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Beware of Pomeranian Puppy Scams: How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Fraud
The popularity of Pomeranians has made them a top target for online puppy scams. These schemes are unfortunately common, with fraudsters preying on eager buyers searching for their perfect furry companion.
As a Pomeranian breeder, I often hear from heartbroken Pom Moms and Dads who fell for one of these scams. Fake websites, social media posts, and classified ads may appear legitimate, but they deceive well-meaning families out of their money.
In this guide, I’ll help you recognize common red flags, protect yourself from scams, and take action if you’ve been targeted.
How Do Puppy Scams Work?
The Most Common Tactics
Scammers create fake listings using stolen photos and videos from real breeders. They promise purebred Pomeranian puppies at prices that seem too good to be true. Often, they offer deep discounts for quick sales or include free shipping to push urgency.
When someone shows interest, the scammer demands untraceable payments like gift cards, Green Dot cards, Western Union, Money Gram, Zelle, or Cash App.
What Happens After you pay?
Some scammers disappear as soon as they receive payment. While no one wants to be scammed, this type at least ends quickly—leaving you to realize what happened before more money is lost.
Others keep the scam going. They may ask for additional fees for insurance, vaccinations, or a special carrier. Eventually, some invent emotional stories claiming the puppy was impounded and will be euthanized without another payment.
This is the most heartbreaking kind of scam. Victims feel they’ve already invested too much to stop and cling to the hope that just one more payment will finally bring their puppy home.
How to Spot a Pomeranian Puppy Scam
Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True – Pomeranian puppies from reputable breeders are expensive due to proper breeding, healthcare, and socialization efforts. Scammers often make up sad stories of how they aquired the pomeranian and cannot take care of it. They say they only want the Pom dog/puppy to go to a good home. This sounds plausible to pay a small fee under these circumstances. Many people jump at the chance to send the money as quickly as possible before they miss out on such a great opportunity.
Stock, Stolen, and Photoshopped Images – Scammers frequently use stock photos or steal photos from real breeders. They also edit images with photo editing software to alter the image so that it cannot be found on reverse image search. They also do this to make the puppies appear even cuter than they already are. These photoshopped images often shrink the puppy’s face and enlarge and darken the eyes to create an exaggeratedly adorable look. (Example of Photoshopped Pomeranian Puppies)
Use of Fake Stuffed Animal Photos – Believe it or not, I have even seen some scam sites and advertisements that use photos of an ultra-cute stuffed animal, passing it off as a real Pomeranian puppy. (Example of Pomeranian Stuffed Animals.)
No Phone Calls or Video Chats – Legitimate breeders are proud to show you their puppies live on video. Scammers avoid this and may only provide pre-recorded clips or stock images. If they won’t speak with you directly or offer a live video call, be suspicious.
Pushy and Urgent Sales Tactics – Scammers pressure you to act fast, claiming someone else is ready to buy the puppy. They often bombard you with messages and demands for payment, hoping to stop you from researching or thinking clearly.
Strange Payment Methods– Never send money through services that don’t offer buyer protection. Trusted breeders use secure payment methods and are transparent about deposits and balances.
Suspicious or Poorly Designed Websites – Many scam sites look generic, with inconsistent details and vague contact info. They often use low-resolution images or duplicate text across pages.
Teacup Pomeranians- The term “teacup” is not an official size classification by the AKC or any reputable registry. It’s often used as a marketing ploy—especially by scammers. Learn more in my in-depth article “The Truth About Teacup Pomeranians.”
How to Avoid Puppy Scams Online
Research the Breeder – Choose breeders with real websites, strong social media presence, and visible reviews. Look at the comments on their posts and see how they interact with followers.
Ask for Live Video Proof – Ask for a live video call with the breeder and the puppy. Most scammers can’t provide this because they don’t have the dog at all.
Verify Contact Information – Legitimate breeders have a working phone number, a professional email address, and an established business presence.
Check for Scammer Reports – Look up the breeder’s name, phone number, or email address along with the word “scam” to see if others have had bad experiences.
Visit in Person – It used to be standard to visit a breeder in person. But in recent years, there’s been a rise in breeders being robbed or harmed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many breeders transitioned to using video calls for safety. Most breeders, including myself, will no longer go back to putting their dogs, families, and/or self in a potentially dangerous situation.
Use Secure Payment Methods – A reputable breeder will allow you to pay securely, often with a deposit to reserve your puppy and the balance due at pickup or delivery. Always avoid cash apps, gift cards, or wire transfers.
How to Know If You’re Getting Scammed When Buying a Pomeranian Puppy
If you suspect a scam, consider these questions:
Is the seller rushing you to pay?
Do they refuse to provide vet records or AKC documentation?
Are they unwilling to share a video of the puppy in real-time?
Does the seller’s website lack breeder information or a phone number?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, reconsider before proceeding with the purchase.
Where and How to Report a Puppy Scam
If you have encountered a scammer, report them to prevent others from falling victim.
Better Business Bureau (BBB): https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker
Federal Trade Commission (FTC): https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): https://www.ic3.gov
Local Law Enforcement: Contact your local police department if you have been defrauded. It is unlikely that they will be able to do anything to get your money back; however, it is valuable for the police to be informed of scams to educate people about new scams.
Facebook & Social Media Platforms: Report fraudulent accounts and pages through their respective reporting systems.
Stay Safe When Buying a Pomeranian Puppy
Pomeranian puppy scams are everywhere, but knowledge is your best defense. If something feels off, trust your instincts.
At Belle House Pomeranians, we’re proud to offer ethically bred, AKC-registered Pomeranian puppies backed by transparency and care. If you have any questions about how to safely bring home a Pom, please reach out.
Stay informed, stay safe, and never rush when it comes to adding a new furry family member.