How to Teach a Pomeranian Tricks
Teaching a Pomeranian tricks requires understanding this breed's lively, bold personality paired with moderate trainability. While Pomeranians are intelligent and enjoy mental stimulation, their independent streak and high barking tendency can make training sessions challenging. The key is channeling their natural extroversion and curiosity into fun, engaging trick work. Unlike more obedience-focused breeds, Pomeranians respond best to games and entertainment rather than rigid drill work. This guide progresses from foundational tricks like shake and roll over to exciting trick chains that satisfy their need for activity and attention. Short, positive-reinforcement sessions paired with their daily 30-minute exercise routine will keep them engaged and prevent frustration. With patience and consistency, your Pomeranian can master an impressive repertoire of tricks while you manage their barking and small-dog syndrome tendencies through structured, rewarding training.
Step-by-step
- 1
Master the Shake Trick to Build Confidence
Start with shake since Pomeranians naturally use their paws. Lure a treat near their chest, say "shake," and gently touch their paw to guide it into your hand. Reward immediately and enthusiastically to capitalize on their love of attention. Practice 2-3 minute sessions before daily exercise when they're focused.
- 2
Teach Roll Over Using Lure and Reward
With your Pomeranian lying down, hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move it over their shoulder to encourage them to roll. Say "roll over" during the motion and reward generously. This trick requires patience—Pomeranians may need multiple short sessions over several days before grasping it. Never use force; let curiosity do the work.
- 3
Build Impulse Control Before Chaining Tricks
Pomeranians' high barking tendency and bold nature mean they may jump ahead or get overexcited between tricks. Introduce a "wait" cue with brief pauses between shake and roll over. Reward calm behavior and silence, which also helps address excessive barking by giving the behavior an off-switch during training.
- 4
Create a Trick Chain with Shake-Roll Over-Spin
Once both shake and roll over are solid, introduce spin (lure them in a circle with a treat). String the three together: shake → wait → roll over → wait → spin. Keep chains to 3-4 tricks initially, as Pomeranians' moderate energy means short attention spans. Celebrate each completed sequence with high-value treats and praise.
- 5
Use Short, High-Energy Sessions to Prevent Boredom
Pomeranians bore easily despite being trainable (3/5). Schedule 5-10 minute training sessions immediately before or after their 30-minute daily exercise. This timing capitalizes on their lively nature while preventing the frustration that leads to barking or small-dog syndrome behaviors like nipping or stubbornness.
- 6
Practice Trick Chains in Different Environments
Once your Pomeranian masters tricks at home, practice in low-distraction outdoor settings (quiet backyard, park). Their inquisitive, extroverted temperament means novelty can derail focus, but varied practice prevents boredom and builds reliability. This also channels their boldness productively instead of toward territorial barking.
Pro tips
- Use tiny, high-value treat pieces (pea-sized): Pomeranians' toy size means standard training treats are overwhelming and ruin appetite. Small pieces of chicken, cheese, or specialized tiny treats keep them focused without overfeeding.
- Train immediately after their 30-minute daily exercise: A lightly tired Pomeranian is more focused and less likely to be distracted by barking impulses or small-dog syndrome stubbornness. Their moderate energy means this sweet spot lasts about 15-20 minutes.
- Practice in short bursts and celebrate wildly: Pomeranians are extroverts who crave attention and entertainment. Use enthusiastic verbal praise, gentle petting, and play as rewards alongside treats. This satisfies their need for interaction and keeps trick training fun rather than tedious.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Pomeranian bark constantly during training sessions?+
High barking tendency is normal for this breed. If barking intensifies during training, take a break—they may be overstimulated. Reward silence between tricks with quiet praise and lower-value treats. Never reward barking with attention. Consider training after exercise when their energy is lower.
My Pomeranian seems stubborn and won't repeat tricks consistently. Is this normal?+
Yes. Pomeranians have moderate trainability (3/5) and can be independent. This isn't defiance—they lose interest if training feels repetitive. Use higher-value treats (small pieces of chicken, cheese), keep sessions very brief (5 minutes), and rotate tricks frequently to maintain engagement and prevent "small-dog syndrome" attitude.
How long does it typically take a Pomeranian to learn a new trick?+
Most Pomeranians master a single trick like shake or roll over in 3-7 days of consistent practice. Trick chains take longer—expect 2-3 weeks depending on the number of tricks. Their moderate trainability means slower progress than high-drive breeds, but their extroversion helps keep them motivated.
Can I train my Pomeranian if they're anxious or wary of new situations?+
Yes, but go slower. Wariness is common in the breed. Start training in a calm, familiar space before introducing new environments. Use their favorite high-value treats, keep sessions short, and never push. Building confidence through small wins reduces anxiety and prevents nervous barking during advanced trick training.