Everyone wants a happy and healthy Pomeranian! However, without proper training, this wish simply will never come true.

Despite their size, Pomeranians are arrogant, stubborn, and highly intelligent. This makes for a dog that can be quite difficult to train. Basic obedience problems are the biggest problem with these dogs. Barking at your house guests, making noise for any little thing that is out of place (an untrained dog can even go crazy just because there is a bird outside the window or because a package was left).

If your dog’s obedience problems are severe enough, he may even bite (or “bite”) strangers, or you if you try to discipline him or tell you what to do. Fortunately, all of this can be controlled with a little work, provided you use the proper techniques.

There are several guides and articles on “Train Pomeranian” on the Internet, but unfortunately there are many factors that make Pomeranian different from other dogs, and much of the “one-size-fits-all” information you find online simply won’t work. In this case.

Domination is the most important factor. By nature, poms tend to feel like they are the bosses, and you are the one who should listen to them. It is this confidence that gives this breed its distinctive personality. However, you must establish the domain right now and go from there. You will be surprised how many negative traits (barking, biting, grunting, etc.) will be eliminated once you know that you are the boss and have given it a firm “No!” every time he misbehaves to show him that you won’t tolerate him.

It should be noted that no matter how serious the dominance issue you are facing, you should never use force or be aggressive (no matter what!). The Pomeranian is a very small and delicate dog and can be easily injured. For that reason, stick only to verbal training methods. If you intend to train Pomeranian puppies, this information is even more important to remember.

The only exception to this is that in cases where you need to get the dog’s attention or make it listen, you can do a “Psst!” sound while tapping him gently on the hip. Note that a “touch” is not a push or a hit. Do not use more force than you would when hitting a friend on the shoulder to greet them.

Only once you’ve established the domain can you move on. Start with a basic command, like “sit.” Always use positive reinforcement, as that is the key method to be able to train Pomeranian breeds. If the dog sits every time you say “sit”, you can move on to the next command. If you hear “sometimes” or “when you feel like it,” you have not yet established the proper authority and should continue to work with him.

When training your dog to follow commands, don’t use a harsh voice and never scold him for not listening. Patience and perseverance are the key here, and the last thing you want to do is instill a negative mental association with yourself by giving an order.

Make sure to reward your Pom with a scratch on the head and a treat every time he hears you. After a while, you will listen without as much positive reinforcement, but it’s important to provide great reward-based motivation when starting out.