How to train pomeranian not to bark?

Pomeranians are tiny balls of energy with big personalities, and their barks can be just as loud as their attitudes. While a little vocalization is normal for any dog, excessive barking can strain relationships with neighbors, disrupt your home, and even lead to issues with local ordinances. Understanding why your Pom barks is the first step toward helping them stay quiet when it matters most.​

Most Pomeranians bark to communicate—they might be excited to see you, alerting you to a stranger at the door, or feeling anxious when left alone. Their keen hearing means they’ll pick up on sounds you might miss, like a squirrel in the yard or a car pulling into the driveway, and they feel compelled to let you know. Sometimes, boredom plays a role too; these intelligent dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay content, and a lack of it can turn into nonstop barking.​

Start by identifying the triggers. Keep a notebook for a few days, jotting down when your Pom barks—Is it during specific times of day? When certain people or animals pass by? Understanding the pattern helps you address the root cause instead of just reacting to the noise. For example, if they bark at delivery people, you can work on desensitizing them to that scenario.​

Positive reinforcement is key with this breed. Pomeranians thrive on praise and treats, so reward them heavily when they stay quiet in situations that usually set them off. If the doorbell rings and they don’t bark, offer a small, tasty treat and enthusiastic pets. Consistency is crucial here—everyone in the household needs to follow the same rules, so your dog doesn’t get confused by mixed signals.​

Teach the “quiet” command gradually. When your Pom starts barking, wait for a natural pause, then say “quiet” in a calm, firm voice. As soon as they stop, give them a treat and tell them how good they are. Repeat this exercise daily, gradually increasing the time between the command and the reward. Over time, they’ll learn that silence brings good things.​

Socialization from a young age can work wonders. Exposing your Pom to different people, animals, and environments helps them feel more confident and less likely to bark out of fear or uncertainty. Arrange playdates with other calm dogs, take them on walks in busy parks, and let them meet friendly strangers (always asking permission first, of course). A well-socialized Pom is a more relaxed Pom, and a relaxed Pom barks less.​

Exercise is another secret weapon. Pomeranians have more energy than their size suggests, and a tired dog is a quiet dog. Aim for at least two short walks a day, plus interactive playtime with toys that challenge their minds, like puzzle feeders. Burning off that excess energy reduces the urge to bark out of frustration or restlessness.​

It’s important to remember that punishment rarely works with Pomeranians. Yelling or scolding can make them more anxious, which often leads to even more barking. Instead, stay patient and focus on redirecting their behavior. If they start barking at a bird outside, call them over to you, offer a toy, and engage them in a different activity to shift their attention.​

Be mindful of local laws regarding noise. Many areas have regulations about excessive barking, especially during early mornings or late evenings, and repeated complaints could lead to fines or other consequences. Being a responsible owner means taking steps to keep your dog’s barking in check, not just for your sake but for the community around you.​

Training takes time, especially with a breed as spirited as the Pomeranian. Some days will be better than others, and that’s okay. Celebrate the small wins—a quiet moment when the mail arrives, a calm response to a neighbor walking by—and keep working at it. With patience, consistency, and lots of love, your Pom can learn to save their barks for when they really need to be heard.