Pomeranian Won't Stop Barking? Here's What's Making It Worse

Fritz, a Pomeranian mix, charges the fence and barks at every dog that walks by. His owner Manuela tries to calm him with affection, but affection given in the wrong moment rewards the wrong state of mind. Cesar Millan teaches her to claim her yard with calm, confident corrections and to save affection for the calm behavior she wants more of.

In the same episode of Better Human Better Dog, Cesar helps Victoria, recovering from a car accident that broke both of her legs, choose between three rescue dogs at his ranch, and shows why energy, temperament and compatibility matter more than breed, size or looks.

• Affection at the wrong time rewards the wrong state. Comforting a barking dog reinforces the barking.
• Claim the space. Calm, confident corrections at the fence tell the dog the territory is yours to protect.
• Save affection for calm. Reward the relaxed behavior you want to see more of.
• Choose the dog that fits your energy. Cesar believes adopting the wrong dog for you is the number one cause of aggression.
• Introduce dogs to cats calmly, with structure and patience.

How do you stop a dog from barking at the fence?

Stop comforting the barking, calmly claim the yard with confident corrections, and give affection only when the dog is relaxed.

Why does my small dog bark at every dog that passes?

Often the dog believes it must guard the territory and the owner's affection during barking reinforces that state. The fix is leadership, not more comfort.

How do you choose the right rescue dog?

Look at energy, temperament and compatibility with your lifestyle, not breed, size or looks.