Last Updated on 06/12/2025 by Denise Leo. Post first published on August 17, 2025.
Step back in time and explore the remarkable milestones that shaped the Pomeranian breed into the beloved companion we know today. From royal courts to the show ring, from ocean liners to viral fame — Pomeranians have left their tiny paw prints across history in the most surprising ways.
This page celebrates the “firsts” — the groundbreaking moments, historic achievements, and fascinating trivia that highlight the evolution of the Pomeranian. Whether it’s the first champion, the first specialty show, or the first Pom to survive the Titanic, these pioneering pups paved the way for the breed’s enduring popularity.
Join us as we uncover the little-known but unforgettable “firsts” in Pomeranian history — because even the tiniest dog can make a mighty mark.
🏆 1. First Pomeranians Were Much Larger:
Early Pomeranians weighed up to 30 pounds (13 kg) — more like today’s German Spitz — before being selectively bred smaller during Queen Victoria’s time.
🏆 2. Queen Victoria’s First Pomeranian:
Queen Victoria’s first Pom was named Marco, imported from Italy in 1888. He weighed around 12 pounds, much bigger than today’s show Poms, but he started the trend toward breeding smaller Poms.
🏆 3. Early Pomeranians Exhibited:
The exhibition history of Pomeranians in England dates back to the mid-19th century. The very first English dog show was held in 1859 in Newcastle, followed by another significant event in 1861 at the Belle Vue Zoo in Manchester.
During these early shows, Pomeranians were entered under various classifications. Mr. Bennett owned a Pomeranian Fox Dog that was shown and won in the Non-Sporting Foreign Dog class. That same year, Mr. J.H. Seed exhibited his Pomeranian, “Jack,” at a dog show in Birmingham. Following the event, he offered Jack for sale at the price of ten guineas, reflecting both the dog’s value and rising interest in the breed at that time.
🏆 4. 1891, The Pomeranian Breed Recognized by The English Kennel Club:
The English Kennel Club officially recognized the Pomeranian in the late 1800s. On February 11th, 1891, the first dedicated Pomeranian Club was formed by nine founding members during the Crufts Dog Show at the Agricultural Hall. This marked a significant milestone in the breed’s history and formal development in the UK.
🏆 5. Development of the Pomeranian Breed Standard:
The original Pomeranian breed standard was established in 1898. In 1909, a revised and significantly improved standard was introduced. This updated version was the result of a meeting held at the Pet Dog Show, where representatives from all existing Pomeranian Clubs collaborated to refine and unify the breed’s official description.
🏆 6. First Pomeranian Champion:
The first Pomeranian to win a Champion title in England was Ch. Rob of Rozelle, registered in 1898. He was a white Pom — early Poms were often white or cream.
🏆 7. First Pomeranians on the Titanic:
Two Pomeranians survived the 1912 Titanic disaster — one belonged to Margaret Hays and another to Elizabeth Rothschild. They were among only three dogs to survive.
🏆8. 1912 Formation of the First USA Regional Specialty Club :
The Western Pomeranian Club, the first regional Pomeranian specialty club, was established in Chicago, Illinois, by Mrs. Hebden.
🏆 9. 1926 — First Group Win at Westminster:
Glen Rose Flashaway, owned by Joseph Greenwood, made history in 1926 as the first Pomeranian to win a Group I placement at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
🏆 10. First Pomeranian Best in Show at Westminster:
A Pomeranian named Great Elms Prince Charming II won Best in Show at the 1957 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a massive win for the breed.
🏆 11. First Pomeranians in the U.S.:
Pomeranians arrived in the United States in the late 1800s, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1900.
🏆 12. First AKC Registered Pomeranian:
The first Pom registered with the AKC was Dick, listed in the late 19th century, soon after breed recognition.
📜 13. 1910 — The First USA Specialty Show
The first Pomeranian specialty show was held in 1910 with an impressive entry of 138 dogs. English judge Mrs. L.C. Dyer awarded Best of Breed to a black dog, Champion Banner Prince Charming.
🏆 14. First Toy Group Best in Show:
Pomeranians have been among the first toy breeds to consistently place in Best in Show competitions once the AKC added the Toy Group category in the early 20th century.
🏆 15. First Pomeranian Internet Star:
Boo the Pomeranian, often called “the world’s cutest dog,” was one of the first dogs to go viral on Facebook in the 2010s, paving the way for dog influencers.
🏆 16. First Pomeranian in Space?
While no Pomeranian has gone to space, Pom fans love to joke that with their fluffy coats and star quality, they should have been the first space dog — but that honor went to Laika, the Russian dog (a different breed).
🏆 17. First Pomeranian Movie Appearances:
Poms have appeared in early Hollywood films — their small size and cute looks made them favorites for cameos in black-and-white movies even before they became social media stars!
🏆 18. First Book on Pomeranians:
One of the earliest books dedicated specifically to Pomeranians was written in the early 1900s, following the breed’s boom in popularity due to Queen Victoria.
🐾 In Conclusion
From royal palaces to historic dog shows and even lifeboats on the Titanic, Pomeranians have a long and fascinating history filled with memorable firsts. These tiny dogs have made a big impact — charming monarchs, earning championship titles, and capturing hearts around the world.
By celebrating these remarkable moments, we not only honor the legacy of the breed but also deepen our appreciation for the intelligent, spirited, and loving companions they are today.
Whether you’re a long-time Pom enthusiast or just beginning your journey with this extraordinary breed, we hope these stories of Pomeranian pioneers have inspired and delighted you.
✨ Stay curious, stay passionate, and keep celebrating the magic of the Pomeranian.
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References and Further Reading:
[1] Official Standard of the Pomeranian (AKC). American Kennel Club, 2011.
[2] English Kennel Club Pomeranian Breed Standard, 2017.
[3] Denise Leo, The Pomeranian Handbook.
[4] Milo G. Denlinger “The Complete Pomeranian.”
[5] Kimbering Pomeranians “1891-1991”.
[6] William Taplin’s “The Sportsman’s Cabinet.”
[7] E. Parker “The Popular Pomeranian.”
[8] Lilla Ives “Show Pomeranians.”
