Pomeranian Puppy Essentials: Preparing Your Home for a Miniature Spitz
Waiting for a Pomeranian puppy is an exciting time, and the perfect opportunity to prepare your home and buy the essentials.
A Pomeranian at home
Bowls: there is a wide range available. Choose a size suitable for a miniature breed. You need two: one for water and one for food. Materials include metal, plastic, glass and ceramic; ceramic bowls are our favourites. Because bowls must be kept clean and your dog should always have access to clean water, we do not recommend double bowls.
A bed: another essential, it should be comfortable and practical. A removable, machine-washable cover is very useful. Place the bed somewhere quiet but close to everyday family activities.
Toys and chews: choose XS-sized balls and soft toys. Avoid soft toys with plastic eyes, noses or other parts that could be swallowed or cause choking. Chews keep dogs occupied, meet their need to chew and, when chosen appropriately, help oral hygiene. Pay particular attention to quality. We recommend unprocessed, natural, dried (not smoked!) chews. As Pomeranians are small, account for chews in their daily food allowance.
2. A Pomeranian travelling and walking
A carrier bag: a Pomeranian’s size makes it easy to take along to many places. On public transport or trains, it may travel free of charge when carried in a suitable bag.
There is an enormous choice of designs and materials, but the most important question is: is the bag safe and comfortable for our dog?
When choosing, consider:
- How easily can the dog be put in and taken out?
- What prevents it from falling out?
- Ventilation: will it have enough air when the bag is closed?
- Suitability for the weather: will a thick, insulated bag make the dog too hot?
- Comfortable handles: can you carry it comfortably for a longer period?
A harness and lead: essential items for your Pomeranian. Miniature Spitz dogs are delicate, so we recommend a harness rather than a collar. A poorly fitting harness can rub and mat the coat, making quality important. More substantial harnesses should have satin or another smooth lining and edging; alternatively, choose thin straps. To protect the coat, do not leave the harness on for long periods.
Puppy Angel and Puppia are brands worth considering.
Car travel: online shops for small dogs offer car seats. A seat that is firmly secured to the vehicle seat provides a comfortable resting place with raised sides; attaching the dog by its harness helps keep it secure.
Never place dogs in seats or carriers resembling baby carriers! Dogs should not travel or remain for long periods in an upright position; it is unhealthy and very uncomfortable for them.