also in the suburbs or slightly outside. Here the rents are cheaper, the wages, accordingly, the costs for you are somewhat lower.

Here again all savings tips summarized:

• Do not click on ads on Google (first results)
• Price comparison: Obtain at least 4 comparative offers
• Experiences: Compare Google reviews (amount and average)
• Suburban companies, smaller towns
• Make a fixed price in advance

Walk him: How often do you have to go out?

Let’s get to walking and (importantly for me) off-leash walking.

How far does a little pygmy run?

In fact, you can’t do long, extended jogging runs with a Miniature Spitz. Usually 2, maximum 3 km are enough, then your little doggie is already pretty knocked out! I myself usually just run a little in the neighbourhood, maybe 400, 500 metres to the nearest café and back.

The easiest way to tell that your dog is exhausted is that he really doesn’t want to run anymore and lies down on the floor. From my experience you should not sneak your dog after you, if necessary carry her a few meters, until home or give him enough time, perhaps a snack and some water to recover.

Important: Don’t tug your little puppy just because he or she doesn’t want to. When they have energy, they run all by themselves.

To recap, walk:

• I run an average of 400, 500 meters
• 2-3 km distance is enough
• If your dog consistently lies down, wear him or her

So often overlooked: Small dogs

Here is a little tip, if you have your first dog! Especially in the first weeks and months, it can happen that your dog runs into your feet, you accidentally step on your dog, of course only slightly, e.g. when getting up from a chair, while you are careless.

Don’t worry, you’re getting more careful and sensitive.

At some point, you’ll automatically look at the floor before you get up from the chair. Just a little example! It’s the same with your dog, you both get to know each other better and better. Little by little you notice that you can walk further and further distances and that your dog follows you better and better.

Especially in the big city a real issue! For example, I always have a cappuccino with me, mobile phone in hand…. in the first weeks you are sometimes a little annoyed, that’s quite normal! Suddenly your dog jumps into the street, a leaf is chased after (cappuccino spilled), or even the hunt, for the next pigeon.

After 4, 5 months, you already know automatically what your dog reacts to. After 9 or 10 months at the latest, you’ll be really well attuned to each other!

Running without a leash: How to learn?

Running off leash is such an issue, especially in the big city! If you want to walk off-leash with your Miniature Spitz, be aware, even if your dog is super cute, it is and always will be a dog! Accordingly, you can trust him and her, with a little training and practice.

How does my dog learn to walk without a leash?

We started our training in the park, here we have a lot of space, green meadow and if necessary I can run behind!

Learning to walk without a leash: This is how it works

Just always make sure you keep your dog in sight and teach him or her to come towards you when you interact with her. E.g. by a whistle or a certain command, I always say “Peppa (her name), come”.

Also, always make sure you are the alpha dog:

Your dog follows you, not you the dog – stay consistent

Sometimes you just have to run 20, 30 meters ahead, your dog will follow you almost automatically. If not, immediately give “command” and make sure that “something happens”. Either your dog comes or you go, take her with you (on a collar, leash or by talking to her). The important thing is: your dog follows.

The more often he or she does this, the greater the learning success and automaticity.

Repetition and attention for learning success

Running without a leash is like us: when we learn the guitar, a new language or a new sport. The more training, the more proficient we are! So if you run off-leash regularly, even for a few stretches, your dog will get used to it. Accordingly, your teamwork will become more and more harmonious.

Maybe as a tip, I never work with treats. Dogs are pack animals and accordingly you should be a strong and good “role model”. Then everything works, even without treats.

But treats can help with training, e.g. for sit, down and so on. But I’ll show you in a moment how your dog learns commands like “fetch” and “search” quickly, even without a single treat.

This is the fastest way for your dog to learn to walk off leash:

• Search for open space, ideally in park or similar (few dangers)
• Walk slowly in front, looking mostly in the direction of the target
• Moving forward consistently
• Stay alert when dog calls 2, 3 meters away
• Unify calls: I whistle (softly) and have the command “Peppa come”

Toys: What does a Miniature Spitz need?

Just like with snacks, I keep it the same with toys, less is more! In fact, my dog has only 2, 3 (of 6) toys that she likes to play with. My little tip, it’s best to go directly to the pet store and see what your dog reacts to. So you can directly find a good toy that your dwarf dog will enjoy.

It is much more important that you spend time with your dog! Go out into the countryside, onto the meadow, if possible into the park and into the forest. That’s what your dog enjoys the most!

• Maximum 5 toys
• Rather: spend time with the dog, go to the countryside

Playing with leaves, with sticks, with other dogs, all better than another “plastic piece” in the apartment.

Learn commands: Fetch, Bring, Search, Sit!

A good start, are always simple things. PS: Super handy is “Search”, that saves you time too!

One of the first commands Peppa learned was “fetch” and “bring.”

“Learn “Get” and “Bring

1 command would be enough, I just always call both. Typical example: fetching sticks. Works great in the city apartment too though. Just work with the favorite toy. Communication is the key. Always think simple and with enough repetition. If you want to teach your dog these commands.

“Learn to “fetch” and “bring”, checklist in 5 steps:

1. 1. Take a toy that your dog knows (term) and likes
   2. Just throw the toy away, e.g. in the apartment, 4, 5 meters in the hallway
   3. Say “fetch” or “bring” with several repetitions.
   4. Look at the toy again and again at the same time

…

• After 5-10 seconds you run to the toy

Repeat this a few times. Your dog will eventually understand what to do.

So, if you repeat this exercise a few times, eventually a dog will run, get his toy and bring it back to you. After that, as a reward, just clap your hands (for example) and praise your dog by name.

Learn “Search”

It’s the same with “search”, it worked for me right after the third time. Her favorite toy is a bone. Accordingly, I simply said “Find the bone”, “Find the bone”!

Tip. “Search” is mega handy + also saves you time

Super handy because now I can also just say “find the bone” if I don’t know where it is, she’ll take me there!

“Learn to search” checklist in 4 steps:

1. 1. Take a toy that your dog knows (term) and likes
   2. Tell your dog, “Find the bone” (or what he, she knows).
   3. Repeat the command several times

…

• Again after 5-10 seconds, you run and go to the toy

For me it worked directly the third time! I even thought she wanted to feed, because she ran into the kitchen, but the bone was on the table! Therefore, super practical.

This is followed, as always, by a nice gesture, e.g. just clap your hands and praise your dog. As almost always, I work without snacks.

Much better than eating a lot, just to the all-natural play instinct!

Learn “Place”

A small, dear bribe, in the form of a treat, but there was when learning “place”. As always, it is important to stand quietly in front of your dog or kneel down and repeat the command several times. You can also gently help and push the butt down a bit so your dog understands what you want him to do. Through the snack he or she learns very quickly that it is worthwhile to perform this action.

“Learn to “sit” (with treats), checklist in 3 steps:

• Prepare snack, take in hand
• Saying place several times (repetition is always important)
• The first time slightly help, Po Samst press down
• Stay consistent, only with place there are treats

Tip. Also make sure that your dog remains seated while he or she gets the treat. This way your dog learns to be calm and not to jump frantically back and forth as soon as food is available.

Dog groomer: fur, fur, fur!

For fur care & Co., I have for you once again extra guide, with tips from the pros, my dog groomer. Tip! I never cut the fur of my Pomeranian super short. It looks cute, but fur is there for a reason and we shouldn’t think of it as a “hairstyle”. That’s why we pretty much only have “tip trims”. Read more here:

• Dog groomer
• Dog fur and breeds

Part 1: The first weeks with Zwergspitz

From a small puppy to a full-grown dwarf Spitz. Already in part 1 I took you into the (for me) new world of dogs. In part 1 it was mainly about the first days and weeks, the basic equipment for puppies and much more. Read here everything about our first weeks together:

• Dwarf spitz puppies

Buy Pomeranian: Dog and cost

The following questions are divided into clear blocks, so you can find the right answers to your question(s) quickly and easily! Everything for your start in life, with the basics for your Pomeranian. At the end of the article you will find more interesting articles on the subject of Pomeranian puppies and buying a dog, in general, as well as the initial equipment and other tips for beginners and your first dog.

Listen along with Zoe:

1. What is the difference between a Miniature Spitz and a Pomeranian?
2. What is the difference between Kleinspitz and Zwergspitz?
3. What do you have to consider with dwarf spitz?
4. How much does a Pomeranian cost?
5. Is a Miniature Spitz a family dog?

First and foremost, the central question for many who have seen Pomeranians downtown or on Instagram and then set out to find them on the internet:

What is the difference between a Miniature Spitz and a Pomeranian?

There is no difference between Pomeranian and Zwergspitz. “Zwergspitz” is the German name. “Pomeranian” is the international or English name for the dog breed. If someone speaks of a Pomeranian, he always speaks of a Zwergspitz at the same time.

There is no difference between Pomeranian and Miniature Spitz.

What do you have to consider with dwarf spitz?

Basically, a Pomeranian is no different from any other puppy. Even though they are extremely small and cute, they are still small dogs. They need a lot of love from you, which means time and attention, regular eating, walking and a safe and warm place to sleep. Then there is the grooming.

In a nutshell:

1. Time and love from you (attention)
2. Regular eating, more on that in a moment.
3. Go walkies
4. Safe, warm place to sleep
5. Coat care

Here’s another tip! Pomeranian puppies are really, really small dogs. Therefore, properly assess your strength and the strength of other dogs!

Evaluate your strength when playing and on the leash correctly

If your dog wears a harness, the danger is less, if he wears a collar, it is greater. Hectic movements from you, can quickly cause damage to the neck, or the cervical vertebrae in the little ones. Why? The neck and all the muscles are so delicate when puppies are Miniature Pointers that you must always be careful when playing and taking the dog out.

Also pay attention when you pull on the leash. Just like when playing, your movements should not be too frantic or forceful. The good thing is, once you have your Pomeranian puppy in hand, you can quickly gauge how much strength you can muster. Much more important then are strange, large dogs.

Beware of big dogs

Miniature spitz puppies are actually so small, you might think they are big guinea pigs. That’s exactly what some big dogs think! Even if they just want to play, their strength can be enough to snap the little puppies’ necks. Just like with frantic movements, you should make sure your puppy is protected even with big dogs.

How much does a Pomeranian cost?

If you want to buy a Pomeranian, you have to calculate with costs of 1.800 to 2.500 Euro.

Price approx. 1.800 Euro to 2.500 Euro

In addition to the purchase price, you will have to pay for basic equipment for your puppy, as well as the first visit to the vet and groomer.

The basic equipment for the little puppy costs about 80 euros. This already includes food, leash, harness, blanket, treats – everything you need for your beds in the first days. At the vet you will pay about 80 to 150 euros, depending on whether you still have to put the chip or give vaccinations. With good breeders everything is already done:

• Deworming, chip and the vaccinations.

At the groomer you pay about 50 to 70 euros for a haircut. During the first visit, you and your puppy will have a taster day at a good dog groomer, not a “full programme”. The first visit is dedicated to getting to know the dog salon.

Cost summary:

• Price for Pomeranian: 1.800 to 2.500 Euro
• First equipment for your puppy: 80 Euro
• Visit to the vet: 80 to 150 euros
• Dog groomer: 50 to 70 Euro

So all in all, the first month will cost you Round About:

Costs (total): 2.010 – 2.800 Euro

Is a Miniature Spitz a family dog?

What are Miniature Spitz like? Dwarf Spitz are absolute family dogs and are good with everyone, children, adults and even older people. They are very sweet, have a play instinct that is not too pronounced, as well as with the urge to move. If you were to rate the characteristics: Exercise, play drive, all 3 out of 5 stars. A super, little mix, not too hyper, not too calm.

Miniature spitzes are absolute family dogs

Also advantageous for children who themselves can not yet walk for miles, but would like to walk themselves. But also for us adults a comfortable advantage, especially if you live in the city and do not have direct access to long posts and meadows.

Life & Everyday Life

1. How long can you leave a Pomeranian alone?
2. How big do Pomeranian puppies grow?

How long can you leave a Pomeranian alone?

Leaving your Pomeranian alone takes practice! Your dog needs to learn and train, just like all other dogs. If you have a Pomeranian puppy, make sure from the beginning that he or she spends time alone, even for short periods of time. This way, your dog will quickly get used to being alone at times. So it’s best to start early after the first day.

As you can read in my article Pomeranian: The first week, I started directly on the third day to leave her alone sometimes. First for a small time window of 20, 30 minutes, after about 10 days I have served this time out for me to an hour.

• Day 1-2: 2-5 minutes alone (for example kitchen)
• Day 3-5: 20-30 minutes alone
• Day 6-9: 20-50 minutes alone
• From day 10: Up to 1 hour alone
• From 2nd month: More flexible

Your Pomeranian is a pack animal like other dogs, but also very independent! My tip at this point, don’t make a drama out of it, when you leave or come back your dog, treat it like a normal situation. This is the fastest way for your dog to get used to being downstairs, so it’s a normal thing.

Don’t make a drama out of leaving and seeing each other again, it’s normal that you’re away sometimes.

How big do Pomeranian puppies grow?

Pomeranian puppies are very small, their shoulder height is usually only 12 to 15 cm. Grown up pomeranians are then about 20 to 30 cm tall. Thus they belong to the minis among the dogs.

• Puppies: 12-15 centimeters
• Adult: 20-30 centimeters

How old do pygmy tips get?

Pomeranians live on average 12 to 16 years. So you should consider well before buying whether a small and later “big” dog fits into your life.

• Age: 12 to 16 years

Care & Hairstyle

1. How do you care for Pomeranians?
2. How much hair Pomeranian?
3. How often does a Pomeranian need a haircut?

How do you care for Pomeranians?

Daily combing – Pomeranians are mainly made of fur, you will notice that very quickly! Therefore, your most important task is coat care. For you, that means daily combing ideally. If you have a puppy, you should make sure that he or she also has a lot of undercoat. You need to comb this out extra carefully. This will prevent the little puppy’s fur from matting.

Clean eyes – Your little puppy is on the move here and sniffs at many things, so sometimes small remnants get stuck in the fine eye hairs. You can remove these either with your hand, or one or two fingers, or with a soft, damp cloth. All this of course gently and carefully! Your dog will not like this at the beginning, but he or she has to get used to it, after all you only want the best for the little puppy!

Popo säubern – Especially for puppy owners the almost daily ritual, the butt to be cleaned! Pomeranians have a lot of fur and accordingly, something always gets stuck. Sitting wrong, a little too much grass under the butt, already your puppy has rest on the fur. The good news, for all those who are buying their first dog, from my experience, the shyness of your dog’s poop goes away quickly – that is, if it’s your own cute little Pomeranian!

Regular bathing – We (Peppa and I) have so far settled our bathing routine that I always take her briefly into the shower with me on Sundays. Every three or four weeks I wash her completely, otherwise I mainly take care of her back part. Quasi the quick cat wash!

Care for your Pomeranian summarized:

1. Comb daily
2. With puppies additionally pay attention to the undercoat
3. Hairdresser every six weeks to two months
4. Butt cleaning
5. Regular bathing

How often do you need a haircut?

If you are buying your very first puppy, you may be asking yourself the question, how often do you need to take a Pomeranian to the groomer? As a general rule, you should go to the groomer every 45 to 60 days. A tip for puppy owners: first comes the taster day! The very first visit to the groomer is a taster day for little ones. This way your little Pomeranian puppy can get to know the groomer and the dog salon, as well as the different tools, for example scissors and hair dryer.

• Dog groomer every 45 to 60 days
• First day: Taster day to get to know each other

Especially if you have a young Pomeranian puppy, it is important that his or her undercoat is regularly removed by you and the groomer. This way, the little puppy will never get too warm and the fur will not mat.

How much hair Pomeranian?

Pomeranians hair fortunately very little, after all, they are also very little dog! In fact, the little hairs are so fine that you can barely see them. And the few hairs that are spread around your apartment or house are hardly worth mentioning. In relation to larger dog breeds and longhaired breeds, you have drawn a really good lot here.

Food and feed for puppies

1. How much can a Pomeranian eat? How much can a Miniature Spitz eat?
2. What can not eat dwarf tip?
3. How heavy can a dwarf spitz be?

How much can a Pomeranian eat? How much can a Miniature Spitz eat?

Give your Pomeranian food to eat 3x a day, this will give you a good spread of meals for your Pomeranian.

Like in the puppy guide, you will learn how to distribute the food quantities for your puppy ideally over the day. In the morning you should give your puppy wet food, at lunchtime dry food mixed with a little water and in the evening there is again wet food for the little Pomeranian puppy. Here is a brief summary:

• Wet food in the morning and evening (chicken, lamb, beef …)
• At noon dry food (mix with 50% water)
• Tip: Fruit and vegetables cut into small pieces as a snack

What can not eat dwarf tip?

This question can not be answered in a general way. Some dogs are allergic to certain types of meat, e.g. beef, chicken or lamb. In general, as for all dog breeds, protect the small stomach from sharp objects, poisonous objects, liquids and plants, as well as the following foods.

Dogs are not allowed to eat that among other things:

• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate and cocoa
• Coffee
• Certain types of nuts
• Raw pork
• Solanaceae
• Stone fruit
• …

How heavy can a dwarf spitz be?

If you feed your Pomeranian regularly, i.e. the correct, species-appropriate food, then you should have no problem with the weight of one of us. If you have given your Pomeranian too much for food and too many treats, then you can roughly stick to these weights. It is important to keep in mind the size of your Pomeranian. Dwarf Pomeranians grow to be between 20 and 30 cm tall when fully grown. Depending on this, the overall build and weight of the little one(s) will differ.

Weight of a Pomeranian (full grown):

• Weight: 1.8 to 3.4 kg

Accessories & Toys

1. What all do you need to buy for a dwarf spitz?
2. What do you need for a dwarf spitz?
3. What do you need for a Pomeranian?

What all do you need to buy for a dwarf spitz?

What do you need for a Pomeranian? The basic equipment for your Pomeranian is relatively simple, this includes briefly summarized:

• 2-4 toys for the start
• Later 5, 6 small toys are enough
• Puppy friendly, easy and chewable

But most important is love and attention from your side! Especially if you have a young puppy at home.

Advantages and disadvantages: Pomeranian (Dwarf Spitz).

Let’s sum it all up again, in super short!

The relatively high purchase price, compared to other dog breeds, many buyers see as a disadvantage, but the dogs save a lot of money in maintenance throughout their lifetime of 12 to 16 years. They eat relatively little, a small can is enough for 4 meals. Accessories are smaller, so they are also cheaper, and veterinary costs are somewhat lower.

If you are looking for a very active dog, the advantage “medium play instinct / urge to move” may also be perceived as a disadvantage of the dog breed. But for the city they are perfect. Alone the apartment with 80 or 120 square meters is already relatively much free space for the small.

Here is an overview of the most important advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

• Family-friendly
• Medium play instinct / urge to move
• Cheaper to maintain (food, accessories, also vet)

Disadvantages:

• High purchase price compared to other dog breeds
• Somewhat more elaborate coat care

These were the most important questions and answers for young Pomeranian puppies. If you have any other questions, drop us a line! With buying my first dog or puppy? Then maybe check out these free guides from us too!

Puppy moves in! Tips & advice for beginners

Your first puppy? More practical tips and experiences!

Dog as a pet: XXL Guide

Dog moves in! You have decided to get a dog, as a single, with your partner or even the whole family and you are thinking about getting a dog? There are millions of dogs in this country. They are among the most popular pets. Dog breeds like Labrador, French Bulldog, Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Pomeranian or Chihuahuas. How much does a dog cost? What does a dog like best? How does the dog know that you love him? Many questions, here you will find the answers. From the groomer and the first coat, to dog food (wet and dry), organic alternatives, but also tips on the initial equipment, around the leash, bowl & Co.

• Pet dog

Walk the dog, stay alone & Co.

What accessories do you need for your puppy around leash, bowl, sleeping place and food? Every year millions of little puppies are born and find a new home! We also have one or two little puppies now: Neppa & Peppa. You are thinking about getting a dog? If you have time to spare and love, then a little puppy is something wonderful. But, what do you have to consider?! Learn here about the daily life with a little puppy: My first day with Peppa (Dwarf Spitz, or Pomeranian puppy), my first week and my experiences. If you’re thinking of getting a dog, here are the ultimate tips for the first week with your puppy and a few insider tips, like puppy pads, tips for walking and staying alone – all in the first week!

• Puppy moves in! Going for a walk, staying alone & Co.

Basic equipment for puppies

Buying Puppies: Basic Supplies for Your Dog – No matter what breed of dog or type of mixed breed, there are exactly 6 things you need when buying your first dog or puppy! So to speak, the basic equipment for your puppy and the first days together in the house or apartment. With this checklist, you have everything important! The right food for puppies, two bowls for food and water, a leash with collar and / or harness (safer), toys and very important, especially if you have no garden or live on the first floor: Puppy Pads! Learn all the essentials here, with tips for times to eat and other interesting checklists for beginners and novices. Simply explained and free! Here’s the nuts and bolts for the first trip, from breeder to home, and the first few days with your puppy, from my experience.

• Basic equipment for puppies

Part 2: The first year with Pomeranian (Peppa)

The first year with my little dwarf spitz, she is called Peppa. I have told you about the first days in detail, in the article my first dog. Hard to believe, but true, Pomeranians remain just as cute as they were when they were puppies. Want to prepare for the first few months with your dog? Then learn what to do after the first few weeks here! My experiences and tips on walking, housetraining, food times, low barking, off-leash walking, giving commands – part 2 of the guide for little Pomeranians.

• Pomeranian, the first year – part 2

So small and cute, “Peppa” was as a puppy – Before.

So small and cute, she still is – After.

That’s how fast a Pomeranian grows up, or rather becomes full grown.

Buying puppies, equipment and the first car ride

My everyday life has changed, but we are getting more and more used to it! This is how our mornings start since the purchase: So the A&O is 1) love, 2) food and 3) walking. Much more about that later, in Day 3. First, we’ll talk about the basic equipment for your puppy from the specialty store and buying from the dog breeder, from getting to know him, to the price, to the first car ride to your new home!

Before buying: Off to the pet supply store

Some breeders will give you a small starter kit. But it’s even better if you prepare well for the purchase of your puppy. So before we really get to Day 1, your journey as a future dog owner begins at the pet supply store. Don’t worry, you won’t need much, but you will need a little. More specifically, 6 things you can use to keep your day 1 pup happy and provide a beautiful new home. Up front though:

More important than all the toys and accessories is you! Take your time to cuddle, walk, comb the fur, wash and much more. This is what makes you and your “teamwork”!

A puppy, like human babies, is playful, sleeps a lot and does his business when he has to. You are the “rock in the surf”, the calm soul. So you will quickly become a good team!

So now, before you buy, let’s get to the basic equipment for your puppy. I write here from my experience with Peppa! Peppa is a small Pomeranian, or dwarf Spitz puppy. Pomeranian, by the way, is simply the international, English term for the dog breed dwarf spitz. Since I travel a lot, very practical, because you can take dogs up to 7kg, for example, quite easily on the plane, in the hand luggage. We met, I fell in love with the little one and bam! My first day and the first week as a dog owner went by quickly, because everything is new, for her and for me.

So that you have a great start with your puppies, here is my guide, for you! With tips for your puppies basic equipment for house and apartment, tips for walking, staying alone, pee outside, go to sleep. Everything important for your first days.

This is little Peppa:

Basic equipment: 6 things you must have on day 1!

Buying Puppies: Basic dog supplies – There are exactly 6 things you need when buying your first dog or puppy! So to speak, the basic equipment for your puppy and the first days together in the house or in the apartment. With this checklist, you have everything important! The right food for puppies, two bowls for food and water, a leash with collar and / or harness (safer), toys and very important, especially if you have no garden or live on the first floor: Puppy Pads!

Basic equipment for your dog:

1. Lining (dry and wet)
2. Bowl (food and water)
3. Leash, collar and harness
4. Blanket (sleeping place)
5. Toys (chewing and distraction)
6. Puppy Pads

Learn all the essentials here, with tips for times to eat and other interesting checklists for beginners and novices. Simply explained and free! Here is the A&O for the first trip, from the breeder to home and the first days with your puppy.

• Basic equipment puppy & dog

Toys and distraction for home

As you learned in the basic kit for your first puppy, it’s not important to have a lot of toys. Just three or four things for your puppy to chew on when he or she is busy. The most important thing for a puppy is you, the owner.

My little Pomeranian loves sticks, for example. Very simple pieces from the meadow!

Already on the third day she took a little stick home with her and since then she grabs a stick almost every time and if not, I take the one she liked the most while walking. She then chews on it for hours.

The stick doesn’t cost me a euro, it’s super fun for her and it’s an absolutely natural product.

Don’t buy your little puppy 20 or 30 plastic toys, take your own time and work with small things, a rope, a small soft toy and of course the good old sticks.

And now comes your very first day, you are back from the breeder and believe me your little puppy is absolutely knocked out! Everything is super new, including you, the entire environment, mom and siblings are gone. So focus right on one thing, a comfy place to sleep!

Warm and cosy, the sleeping place:

Sleeping, sleeping place and going to sleep

As you may have learned in the basic dog stuff, it doesn’t have to be a very creative sleeping spot either, for example, my little miniature Pomeranian sleeps on a simple fur. Of course, this is also especially cute because Pomeranians are super fluffy. Fluffy fur, fluffy Pomeranian, perfect and absolutely sufficient.

Optional: dog gate for the night

Build the sleeping place directly near you, so that your dog can see you, you also get when something happens. Now there are basically two options, one option is that you let your puppy, like me just sleep on a fur or that it is the second option, you buy a small dog gate.

The great advantage of such a dog gate is that your puppy can not move freely overnight in the apartment or in the house. Accordingly, his or her radius is very limited and you have quick access to all activities. More importantly, your dog is not housebroken to begin with. How could it be, it’s still a baby! So your puppy will have to learn how to go to the bathroom little by little. One thing I can promise you, you will clean up a lot of pee and a lot of poop, but it’s your dog and in fact, all of a sudden it doesn’t bother you at all. In the past, I would never have touched poop! But when your little pup poops, you just can’t stay mad at him or her.

Tip: Always clean up puppy’s little messes inconspicuously, so that you don’t pay any special attention to them. Your puppy will gradually learn to do his business outside when you take him for a walk. Your task is to have enough patience!

That’s why it’s so important to take your puppy outside regularly, right from the start. This way the little dog learns to do his business outside of the room he or she lives in. But more on that later! Let’s stay with day 1 for now.

Making wee-wee: Poop Piles & Co.

You brought your little puppy home safely from the breeder, you bought the basic equipment for your dog, your puppy had delicious food, enough water, a warm place to sleep and some toys.

Day 1 is something completely new for both of you and after you wake up, the, so to speak, real first day together begins!

Purchase, price and delivery

Our first day together was a Monday! Shortly after lunch break I took the time to pick up little Peppa from the breeder. When we got to know each other, her mum was also there.

The handover of the little ones took about 30 minutes, from the first hello, to the first caresses, to the official purchase contract. In the contract of sale, various details are recorded, of course the data of seller and buyer, as well as times of deworming or vaccination. By the way, breeders reserve a right of repurchase. If the puppy does not do well with the new owner, they can get the little dogs back quickly and easily.
So that you are well prepared for the first ride home, you should buy the most important accessories right away.

• Time: Handover approx. 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Purchase price: 2.500 Euro (Pomeranian, Miniature Spitz)

This is what your 1 day looks like!

That’s kind of what your first day looks like! She or he will be super knocked out and sleep a lot.

How long does it take for your dog to grow up?

Before we get to the basic equipment, here’s a question you ask yourself right from day 1, how long will it take for your dog to be fully grown? As a rule, you can expect a year, then doggy is fully developed. That is, from puppy to adult dog, you have about 1 year of joy with your puppy – that is: play, sleep, play, sleep, sleep, play and sleep!

This is my little Peppa! Pomeranian (dwarf spitz) as a puppy on the first sunny day:

My little Pomeranian was white on day 1, like a little polar bear. Now after 10 days it is slowly getting a little more reddish. Let’s see if the little one looks like a fox later!

This is how my puppy might look one day, as an adult Pomeranian (dwarf spitz):

Get to know each other, go out & buy accessories – Day 2

From now on, it’s about you guys getting to know each other and spending time together.

The first night: puppy is restless

The first night my puppy was super active and woke me up every hour. What to do? My tip for you: Talk in a calm voice and gently bring your little puppy back to sleep. If he or she refuses to sleep, let your puppy do it and be a good role model, keep sleeping. You’ll develop teamwork and your dog will learn from you too. Be a role model during the day, acting calm and level-headed, and in the evening too.

Your little puppy will get used to sleeping at night extremely quickly. Already on the second day she was much calmer and woke me up only 3x. After a week, she only made herself noticeable briefly, early at 5 o’clock.

By the way, this is also an indicator for you to say, “I have to pee! When your puppy gets restless, it can be a sign that he or she needs to relieve themselves. As a dog owner, you should ideally go out immediately, especially if you don’t have a garden and live on the 3rd, 4th, or even 5th floor.

Sleep in the bed? By the way, my puppy is not allowed to sleep in the bed. For hygiene reasons, for one, and also later I don’t want my dog to sleep in the bed with me. She should have her own place. As described above, I bought Peppa a soft fur that lies next to my bed, about arm’s length, so that in the evening, when she wakes up, I can stroke her briefly, look down and we’ll go back to sleep.

Sleep rhythm of the puppy in the first week:

1. Day – Restless, wakes you up every hour
2. Day – Calmer, wakes 3x, 4x
3. Day – 7th day, wakes only 1x, 2x

While we are on the subject of “restless” and that this can be an indicator for “walking the dog”. Every morning you have a new job: walking the dog.

The first visit to the meadow, the park, the forest

Your first visit together in the green, no matter if garden, meadow, park or forest is something new for both of you, like every day in the first week with your puppy.

Tip. Keep your walk times the same length (extending is ok)

From my experience, it’s best if you always take 15-20 minutes. Why? Your dog should learn to do his business outside, so that you don’t find pee and poo in the apartment. So don’t go back immediately after your puppy has done his business. If you do that, your dog knows “ok, if I wait longer to do it, I can stay outside longer”. So regardless of whether he or she has already done it, stay outside for a certain amount of time.

As a businessman I like to use the time to check the news, I look at current stock market prices and give her time to run around freely. Of course on her leash and in my radius (meadow). But she is free to play wherever and however she wants, with sticks, daisies, also with other dogs and people.

Getting to know dogs and other people

Puppies are cute! That’s a fact. So you will be approached by people, or rather your puppy and also dogs will say hello directly when you meet them. Dogs are curious, especially puppies.

It is very important for dogs to interact and play with other dogs. Dogs are pack animals and seek social interaction with people and with other dogs. I usually kneel on the ground when a dog comes and shows that he wants to go towards my puppy. This way my pup can retreat protectively if she wants, but can also sniff or even play with the other dog if she wants. So offer your puppy protection, but also let him or her choose quite freely if you judge the other dog to be harmless to him or her.

Tip. Especially for small dogs it is important, protect them from big dogs.

For example, let’s say a German Shepherd meets a Miniature Spitz puppy. Even if the adult sheepdog just wants to play, the puppy’s neck is still extremely sensitive and the consequence can quickly be that your puppy dies in the big dog’s play. My little Peppa still fit easily in my hand at 3 months old.

The first visit to the meadow, in the park, in the forest is thus certainly a complete success for both of you. And now guess what: Afterwards your puppy is knocked out again and will sleep for a long time.

Peeing Outside, Staying Alone & Co. – Day 3

New day, new challenge. Today we continue to get used to each other, to the walk and I leave the little one alone at home for the first time.

Morning routine: checklist

Start into the day! Day 1 was getting to know each other and picking them up from the breeder, day 2 we got to know the new home and the meadow in front of the apartment building. Today we want to solidify our routine. The day starts like this:

1. Cuddling after getting up / watching breakfast TV, about 30 minutes
2. Getting ready for the day / food (wet food) for her, getting dressed and brushing my teeth for me.
3. Put the harness on, put the bowl away and go outside.
4. Walking on the meadow, about 20 minutes with cappuccino for me
5. Way to the office, mostly worn, sometimes she already runs

That’s how our morning starts since then and until today. So the A&O is 1) love, 2) food and 3) walk.

Walk and pee cookies

You need to practice this process with your puppy every day. The sooner he or she gets used to you being out of the house on a regular basis, the sooner the little one will adapt to this possibility. Therefore, as with food, routine is important. Regular times will help your puppy become housebroken much faster.

In the beginning it is therefore worth going out every 2 hours. Of course, this is super easy if you have a garden. If your dog is already used to the green from the garden at the breeder, your puppy will go out almost automatically. If you’re not so lucky, train and walk frequently. Don’t worry if you can’t make it every 2 hours, I didn’t always have the option either. First, because we had 2 days of snow in April and it was just too cold and wet for the little one. She stayed indoors all day and I only carried her when, in my arms when going out. Nevertheless, it was important to me to go out, because so she learns, we are always outside.

At least (that’s how I do it) for small dogs:

1. In the morning after getting up
2. Noon
3. Evening
4. At night, before going to bed

Everything else is currently solved by the Puppy Pads or my dog toilet with meadow. For little Pomeraians this works well, after all their pee is so little, it would easily fit in a bottle cap. Their poop piles are, well, more like little chocolate bons from the grocery store. If you have a slightly larger puppy, such as a German Shepherd or Labrador, then you’ll definitely want to go out a little more often to keep your apartment or house clean.

Ideally, medium and large dogs:

1. In the morning after getting up
2. Morning
3. Noon
4. Afternoon
5. Evening
6. At night, before going to bed
7. During bedtime

Stay at home alone

How long can you leave a puppy alone? If you provide a safe environment, water in the bowl, you can practice being alone from the beginning. I also started on day 3 to take 30 minutes time out in the evening. Since then I always go for a walk alone in the evening.

Again, the secret is silence. Don’t make a drama out of goodbyes and reunions. Simply put, be “cool” about the situation. When you’re leaving the apartment or house, take advantage of a moment when your pup is distracted, such as playing or sleeping. When you come back, pet your dog and say hello, then go on about your usual business. Just follow through, it’s the best way for your dog to get used to the fact that when you’re not there, it’s not a drama, it’s just normal.

Again, I try to incorporate a little routine, the evening. She has played during the day, we have spent a lot of time together and just before going to bed, we will again spend a lot of time with each other.

Regarding the question: How long can you leave a puppy alone?

• Up to 1 hour, from my experience
• Start with small units of 5, 15 or 30 minutes
• Routine helps with habituation, example every evening after walking when the puppy is asleep.

Tip. If you are a cautious type yourself, you can also start like this: Leave the room for 5 minutes, for example, just make yourself a snack in the kitchen while the dog has no access, for example, because you have closed the living room door. Then come back, just as calmly and continue as if nothing had happened.

This is the fastest way to get your puppy used to being alone!

Teamwork, Love and Routine – Week 1

The rest of the first week you get to know each other. So that you understand in the next weeks already much better, “how the other ticks”. The most important tip, I hope you have also read out, you are master and mistress! The time you invest in the beginning, you save in the coming weeks.

One week vacation

So that you really have time and not distracted or even annoyed by hectic office life, maybe buy your dog exactly when you have taken 1 or 2 weeks off anyway. That way you can get up together, you can spend the day together and also the evening. Another 2 hours of cuddling in the morning? No problem! Reminder: you can a puppy, cuddling is at the top of the agenda.

The dog gets to know you, but even better, you get to know your pup too:

Leave me alone! Learn together

Your puppy is getting to know you and you are getting to know your puppy. Just like we talked about before, you can tell by restless actions (easiest case, your dog scratching at the door) that she or he needs to go for a walk. At first puppies are super affectionate, but after day 5, 6, 7, they also slowly develop a “leave me alone” attitude, which is great because that way you know it’s not going to be a full time job forever!

My favourite example: Peppa is sleeping and I want to stroke her. Immediately she stretches her legs, wiggles them around until I take my hand away again. Clear sign for: “Let me sleep”.

In such cases, just let your dog be a dog. He or she is not a stuffed animal and wants to have his or her peace and quiet, just like you. Be happy, because now you have time to do something for yourself.

Food for puppies: dry & wet food

Food for puppies – number 1 is food, especially for puppies. Later your dog gets food 3 times a day. In the morning, at noon and in the evening. Regularly, so that surely the little one gets used to the times and knows that there is food regularly.

Here directly a tip: Do not spoil your dog too much! That is, buy simple food, dry food (brackets) and wet food (food in cans) and do not change too often with “specialties”. If your dog only gets used to “delicacies” and constantly changing “delicacies”, he or she will quickly become picky. That is, keep it simple! Your dog needs you, your attention, love and care, not a 5-star menu.

Listen to Ella’s experience as a podcast here:

Wet food: morning and evening

In the morning and evening, give your puppy wet food, usually canned. Most dogs get meat, but vegetarian alternatives are also important.

• Wet food in the morning and evening
• Chicken, lamb, beef …
• Dry / wet food with vegetable content

For beginners, this is what wet food looks like in the bowl:

Dry food: noon

At noon you give your little puppy dry food, i.e. brackets. You mix the dry food with a little water. Similar to cooking rice, about 50:50, so the little brackets will be a little softer. This is important because your little puppy still has milk teeth.

• Lunchtime dry food
• Mix with 50% water

Bowl: food and water

Bowl – For food and for water your puppy needs two small bowls. The water bowl should always be well filled and constantly filled, so your dog can drink whenever he or she wants. Clean the bowls daily so that germs do not build up. Especially when your dog is young, you should make sure the environment is relatively clean. Again, though, it’s important to keep it simple. You don’t need a hygiene spray or anything else. After all, your dog will quickly get to know the first meadow near you and anyway constantly come into contact with the environment. The bowls you simply clean with water, so that they are clean and without residues when there is new food.

You need for your puppy:

1. Bowl for water
2. Bowl for food

What about treats?

What about treats? Again, the rule is, don’t spoil your dog. When you first buy treats, use them sparingly. Maybe only 3, 4 a day and only 1 at a time. Whenever your dog does something that you can reward. For example, when he pees on the absorbent mat (we’ll get to that in a minute), when he walks a few feet with you, or when he or she puts on the collar without complaining.

Tip: Don’t just buy small treats that your puppy will eat right away. There are also great snacks to chew on that will take your dog a long time, that he and she will have a lot of fun with, and that won’t fill him up so much. With the Pomeranian, chewing on a snack like this will last for days:

Dog insurance: illness and liability

You buy your first puppy and have no experience with dogs? Then you should think about one thing above all: insurance for your little four-legged friend. Just as you need health insurance in case something goes wrong, you should also have provisions for your dog. There are many good providers for this – read more here.

My tips, experience and recommendation:

• Insurance dog

Leash, collar and harness

Leash – number 3 in your basic equipment for the little puppy, is a leash with a collar or harness. Dogs react very differently to being put on a collar and/or harness in the first few days. Your leash should be relatively short for the first few weeks so that your dog is always in your control circle. Depending on where you live, rural or big city, there are different sources of danger. Puppies are active and want to learn about the world. If they are always near you, say a maximum of 3 meters in radius, you can see all the dangers, for example, even broken glass on the floor.

Get your puppy used to the collar right away

Work from day 1 with a collar and leash, so your puppy gets used to wearing it right from the start. So you have less difficulties later. Your puppy will, as a rule, wear a collar or harness from early to later. The sooner you get your puppy used to it, the better.

Tip: Work with harnesses as early as possible. Especially the region around the neck is delicate, especially with Pomeranians (Miniature Spitz). Collars are directly on the important vertebrae and a sudden, strong jerk on the leash can already cause injuries. So try to get your puppy used to a harness as early as possible.

• Collar in the first days and / or
• Dog harness as early as possible
• Short leash with maximum 3 meters

Harness: safety and stability

As you can see here in the picture, a dog harness provides even more protection for your pup:

Blanket and sleeping place (short)

Very important, of course, is a retreat, or the sleeping place for your puppy. It must be comfortable, safe and warm. But it does not have to be a big, special box or a dog basket, in fact is enough from experience a simple blanket, or what is also very nice, fur! Fur (artificial, of course) is especially nice if you have a small dwarf spitz, which is very fluffy in the first weeks, it looks especially cute. At the same time fur keeps nice and warm and provides a cozy base, whether carpet, stone or tile.

For the first ride, from the breeder to home, you should have at least a fluffy blanket.

Your puppy will most likely be separated from its mommy for the very first time today, most likely from its siblings as well. In addition, your dog may also be leaving the apartment and / or its own house and garden for the very first time. Your puppy is also for the very first time, for a longer time outside, especially if the way to the breeder is further.

So you should directly offer a cozy, warm feeling, a new home.

Toys (chewing and distraction)

Once you’re home with your pup, he or she will most likely be sleeping!

But as soon as they wake up, they want to be kept busy. That’s why you should have two or three small toys for your puppy at home right from the start. Again, I recommend simple toys, nothing too elaborate, not too much plastic.

Sticks from park & forest, instead of much plastic

You’ll be amazed how much dogs love simple sticks, for example, from the meadow (city) or from the forest if you live in the countryside.

No invented toy can compete with good sticks! The very most important thing for puppies, they want something to chew on. Something like a small rope, maybe a small plush toy. That’s enough, for the first days and weeks.

So you don’t need a lot of toys at all to make a dog happy, usually 2, 3, 4 toys are enough in the first few weeks.

The important thing in the first days and weeks anyway is that you (!) take time for the puppy!

Briefly summarized

• 2-4 toys for the start
• Later 5, 6 small toys are enough
• Puppy friendly, simple and chewable

Play, eat, sleep and routine: teamwork

Tip. It is also a good idea to take a few days off. This way you can get in tune with each other, from the morning routine, through the day and into the evening.

After only 7 to 10 days, you will get more and more used to each other as a team. For example, you will develop more and more a sense of when your little puppy wants to go to the toilet. Your puppy knows when to eat. You will see how your puppy sleeps and when he or she is active. The better you develop your Team Work already in the first days, the faster and easier it will be the further weeks, months and years!

And very important, for the first few weeks, is this:

Puppy Pads: absorbent pads for puppies

I myself have only heard of Puppy Pads in the pet supply store, from a friend. She said …

This is the ultimate insider tip for all puppies!

She was so right!

Puppy Pads are simple, absorbent mats that you can lay out (1x) at your home. When your dog pees on them, he will smell his pee the next time and will most likely use the same spot for his business.

The pads come in packs of 10 each and they last a few days. On the top they are absorbent for puppy urine, also for poop piles and on the bottom they are leak proof. Perfect for any type of home, from an apartment in the city to a detached house with a garden in the countryside.

What is at night? Dog gate

Puppies do in the apartment, be sure of it. Also, never be angry, just ignore it, do not pay attention to it. If you go out regularly with your puppies, or let him or her in the garden, they will automatically do little by little, outside their own home, their own retreat.

During the day you can accompany your puppy well in the, as soon as it becomes night and you sleep, there are only 2 options:

1. Absolute freedom
2. Tip. Cage or dog guard

Why? If you give your puppy freedom, you have the disadvantage that in the morning small mishaps will be distributed in the apartment / house. The advantage of the cage for the night or the small enclosure with fence, your puppy is always close and makes fast, no longer in the immediate vicinity. So a dog gate gives protection and helps to get used to times to pee.

So if you have a particularly active puppy, or you prefer to be a little more cautious than indulgent yourself, consider buying a grid for the evening. Many buy a grid for the first few weeks, especially at night, where the puppy spends time until morning. This has several advantages, one is you control where your puppy moves when you sleep. Also, as described, dogs don’t like to do their business nearby, so they also get used to holding out until morning.

I like fluffy fur and freedom

My little Pomeranian has, as described, only a fluffy fur to lie and that is absolutely enough. However, you have to live with the fact that you will find some traces of the night in the morning. So no poop and wet spots.

However, your little puppy will gradually get used to doing outside if you walk regularly. Puppy Pads, absorbent mats that you lay out, also help. Due to the fact that dogs look for places that have been marked before, there is a good chance that your dog will make to this mat more often.

Here’s what I do about that:

• Going out regularly, at least 3-5 times a day, depending on the weather conditions.
• Puppy pads for the business at home
• Tip. Dog toilet with meadow

Dog toilet with meadow

My little last secret tip for those who buy a puppy for the first time! There are toilets with artificial grass. On the one hand, it looks fancy, almost like a square, flat flower pot with freshly cut grass. On the other hand, it is like meadow for the puppy and accordingly your puppy likes to do his business here. Super practical. Likewise for cleaning. Once with the water hose or shower over it and it is ready for use again.

Very important here, you will also learn in the article, the first days with your puppy.

If your little puppy ever makes mistakes and pees or poops on the carpet, never be angry or yell.

After all, they are puppies, they can not yet control themselves as adult dogs. It’s exactly the same with us humans.

You should always stay calm so that your puppy gets used to peeing and pooping near you. This will also be important later when you walk your puppy. Little mishaps happen, just make them go away and don’t pay much attention to it.

Checklist: 6 things you must have on day 1!

These were my tips, from my experiences, for your puppy.

From the set up food for your puppy, wet food for eating in the morning and evening, at noon there is dry food (mixed with water). You have a bowl for food, one for water. With a leash and collar or harness you can go out with your puppy for the first time and for the night everything is safe at the sleeping place. For small mishaps, you have puppy pads.

Basic equipment for your dog:

1. Lining (dry and wet)
2. Bowl (food and water)
3. Leash, collar and harness
4. Blanket (sleeping place)
5. Toys (chewing and distraction)
6. Puppy Pads

Puppy moves in! Your first week

Buying puppies – What accessories do you need for your puppy around leash, bowl, sleeping place and food? Every year millions of little puppies are born and find a new home! Also with us there is now one, respectively two little puppies: Neppa & Peppa.

Walk the dog, stay alone & Co.

Thinking about getting a dog? If you have time to spare and love, then a little puppy is something wonderful. But, what do you have to consider?! Learn here about the everyday life with a little puppy: My first day with Peppa (Dwarf Spitz, or Pomeranian puppy), my first week and my experiences. If you’re thinking about getting a dog, here are the ultimate tips for the first week with your puppy and a few insider tips, like puppy pads, tips for walking and staying alone – all in the first week!

• Puppy moves in! Week 1

Dog as a pet: XXL Guide

Dog moves in! You have decided to get a dog, as a single, with your partner or even the whole family and you are thinking about getting a dog? There are millions of dogs in this country. They are among the most popular pets. Dogs breeds such as Labrador, French Bulldog, Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Pomeranian or Chihuahuas. How much does a dog cost? What does a dog like best? How does the dog realize that you love him? Many questions, here you will find the answers. From dog grooming and the first coat, to dog food (wet and dry), organic alternatives, but also tips on initial equipment, around leash, bowl & Co.

• Pet dog