How to Get a Pom From Barking So Much

Pomeranians, or poms, are members of the toy dog group. They are primarily companion animals who are friendly, bright, and devoted to their owner. Unfortunately, this combination of loyalty and intelligence means your pomeranian may be more likely to bark at visitors and passersby than other breeds. If your pom's frequent high-pitched yips has frazzled your last remaining intact nerve, there are things you can do to get your dog not to bark so much.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Crate
  • Old towel (optional)
  • Interactive dog treats
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Exercise your dog. Walk your pomeranian more often -- 20 to 30 minutes twice a day at minimum. Enroll yourself and your dog in an obedience or agility class -- the physical and mental stimulation will tire your pet. Take your pom with you in the car as you go to the bank drive-thru and drop mail off at the drive-up mailbox. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog, and a sleeping pomeranian won't bark.

    • 2

      Crate your dog. If your pomeranian is barking incessantly at people or cars passing by the window when you are not at home, crate your dog. Place the crate in a place where your dog cannot see outside; lay an old towel over part of the crate to help block your pet's view if you need to. Throw some treat-dispensing dog toys into the crate to amuse your pom in your absence. Reducing the bark stimulation will reduce the barking.

    • 3

      Train your pomeranian. Teach your pom that barking for half an hour when someone visits is unacceptable. Have a friend help train your dog by ringing the doorbell and waiting patiently. When your pom has a barking fit at the door, don't open it until your pet is quiet for 5 seconds. Treat your dog and open the door. If the barking resumes, shut the door and wait for 5 seconds of quiet before rewarding. Eventually your dog will learn that greeting your guests with quiet behavior earns yummy treats, and the barking episodes will diminish.