6 Ways Yorkies Show They’re Boss of the House: Decoding Your Tiny Tyrant

Yorkies are known for their big personalities packed into tiny bodies. They’re often described as “big dog in a small package,” and for good reason. Their sassy, independent streak can be both endearing and frustrating.

One of the most common questions Yorkie owners have is: “Is my Yorkie trying to be the boss?” While their intentions are usually playful, Yorkies can quickly turn into little dictators if their dominance isn’t addressed early on.

This article will explore six common ways Yorkies assert their authority in your home and help you navigate the playful power struggles that come with owning this charismatic breed.

1. My Yorkie Doesn’t Let Me Sleep! Why Does He Wake Me Up Early Every Day?

You’re not alone. Yorkies are notorious for their early-bird tendencies. This behavior isn’t malicious – they’re simply trying to get your attention, often for food, playtime, or a walk.

Here’s why your Yorkie might be waking you up early, and what you can do about it:

• Hungry: Yorkies have small stomachs, and they need to eat frequently. Make sure your Yorkie has a consistent feeding schedule and that they’re getting enough food.
• Boredom: If your Yorkie doesn’t get enough mental and physical stimulation, they’ll likely find ways to entertain themselves, often by waking you up.
• Attention-Seeking: Yorkies are naturally social creatures, and they crave attention. If they’re not getting enough, they’ll try to get it by waking you up.
• Separation Anxiety: If your Yorkie is anxious when you’re away, they might be waking you up because they’re seeking comfort.

To address this issue, establish a consistent bedtime routine for your Yorkie and create a relaxing environment with a quiet space for them to sleep. Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. A tired Yorkie is a sleepy Yorkie!

2. My Yorkie Always Demands Attention. Is He Trying to Be the Boss?

Yorkies love attention, and they’re not shy about letting you know. While their demanding nature might be endearing, it can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t set boundaries.

Here are some tips for handling your attention-hungry Yorkie:

• Ignore unwanted behavior: If your Yorkie is jumping up on you, barking excessively, or trying to get your attention in a way that’s disruptive, ignore them. Only give them attention when they’re behaving appropriately.
• Provide structured attention: Instead of letting your Yorkie dictate when and how they get attention, schedule specific times for playtime, walks, and cuddling.
• Teach them basic commands: Training your Yorkie basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” will help you control their attention and redirect them when they’re getting too demanding.

By setting clear boundaries and providing positive reinforcement, you can teach your Yorkie that their attention needs can be met without resorting to bossy behaviors.

3. My Yorkie Steals My Food! Is This Normal Behavior?

It’s not uncommon for Yorkies to be tempted by your delicious-smelling food. They’re notorious for their scavenging habits and may view your plate as a delicious buffet. While stealing food might seem cute, it’s important to address this behavior early on.

Here’s why your Yorkie might be stealing your food:

• Hunger: If your Yorkie isn’t getting enough food, they might resort to stealing yours. Ensure your Yorkie is getting enough food and that their meals are consistent.
• Boredom: If your Yorkie is bored, they might find ways to entertain themselves, such as stealing food. Ensure they have plenty of toys and opportunities for play.
• Attention-seeking: Some Yorkies steal food for attention. By paying attention to their behavior, you’re inadvertently rewarding it.
• Poor training: If your Yorkie hasn’t been taught basic commands like “leave it” or “drop it,” they’re likely to steal your food.

To prevent food stealing, always feed your Yorkie in their own designated space, and avoid leaving food unattended. Teach them commands like “leave it” and “drop it,” and reward them for good behavior. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to training.

4. My Yorkie Barks At Me When I’m Eating! Why Is He So Rude?

It’s frustrating when your Yorkie barks at you during mealtime. This behavior can be very annoying, especially if you’re trying to enjoy a peaceful dinner. It’s not necessarily about rudeness, but rather a combination of factors, including:

• Hunger: Yorkies have small stomachs and get hungry quickly. If they see you eating, it might trigger their own hunger pangs, leading to barking.
• Jealousy: Yorkies can be possessive of their owners, and they might feel jealous if you’re paying attention to something other than them. It’s especially common when you’re eating.
• Attention-Seeking: Some Yorkies bark at you during mealtime to get your attention.
• Boredom: If your Yorkie is bored, they might bark to relieve their boredom.

To address this behavior, teach your Yorkie a “quiet” command and reward them when they’re silent. Make sure your Yorkie is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. Avoid feeding them while you’re eating to avoid associating mealtime with your Yorkie’s barking.

5. My Yorkie Doesn’t Listen to Me! What Can I Do?

Yorkies are intelligent but can be stubborn. Their independent nature can make training challenging, and they may sometimes choose to ignore your commands. While it’s important to be patient, it’s also essential to establish yourself as the leader in your home.

Here’s how to address your Yorkie’s lack of listening:

• Consistency is key: Be consistent with your commands and expectations. If your Yorkie doesn’t respond to your first request, try again in a calm and assertive voice.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward your Yorkie for good behavior with treats, praise, or petting. Positive reinforcement is much more effective than punishment.
• Engage their mind: Yorkies need mental stimulation, and a bored Yorkie is more likely to be disobedient. Provide them with plenty of interactive toys and puzzles.
• Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to train your Yorkie on your own, consider enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer.

Remember, establishing yourself as the pack leader takes time and effort, but it’s crucial for a happy and well-adjusted Yorkie.

6. My Yorkie Sleeps in My Bed. Should I Be Concerned?

Many Yorkie owners allow their dogs to sleep in their beds. While it might seem sweet and cuddly, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks.

Here are some pros and cons of letting your Yorkie sleep in your bed:

The decision of whether or not to let your Yorkie sleep in your bed is ultimately yours. Consider the benefits and drawbacks carefully, and make a decision that works best for both of you.

FAQ

Is it bad for my Yorkie to be the boss of the house?

While it’s normal for Yorkies to exhibit bossy tendencies, it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader to ensure a well-balanced relationship. A dominant Yorkie might be challenging to train and could become destructive or anxious.

How can I tell if my Yorkie is being dominant?

Signs of dominance in Yorkies include excessive barking, aggression toward other animals or people, resource guarding, and attempting to control your movements or activities.

What can I do if my Yorkie is already acting dominant?

If your Yorkie is exhibiting dominant behavior, it’s essential to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can help you develop a training plan tailored to your dog’s needs and help you establish yourself as the pack leader.

Is it okay to use punishment when training my Yorkie?

Punishment is not an effective or humane way to train dogs. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewarding good behavior, are much more effective and less likely to create fear or anxiety.

How much exercise does a Yorkie need?

Yorkies are active dogs and need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This includes walks, playtime, and mental stimulation through interactive toys and puzzles.

Is my Yorkie’s bossy behavior related to his breed?

Yorkies are known for their independent and stubborn personalities. These traits can contribute to bossy behavior, but it’s important to note that all dogs are individuals, and their personalities are influenced by genetics, environment, and training.

What are the signs of a happy and well-adjusted Yorkie?

Signs of a happy and well-adjusted Yorkie include being playful, affectionate, and responsive to your commands. They’re also typically relaxed and confident, and they don’t exhibit excessive barking or aggression.

Summary of Yorkie Bossy Behavior:

Yorkies are known for their big personalities, and their bossy tendencies can be endearing but challenging. This article has explored six common ways Yorkies try to be the boss of the house and how to address these behaviors.

By understanding your Yorkie’s motivations and employing consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can navigate the playful power struggles and enjoy a harmonious relationship with your furry companion.