So, you’ve got a Pomeranian or you’re thinking about getting one. These adorable fluff balls are known for their small size but enormous personalities. But here’s a burning question: Do they bark a lot? You’ve come to the right place to find out. This article will dig deep into why Pomeranians might be extra vocal and how you can manage this trait. You’ll even learn what to do if you’re considering professional help.
The Natural Instincts of Pomeranians: Are They Prone to Barking?
Before we jump to any conclusions, let’s get a grip on where Pomeranians come from. Would you believe these tiny guys are descended from sled and herding dogs? Yep, their ancestors had some pretty important jobs. Those instincts haven’t totally faded away. So, Pomeranians often feel like they have a job to do, even if it’s just keeping an eye out for you.
Studies have looked into dog barking, and small breeds like Pomeranians do tend to be more vocal. It’s kind of like how some cars have really loud engines even though they’re not that big. It’s just how they’re built. But that doesn’t mean they’re going to bark 24/7, just that they might have a quicker trigger than some other breeds.
Why Does a Pomeranian Bark So Much?
So, why does your Pomeranian bark? For starters, they’re very alert and notice everything. So if a leaf blows by the window, yup, they’ll probably bark. They could also be feeling a bit lonely or even be trying to tell you something.
Dogs, like people, have different personalities. Some Pomeranians may just naturally be more chatty. But don’t worry, it’s not an unbreakable habit. In fact, age can be a factor. Puppies are often more noisy because they’re still figuring things out. Older dogs might bark less as they settle into their routines.
The Impact of Excessive Barking
You love your Pomeranian, but the constant barking can be tough. It’s not just annoying for you but also for anyone who lives close by. Nobody wants to be the neighbor with the noisy dog, right?
Barking isn’t just loud; it can be a sign of stress or anxiety for your pet. Your Pomeranian is not doing this to annoy you. They’re trying to communicate something, and it’s important to listen. If the barking becomes a real problem, it can even lead to issues like damaged vocal cords in your dog. So this isn’t something to ignore.
How to Stop Pomeranian Barking
Ready for some peace and quiet? Great! Training your Pomeranian to bark less starts with understanding why they’re doing it. Once you’ve got that down, you can try different techniques. Treats work really well. When your dog starts to bark, get their attention and give them a treat when they quiet down. But don’t give it too quickly, or they’ll think they’re getting rewarded for barking!
There are also gadgets like anti-bark collars that make a sound to distract your dog when they start barking. These can cost anywhere from $30 to $100. Remember, not all dogs respond to the same training techniques, so you might have to try a few.
Training Tips for Pomeranian Owners
You’ve probably heard the saying, “practice makes perfect.” It’s the same with your Pomeranian. Consistency is key. You have to do the training every day. Try the “quiet” command. Every time they start to bark, say “quiet” in a firm voice. When they stop, give them a treat. Pretty soon, they’ll make the connection.
Crate training can also help, especially if your Pomeranian barks a lot at night. A crate can make them feel safe and secure, like they have their own little room.
Consulting With a Professional
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not be able to get your Pomeranian to stop barking. It happens. In that case, you might want to talk to a professional dog trainer. If you’re going this route, expect to spend at least $50 to $100 per session.
You could also talk to a vet, especially if you think your dog’s barking is due to some health problem. The vet can help figure out if there’s a medical reason for the excessive noise.
Conclusion
Owning a Pomeranian is a wonderful experience, full of fluff, fun, and yes, some barking. But now you know that their barking can be managed with some effort, patience, and occasionally, professional help. The trick is to understand your dog and work with them to create a quieter, happier life for both of you.
