Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, but excessive barking can be a problem, especially for Pomeranians. These little dogs can be prone to reactive barking, where they bark excessively at strangers or other dogs. This behavior can be frustrating for owners and stressful for the dog. There are several strategies that can be employed to help a Pomeranian stop reactive barking, ranging from training techniques to changes in the dog’s environment. In this article, we will explore 10 effective strategies that can help reduce or eliminate reactive barking in Pomeranians.
⚠️ Note: While the tips below should get you started, its important to realize that your Pomeranian’s excessive barking is symptom of reactivity. Consider looking into an online training course that specifically addresses reactivity (we like SpiritDog’s “Tackling Reactivity course or K9 Institute’s Dog Masterclass)
1. Identify and Understand Your Pomeranian’s Triggers:
The first step to addressing reactive barking is to identify the specific triggers that cause your Pomeranian to bark. Observe your dog closely to determine what situations or stimuli provoke their barking, such as encountering other dogs, strangers approaching, or loud noises. Once you understand the triggers, you can develop a targeted plan to address the issue.
2. Desensitize Your Pomeranian to Triggers:
Desensitization is a gradual process that involves exposing your Pomeranian to their triggers at a comfortable distance, allowing them to become more accustomed to the stimulus without reacting. Over time, you can slowly decrease the distance between your dog and the trigger, always rewarding calm behavior. This process helps your dog become less reactive to the trigger, ultimately reducing their barking.
3. Use Counter-Conditioning with Your Pomeranian:
Counter-conditioning is another technique that can help change your Pomeranian’s emotional response to a trigger. By pairing the trigger with something positive, such as treats or toys, your dog can begin to associate the stimulus with a positive experience rather than fear or anxiety. Over time, this can reduce your dog’s reactive barking.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement with Your Pomeranian:
Reward your Pomeranian for remaining calm and quiet in situations where they would typically react with barking. Consistently offer praise, treats, or affection when your dog displays appropriate behavior in response to their triggers. This positive reinforcement helps your dog learn that there are better ways to cope with their triggers than barking.
5. Teach Your Pomeranian the “Quiet” Command:
Train your Pomeranian to understand and respond to the “quiet” command. When your dog starts barking in response to a trigger, calmly say “quiet” and wait for them to stop. As soon as they are silent, immediately praise and reward them. Repeat this process consistently until your dog associates the command with the desired behavior.
Related: What online dog training program does iHeartDogs recommend for reactive barking?
6. Redirect Your Pomeranian’s Attention:
When your Pomeranian begins to bark reactively, try redirecting their attention to a more productive activity. Offer a favorite toy, initiate a training session, or engage in play to refocus their energy. This helps your dog learn that there are alternative ways to react to stimuli, rather than barking.
7. Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation for Your Pomeranian:
A well-exercised and mentally stimulated Pomeranian is less likely to engage in reactive barking. Ensure your dog receives enough physical activity and mental stimulation daily through walks, play sessions, and interactive toys. This can help reduce pent-up energy and frustration, which can contribute to reactive barking.
8. Create a Calm Environment for Your Pomeranian:
A chaotic or noisy environment can exacerbate your Pomeranian’s reactive barking. Create a calm and quiet space for your pet, with a comfortable bed and designated area for their toys. Use calming scents, like lavender or chamomile, and soothing sounds, such as classical music or white noise, to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
9. Manage Your Pomeranian’s Environment:
While you work on addressing your Pomeranian’s reactive barking, consider managing their environment to limit exposure to triggers. This may involve using window films to obscure your dog’s view of passersby, creating a designated “safe space” for your dog to retreat to, or using baby gates to restrict access to areas with high trigger exposure. Managing your dog’s environment can help reduce their reactive barking while you work on implementing other strategies.
10. Try an Online Dog Reactivity Training Course
If your Pomeranian’s reactive barking continues despite your efforts, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
2 online dog training programs we like are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Tacking Reactivity” Course
The SpiritDog Tackling Reactivity Course is an online training program designed to help dog owners address their dog’s reactive barking without the need for expensive in-person training. The course aims to help owners understand their dog’s triggers and teaches techniques to calm and accommodate reactive dogs. Developed by experienced dog trainer Steffi Trott, the program offers video lessons, instructional PDFs, quizzes, and access to trainers for support.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just an obedience course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
10 Reasons Why a Pomeranian Might Be Reactive Barking
- Fear and anxiety: Pomeranians are known to be anxious and fearful dogs and may bark excessively when they feel scared or threatened.
- Territorial behavior: Pomeranians can be possessive of their owners and may bark aggressively to protect their territory or home.
- Separation anxiety: When left alone, Pomeranians may bark excessively due to separation anxiety.
- Attention-seeking behavior: Pomeranians may bark excessively to gain the attention of their owners or other people.
- Lack of socialization: Pomeranians that have not been socialized with other dogs or people may bark excessively when they encounter strangers or other dogs.
- Frustration and boredom: Pomeranians that are bored or frustrated may bark excessively to release pent-up energy or frustration.
- Medical issues: Certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems or pain may cause Pomeranians to bark excessively.
- Breed tendencies: Pomeranians are bred as watchdogs and may bark excessively as part of their natural instincts.
- Excitability: Pomeranians may become overly excited and bark excessively during play or when they are happy to see someone.
- Environmental factors: Loud noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks may trigger Pomeranians to bark excessively out of fear or anxiety.
In conclusion, reactive barking is a common issue among Pomeranians that can be caused by various reasons, such as fear, anxiety, territoriality, and boredom. However, there are numerous effective strategies that can be implemented to help prevent and manage this behavior. These strategies range from proper socialization and training to using positive reinforcement techniques and providing mental and physical stimulation. With patience, consistency, and dedication, Pomeranian owners can successfully address their dog’s reactive barking and ensure a happy and healthy relationship with their furry friend.
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Toledo, United States.
