Buying a Pomeranian: Costs, Breeders & Tips [2026]

A Pomeranian weighs about as much as a full pot of coffee, yet carries the confidence of a guard dog beneath its fluffy coat. It's no wonder that this breed—often known internationally as the Pomeranian—is one of the most popular small dog breeds in Germany. If you're planning on buying a Pomeranian, it pays to take a close look beforehand: prices vary wildly, reputable breeders differ significantly from backyard breeders, and the breed comes with a few health considerations you should be aware of. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase.

Why the Pomeranian is so popular

The Pomeranian is the smallest variety of the German Spitz and belongs to one of the oldest dog breed groups in Central Europe. Despite their small stature—males typically reach 20 to 22 cm at the withers, females about 18 to 20 cm, weighing around 2 to 3.5 kg—they are anything but fragile lapdogs. Spitz breeds are alert, playful, eager to learn, and reliably alert you when someone approaches the door.

This combination makes them ideal companions for people looking for a small, lively dog with plenty of personality—even in a city apartment. It's important to note: that thick double coat requires regular grooming, and their alert nature needs to be engaged and consistently trained. A Pomeranian isn't a low-maintenance accessory, but a confident little dog with clear needs. You can find more about their temperament and care in the Pomeranian breed profile.

How much does a Pomeranian cost? Price and ongoing expenses

The most common question upfront is: What does a Pomeranian cost from a reputable breeder? In Germany, prices for Pomeranian puppies with papers from responsible breeders typically range between 1,800 and 3,500 euros. Puppies from successful show bloodlines can cost even more. The price isn't random; it reflects genuine costs.

What drives the Pomeranian price up:

• Health screenings of the parents – Patella, eye, and general veterinary checks cost money but protect against expensive hereditary diseases.
• Breeding approval and club membership within the VDH framework, including litter inspections and pedigrees.
• Rearing – high-quality food, multiple vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and plenty of time for socialization.
• Lineage and show success of the parents.

An offer significantly below 1,000 euros should raise red flags: such prices often indicate backyard breeders, imported puppies, or animals without proper health care. What you save on the purchase price, you'll often end up paying double at the vet.

Beyond the purchase price, there are ongoing costs. Plan for a solid double-digit amount monthly for food, grooming, vaccinations, deworming, dog tax, and liability insurance—plus occasional vet visits and an emergency fund. Pet insurance is worth considering for a Pomeranian, as some breed-specific procedures (such as knee or dental work) can be quite expensive.

Recognizing reputable breeders – and avoiding backyard breeders

The most important step when you want to buy a Pomeranian or acquire one from a German breeder is choosing the right person. A reputable breeder welcomes your questions and will ask you at least as many in return.

Here’s how to spot a good breeder:

• You are allowed to visit the puppies with their mother in their usual environment—not in a parking lot or a car trunk.
• The breeder proactively shows you the health certificates of the parents and the pedigree.
• The puppies move out no earlier than eight to twelve weeks old and are microchipped, vaccinated, and dewormed.
• There is a written contract, and the breeder remains available for advice even after you've taken the puppy home.
• Only a few litters are produced per year—breeding is a passion, not a factory line.

Warning signs of a backyard breeder are the opposite: multiple breeds available at once, no access to the mother dog, hand-offs in neutral locations, pressure to make a quick decision, no papers, and suspiciously low prices. Ignoring these signs often supports puppy mills operating under inhumane conditions. A trusted resource for organized breeding is the VDH breeder search.

Health: Topics and tests you should know

The Pomeranian is generally a robust breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. However, like many small breeds, they have a few known vulnerabilities you should specifically ask about:

• Patellar luxation – the kneecap slips out of place; a common issue in small dogs.
• Tracheal collapse – the windpipe can become unstable and narrow during breathing, often noticeable by a coughing or wheezing sound.
• Dental and gum problems – the teeth are crowded in a small jaw, making tartar buildup and tooth loss common.
• Alopecia X (Black Skin Disease) – a breed-typical, usually symmetrical hair loss with causes that are not fully understood.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and other joint issues common in small breeds.

A responsible breeder can at least provide a patella certificate and an eye exam report for the parents and will be open about the breed's known risks. Ask to see the documents instead of relying on verbal assurances—no one can sell a dog as "guaranteed healthy," but good preventive care measurably lowers the risk. You can also find an overview of breed-specific health topics on the Pomeranian health page.

Is a Pomeranian really right for you?

Before you reserve a Pomeranian puppy, be honest with yourself. This breed is a good match if:

• you are prepared to brush the coat several times a week and care for their teeth regularly;
• you enjoy a lively, communicative dog—Spitz breeds love to bark and need early training to keep it in check;
• you have time for training, play, and companionship; the Pomeranian wants to be part of the action, not sit alone in the apartment;
• you are aware of the ongoing costs and the responsibility over 12 to 16 years.

This breed is less suitable if you are looking for a completely quiet, low-maintenance dog that stays alone for long periods—or if small children in the household might unintentionally overwhelm the delicate dog. Despite their puppy-like appearance, a Pomeranian is a real dog with a strong character, not a toy.

Alternative: Adopting a Pomeranian from a shelter

Not every Pomeranian has to be a puppy from a breeder. Spitz dogs and Spitz-mixes often end up in shelters or breed rescue groups—sometimes because owners underestimated the grooming needs or the pronounced guard instinct. Adoption is often cheaper than buying a puppy, and you give a dog a second home. Adult animals also have the advantage that their personality and size are already established. Check with local shelters or keep an eye on HonestDog for dogs looking for a home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Pomeranian cost from a reputable breeder?

In Germany, prices for a Pomeranian puppy with papers and health-screened parents typically range between 1,800 and 3,500 euros. Offers significantly below 1,000 euros often indicate backyard breeders or a lack of health screening.

Is a Pomeranian the same as a Zwergspitz?

Yes. "Pomeranian" is the internationally common name for the Zwergspitz, the smallest variety of the German Spitz. Both terms refer to the same breed.

How long do Pomeranians live?

With good care, Pomeranians typically live to be 12 to 16 years old, making them one of the longer-lived dog breeds.

Which health tests should a breeder provide?

Ask for at least a patella certificate and an eye exam report for the parents. A reputable breeder will also talk openly about breed-specific topics like tracheal collapse and dental health.

How much grooming does the coat need?

The thick double coat should be brushed several times a week, and more often during shedding season. Regular dental care is also a fixed part of the routine for this breed.

A Pomeranian can be a loyal, lively companion for over a decade—provided you start with a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder or give a home to a dog in need from a shelter. Take your time, ask questions, and don't let a low price pressure you into a decision. On HonestDog, you'll find vetted breeders and breed information to help you make the right decision calmly and honestly.