Pom Training Tips

Question
Hello,

I am asking for some training tips for POM's.  We recently added one to our family and I'm not sure how to train him :

a.) not to bite
b.) not to bark (we live in an apartment)

Housebreaking is going great!  Crating is going great (ok the odd wail but all in all:) )

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

thanks,

Cherie

Answer
Hi Cherie,

There are two methods I like to use, treats for quiet and social isolation for barking. If the dog won't stop barking when someone comes over to visit (after two or three barks) warn him with, "If you don't stop barking, your going in the bedroom". If he doesn't stop--put him in the bedroom (or whatever room you choose) and shut the door. Leave him in there for about a minute. Then offer to let him out if he'll be quiet. If he won't be quiet put him back in there again for another minute or so. Dogs hate to be socially isolated from their pack so this method usually works. It works on my pom! He can't stand it if I am in the next room and he can't be with me. The treat method works good too. You really have to be persistant to change this type of habit. Some poms love to bark.

If he is barking while you are gone, he could be bored and/or lonely.  You need to give him more exercise.  The saying goes, "A tired dog is a good dog", and this is very true.

This website explains treats for quiet:
http://www.perfectpaws.com/bark.html

These websites have the information you need regarding puppy biting:

http://www.wagntrain.com/PlayBiting.htm
http://www.executec.com/bite.htm

Best Regards,
Carrie
PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS.