How to Teach a Pomeranian to Heel
Teaching a Pomeranian to heel is a rewarding challenge that harnesses their bold, inquisitive nature while channeling their moderate energy productively. Pomeranians are famously independent thinkers with a trainability score of only 3/5, meaning they require patient, consistent reinforcement and motivating rewards to maintain focus. Their tendency toward excessive barking and small-dog syndrome makes loose-leash walking particularly important—a well-heeled Pom is less likely to lunge, bark at distractions, or pull ahead. This guide uses positive-reinforcement methods to build heel precision without frustrating your spirited companion. Since Pomeranians need about 30 minutes of daily exercise, structured heel training serves dual purposes: mental stimulation and physical activity in a controlled, manageable format.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish High-Value Motivation
Before any heel work, identify irresistible treats—small, soft pieces that your Pomeranian can consume quickly without much chewing. Since Poms can be easily distracted by their surroundings, use ultra-motivating rewards (chicken, cheese, or specialized training treats) rather than kibble. Test different rewards in a quiet room to find what truly captures your dog's attention.
- 2
Train Focus and Attention Indoors
Start in a quiet, distraction-free room to build the 'watch me' or 'focus' command. Reward your Pomeranian heavily whenever they make eye contact with you, using a marker word like 'yes!' immediately before treating. Practice for 5–10 minute sessions daily; Poms have short attention spans, so brief, frequent sessions work better than long ones.
- 3
Teach the Heel Position at a Standstill
Lure your Pomeranian to your left side using a treat held at your hip, getting them to sit or stand beside your left leg. Reward heavily for any positioning close to your leg. Once they understand the position while stationary, practice standing for a few seconds with them in heel position before rewarding, gradually extending the duration.
- 4
Walk Slowly and Reward Frequently
Take one or two steps forward while your Pomeranian stays at your left side, then immediately stop and reward. Keep walks short—just 10–20 steps at a time initially. Pomeranians' small stature means your pace should be leisurely; rushing or using tension on the leash triggers their stubborn streak and may provoke barking.
- 5
Introduce Mild Distractions Gradually
Once reliable indoors, practice in a quiet outdoor area (like a backyard) before busier environments. Pomeranians are prone to excessive barking at stimuli, so if your dog fixates on another dog or noise, calmly redirect attention back to you with a focus command and reward. Never punish barking; instead, reward quiet, focused behavior intensely.
- 6
Extend Duration and Environmental Complexity
Over 2–4 weeks, gradually increase walking distance and introduce busier environments (parks, sidewalks). Continue frequent rewards for heeling; consistency is essential with independent-minded Poms. If you notice a regression or stubborn behavior, return to an easier setting and rebuild confidence before progressing again.
Pro tips
- Keep treats smaller than a pea—Pomeranians' toy-sized mouths mean tiny rewards allow more repetitions per session without overfeeding.
- Train before walks or outdoor time, not after. A Pomeranian who's already pent up may be too excitable to focus; a briefly exercised Pom is often calmer and more trainable.
- Use a cheerful, encouraging tone throughout; Poms pick up on frustration easily and may shut down or double down on stubborn behavior if they sense annoyance.
Frequently asked questions
My Pomeranian pulls constantly and barks at other dogs during walks. How does heel training help?+
Heel training builds focus on you rather than environmental stimuli, reducing pulling and reactive barking. By rewarding your Pomeranian heavily for maintaining position and eye contact, you're giving them a 'job' that competes with barking and pulling. Consistent practice teaches them that staying close and calm yields the best rewards.
How often should I train, and how long should sessions be?+
Aim for 5–10 minute training sessions, 1–3 times daily. Pomeranians have limited attention spans and can become frustrated or stubborn during long sessions. Multiple short sessions build consistency without burnout and fit well into their 30-minute daily exercise requirement.
What if my Pomeranian refuses to cooperate or seems bored?+
This is typical Pomeranian independence (trainability 3/5). Switch to a higher-value reward immediately, keep sessions shorter, or take a 1–2 day break. Avoid repeating commands or showing frustration, as Poms often respond by doing the opposite. Return to heel training with renewed enthusiasm and fresh treats.
Can I use a retractable leash for heel training?+
No; use a 4–6 foot fixed-length leash. Retractable leashes encourage pulling and don't provide the structure needed to teach heel position. A standard leash gives you better communication and helps your Pomeranian understand boundaries clearly.