How to Train a Pomeranian to Come When Called
Teaching a Pomeranian to come when called is one of the most valuable safety skills you can instill, especially given this breed's bold, inquisitive nature and tendency to chase anything that catches their attention. Pomeranians are intelligent but can be stubborn—their moderate trainability (3/5) means they need consistent, motivating practice rather than harsh corrections. Because they're prone to excessive barking and small-dog syndrome, a strong recall also helps prevent them from escalating confrontations with other dogs or bolting toward distractions. This intermediate guide uses positive reinforcement to build a reliable recall, turning your Pomeranian's natural extroversion and food-motivation into an obedience advantage. With patience and high-value rewards, your Pom will learn that coming to you is always the best choice.
Step-by-step
- 1
Start indoors in a distraction-free zone
Begin recall training inside your home or a quiet room where your Pomeranian has minimal distractions. Use their name paired with an upbeat word like "Come!" in a happy, encouraging tone—never stern, as this breed's bold but sensitive temperament responds poorly to harsh commands. Practice for short 5-minute sessions since Pomeranians have moderate energy and can lose focus quickly.
- 2
Use irresistible, high-value rewards
Pomeranians are food-motivated but will only respond consistently for something they truly love. Identify their favorite treat—small, soft pieces work best for their tiny mouths—and use it exclusively during recall training. Reward immediately and enthusiastically every time they come to you, creating a strong positive association with the command.
- 3
Build distance gradually and add mild distractions
Once your Pom reliably comes from across the room, slowly increase the distance and introduce minor distractions like a toy on the floor. Given their inquisitive nature and tendency to chase, this step is crucial for real-world safety. Practice both indoors and in a safely fenced yard, never in open areas until the recall is rock-solid.
- 4
Practice the "sit and reward" pattern
When your Pomeranian arrives after hearing "Come," immediately ask for a "Sit" before giving the reward. This teaches them that coming fully to you and settling is the goal—not just running in your direction. This pattern also channels their bold energy into controlled behavior rather than bolting away again.
- 5
Proof the recall in real-world scenarios
Gradually practice recall during your daily 30-minute exercise sessions—in the yard, on walks (with a long line for safety), or at dog parks. Because Pomeranians are prone to small-dog syndrome and excessive barking when overstimulated, a proven recall keeps them safe from reactive situations and prevents them from chasing after other dogs or distractions.
- 6
Maintain consistency and avoid recall punishment
Never call your Pomeranian to you for something they dislike (nail trims, medicine, car rides), as this ruins the positive association. Keep practice sessions consistent—3–4 short sessions per week—and always end on success with praise and a reward. This breed's bold personality means they'll simply ignore commands they perceive as unpredictable or unrewarding.
Pro tips
- Never recall your Pomeranian away from something fun without an even better reward waiting—this breed's bold, inquisitive nature means they'll choose the more exciting option if given a reason to.
- Use a 15–20 foot long line during outdoor proofing sessions; Pomeranians are tiny enough to escape most standard leashes, and their tendency toward small-dog syndrome can lead them into trouble with larger dogs or traffic.
- Practice recall before their 30-minute daily exercise session when they're slightly hungry and motivated; a tired, fully exercised Pom is often less food-motivated and more likely to ignore distractions out of stubbornness.
Frequently asked questions
My Pomeranian ignores the recall command when outdoors, even though they respond perfectly inside. Why?+
Outdoor distractions are far more exciting to your Pom's inquisitive, extroverted nature than a treat at home. Start proofing recall in low-distraction outdoor areas, use a higher-value reward than you use indoors, and practice on a long line for safety. Gradually increase distractions as reliability improves—this process takes weeks, not days.
Should I punish my Pomeranian if they don't come when called?+
No. Punishment will only make your Pom wary of you and less likely to return. This breed's moderate trainability means they learn best through positive reinforcement. If they ignore the command, calmly walk toward them and try again in a less distracting environment—training with patience yields much better long-term results.
How do I prevent my Pomeranian's excessive barking from interfering with recall training?+
Start training in calm environments where barking is less likely to trigger. If your Pom barks during practice, pause the session and wait for quiet, then resume. Reward calm responses to the recall command. Avoid training when they're overstimulated, and ensure they get adequate daily exercise (30 minutes) to reduce overall excitability.
Can I use a whistle or clicker instead of a verbal "Come" command?+
Yes. Clickers and whistles can be very effective, especially for this breed—a whistle is harder to ignore than a voice in distracting environments, and a clicker provides precise timing of rewards. Train the same way: pair the signal with an immediate, irresistible reward repeatedly. Some owners use both a whistle and a verbal cue for extra reliability.