Pomeranian Training Tips That Will Change Your Pet’s Behavior Forever

Training your Pomeranian is essential for ensuring that you have a well-behaved and happy companion. Pomeranians are known for their lively and sometimes challenging personalities, but with the right approach, you can transform their behavior. This article provides effective training methods specifically tailored for Pomeranians, addressing common behavioral issues like barking, chewing, and separation anxiety. It also offers step-by-step instructions for basic obedience training, housebreaking tips, and strategies for socializing your Pomeranian.

Understanding Pomeranian Behavior

Pomeranians are small, intelligent dogs with big personalities. They are often alert, active, and can be quite vocal. Their size might make them seem easy to manage, but their high energy levels and strong-willed nature require patient and consistent training. Understanding your Pomeranian’s behavior is the first step toward successful training.

Common Behavioral Issues and Solutions

Barking

Barking is one of the most common issues with Pomeranians. They bark for various reasons, including boredom, excitement, or as a way to get attention. To address this, it’s important to identify the triggers and address them appropriately.

Identify Triggers: Observe when and why your Pomeranian barks. Is it when someone knocks at the door, or during playtime?
Ignore Barking: If your Pomeranian barks for attention, ignore the behavior until they stop. Then reward them with praise or treats for being quiet.
Teach Commands: Teach commands like “quiet” or “stop” using positive reinforcement. Reward your dog when they obey.

Chewing

Pomeranians, like many puppies, tend to chew on everything within reach. Chewing is part of their teething process and helps them explore their environment. However, it can become problematic if not managed properly.

Provide Appropriate Toys: Give your Pomeranian plenty of chew toys designed for teething. Rotate toys regularly to keep them interested.
Deter Unwanted Chewing: Use bitter-tasting sprays on items you want to protect from chewing.
Redirect Chewing: When you catch your Pomeranian chewing on something inappropriate, redirect them to an appropriate toy and praise them for using it correctly.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is another common issue among Pomeranians. They can become distressed when left alone, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

Gradual Separation: Gradually increase the time you spend away from your Pomeranian. Start with short absences and slowly build up to longer periods.
Create a Safe Space: Provide a comfortable, safe space where your Pomeranian can relax when you’re not home. Consider using a crate with a soft bed and some toys.
Desensitize: Desensitize your Pomeranian to the cues that signal your departure, such as picking up your keys or putting on shoes. Practice these actions without leaving, so your Pomeranian learns they don’t always mean you’re going away.

Basic Obedience Training

Teaching your Pomeranian basic commands is crucial for establishing control and communication. Here are some steps to follow:

Sit

Show your Pomeranian a treat and hold it above their head, prompting them to sit.
As soon as they sit, say “sit” and give them the treat.
Repeat several times each day, gradually reducing the use of the treat as your Pomeranian understands the command.

Stay

Start with the “sit” command, then hold out your hand and say “stay.”
Take a few steps back and wait for a moment before returning to your Pomeranian and rewarding them for staying in place.
Increase the distance and duration over time as your Pomeranian becomes more comfortable with the command.

Down

Hold a treat close to your Pomeranian’s nose and move it down towards the ground.
As they lower their body to reach the treat, say “down” and reward them.
Practice this command in different environments to ensure reliability.

Come

Use a leash to start teaching the “come” command in a distraction-free area.
Call your Pomeranian by their name followed by “come,” and reward them with treats and praise when they return to you.
Gradually introduce distractions and increase the distance to test their reliability.

Housebreaking Tips

Housebreaking a Pomeranian requires patience and consistency. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Establish a Routine: Take your Pomeranian outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
Praise and Rewards: Praise and reward your Pomeranian immediately after they eliminate outside.
Be Consistent: Use the same command every time you take your Pomeranian outside to eliminate.
Address Accidents: If an accident occurs indoors, clean it thoroughly to remove any scent. Avoid punishing your Pomeranian, as this can create fear and anxiety.

Socializing Your Pomeranian

Socialization is vital for Pomeranians to help them become well-adjusted and friendly dogs. Early socialization can prevent aggression and fearfulness later in life.

Expose Gradually: Introduce your Pomeranian to new people, animals, and environments gradually. Keep initial interactions positive and short.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm and friendly behavior around others.
Attend Classes: Enroll in puppy classes or training sessions that focus on socialization.

Maintaining Consistency and Positive Reinforcement

Consistency is key in training your Pomeranian. Use the same commands and rewards every time to avoid confusion. Positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and affection, is highly effective in encouraging desired behaviors.

Avoid common training mistakes like inconsistency, using punishment instead of positive reinforcement, and expecting too much too quickly. Patience and persistence are crucial in achieving lasting results.

The Long-Term Benefits of Consistent Training

The long-term benefits of consistent training extend beyond just having a well-behaved pet. For the owner, a well-trained Pomeranian means less stress and more enjoyable interactions. For the pet, it leads to a happier and healthier lifestyle. Training strengthens the bond between you and your Pomeranian, fostering trust and mutual respect.

With dedication and the right techniques, you can significantly improve your Pomeranian’s behavior. Remember, every Pomeranian is unique, so adapt these tips to suit your individual dog’s needs. By following these training tips, you’ll set yourself and your Pomeranian up for a lifetime of happiness and companionship.