I'm planning on getting a Pomeranian next summer. I've done lots of research and the biggest problem with them is barking. I've read on many websites that you can train a Pomeranian to not bark so much, but they never say how. Does anyone have any experience with this at all? I know every dog is unique, but small breeds tend to bark, and I really need to learn how to make it stop barking if it does want to. I need to stop the habit before it starts. Help?

Dog barking is a natural form of communication.


It is not done to annoy you nor make the lives of your neighbours miserable. When a dog barks it is telling you something. It could be anything from anticipating delivery from the mailman, to becoming excited by nearby commotion, to warning you of something unusual outside and to alerting you of his basic needs (ie. I'm hungry, I'm thirsty etc). So preventing barking all together would be unreasonable and unrealistic. However, there are certainly things you can do to help prevent excessive barking.


Ensure that you revise your check-off list. Has he been outside to potty? Has he been fed? Does he have water? Did I walk him today for his daily exercise? Is there something in the room or outside that is taunting him (ie. cat in the window)? It's important to remember that dogs will also bark out of boredom and to receive attention. That is why playtime and daily exercise is so vital - he must have that mental and physical stimulation.


For dogs that bark out of aggression (not alerting), it may be wise to enroll him into some basic training that enforces commands, teaching him what behaviours are acceptable and unacceptable. It is common with smaller breeds to have that "big dog" syndrome and display excessive/aggressive barking. Tackling this at an early age with basic obedience training will prove very helpful in preventing this unwanted behaviour.


Good luck.

I know most of that stuff already...I'm talking about the excessive barking. I don't know what basic obedience training is, and that's what I'm trying to find out. Your answer was very detailed, but vague where I needed an answer most. D:

I'll break down the "basic obedience training" for you


Enroll your dog into classes. Especially if it's a puppy. You can check out places like Petco or PetsMart for this. These classes teach all the basic things new pet owners and new pups "need to know". This includes appropriate times to bark (ie. on command) and when it's not appropriate. There are many sites online that give you step-by-step direction on executing this: barking on command.


You're probably asking yourself "Why do I want to teach him to bark?"


Answer: Because during this process you'll also teach him when to be QUIET.


And here's a link that'll give you instruction in "how to".

I wish you lots of luck. I had one years ago and he barked all the time. Not so much in the house but when he was outside. We never did figure out how to make him stop. A muzzle works. They are also hard to house break.

Well, if they are really that difficult, then what breed should I look into getting as a new owner?

I've heard goldfish don't bark... OR, if you're ok with a bigger dog, how about a retired Greyhound? OR, a dog from a rescue with a good support group.

well you can't stop your dog from barking..it's like you have your son and you want stop him from talking

Not really. When I would tell my children to stop doing something they understood and obeyed.

Originally Posted by LynLynn

Well, if they are really that difficult, then what breed should I look into getting as a new owner?

Look into Japanese Chins. They are small, smart, clean, calm and QUIET. I have two and never heard them bark at all until they were 18 months old...and then it was because I'd brought a Maltese into the house who barked at EVERYTHING and the chins finally got caught up in the excitement of rushing out to the front gate and barking at people passing by.

My neighbor across the street also has a Chin and she will bark when someone approaches the house after dark, but is quiet the rest of the time, which is pretty much what you want.

Chins are the easiest dogs in the world to look after. They look a bit goofy, but they are true lap dogs...90% of the time they are in your lap (or right next to you) and the other 10% they are running laps. They are suited to apartment living, or small yards, they don't require a lot of exercise or grooming and they are natural clowns (the famous chin-spin). They are extremely social and have very few health problems (if they have been properly raised and looked after) and they are so loving they will leap with joy whenever they see you, even if you're just returning from the bathroom

Thanks for all the advice and support. And to those of you who are saying that making a dog not bark at all is impossible, I agree-- and it's not what I want. I'd like minimal barking, I'm not saying I don't want the dog to be a dog. Don't misunderstand and say that I'm wishing for something impossible, I just don't want unnecessary barking. You say making a dog not bark is like telling you're son not to talk. Dogs that bark when necessary is fine, but you don't want your dog barking excessively, just like you wouldn't want your son talking back to you.

I have a Pom puppy. I can't give alot of advice because shes a puppy and ive not had her long BUT I can say just because theyare small dogs dont mean they will bark alot. Ive had small breeds before. I also have a yorkie - poodle mix. I was told she would yap alot but never does. They only time she barks is when someones here. As for my Pom shes not been a barker either. I dont think she will be either.Although I havent used these they make bark collars. I wouldnt worry too much. Good luck.

Personally, I find Poms the most irritating dog breed as they bark continuously and in such a shrill manner that it does disturb everyone around. I agree that barking is a way of communication for dogs and they should be allowed to, but certain breeds that bark non-stop for no reason are not my personal choice. If you like big dogs, why don't you go for a labrador? They're loving, gentle and also are good if you're looking for safety too. That's my opinion.

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