10 Ways Yorkies Show Their Herding Instincts

Yorkies, with their charming personalities and compact size, are often seen as lapdogs. However, these little bundles of energy can surprise their owners with their unexpected herding instincts. Their ancestors were bred to herd larger animals, and those instincts are still ingrained in their DNA. While they may not be rounding up cattle or sheep, you can still see their herding tendencies in their everyday behavior.

Understanding these instincts can help you better understand your Yorkie and provide them with the right environment to thrive. This article explores 10 common ways Yorkies show their herding instincts. These can include behaviors like nipping, barking, circling, and even herding objects around the house. We’ll also discuss ways to encourage these instincts in a safe and positive way and explore how to address any issues they may cause.

1. Why does my Yorkie herd my feet?

Have you ever noticed your Yorkie nipping at your heels, barking, or even circling your feet as you move around the house? This behavior is a classic example of herding instincts. Your Yorkie sees your feet as “moving objects” and feels the urge to direct them, just like their ancestors did with cattle or sheep. They might be trying to keep you in a particular place or simply trying to control the movement of their “flock.”

It’s important to remember that this behavior is usually harmless. However, if it becomes excessive or aggressive, it’s essential to train your Yorkie to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable. Positive reinforcement training, using treats and praise, can help redirect their energy and teach them more appropriate behaviors.

Here are some tips to help your Yorkie with herding instincts:

• Provide plenty of physical and mental exercise. A tired Yorkie is less likely to engage in herding behaviors.
• Train them to stay close to you with the command “Heel.” This will help them understand their position in your “pack” and lessen the urge to herd you.
• Use a leash or harness when walking to help you control their movements and redirect them if they start to herd you.
• Offer them a safe and stimulating environment where they can express their instincts. A small playpen with toys, for example, can be a great place for them to herd their own “flock” of toys.

2. What are some ways to encourage a Yorkie’s herding instincts?

While herding instincts can sometimes lead to unwanted behavior, there are ways to encourage these instincts in a safe and positive manner. It’s important to channel their energy into activities that allow them to express their innate herding tendencies without causing stress or harm to themselves or others.

Here are some ways to encourage your Yorkie’s herding instincts:

• Agility Training: Agility courses provide a structured environment where your Yorkie can practice their herding skills. They’ll need to navigate obstacles, follow commands, and use their natural instincts to succeed.
• Obedience Training: Obedience training teaches your Yorkie to respond to commands. This can help them learn to control their impulses and channel their energy in a productive way.
• Interactive Games: Games like fetch or hide-and-seek encourage your Yorkie to use their herding instincts in a fun and stimulating way. They’ll need to track the ball, follow you, and use their speed and agility to win.
• Herding Toys: Special toys designed for herding breeds can provide a safe outlet for your Yorkie’s herding instincts. These toys may include objects they can chase, move, or manipulate.
• Herding Classes: If you’re serious about helping your Yorkie develop their herding skills, consider enrolling them in a herding class. These classes are specifically designed to teach herding techniques and help your Yorkie channel their instincts in a controlled and positive way.

Remember, the key is to provide your Yorkie with the proper environment and opportunities to express their herding instincts in a way that’s safe, positive, and beneficial for both of you.

3. Why does my Yorkie bark at other dogs?

Yorkies, with their herding instincts, might bark at other dogs not only for dominance but also because of their desire to control the environment. Their barking might be a way of “rounding up” the other dogs, keeping them in a particular place or directing their movement. This can be especially true if your Yorkie is feeling anxious or uncertain in a new environment.

To understand their barking, it’s helpful to observe their body language. While some Yorkies might bark aggressively with their tail wagging low and ears flattened, others might be more playful with their tail wagging high and ears perked. Understanding the context of the barking can help you determine the underlying reason.

Here are some tips to address your Yorkie’s barking:

• Socialization: Expose your Yorkie to various dogs in a controlled environment, allowing them to interact with different breeds and personalities. This will help them learn to understand and respond to other dogs in a positive way.
• Training: Teach your Yorkie the “Quiet” command and reward them for remaining calm when other dogs are present. This will help them learn to control their barking.
• Distraction: Offer your Yorkie a toy or treat when they start barking at other dogs. This can help them focus their attention on something else and redirect their energy.
• Confidence Building: Ensure your Yorkie is confident in their environment. This can help reduce anxiety and decrease the urge to bark.

4. Do Yorkies have a strong prey drive?

Yorkies, despite their small size, often have a strong prey drive. This is another example of their herding instincts, as they were originally bred to chase and control smaller animals. This drive can manifest in different ways, from chasing squirrels in the park to nipping at their toys.

It’s important to train your Yorkie to understand that chasing and nipping at other animals is unacceptable. Positive reinforcement training can help teach them to redirect their energy and focus on you instead. Here are some ways to manage their prey drive:

• Training: Teach your Yorkie the “Leave it” command and reward them for ignoring other animals. This will help them learn to control their impulses.
• Leash Training: Always keep your Yorkie on a leash when walking in areas where other animals might be present. This will give you control over their movements and prevent them from chasing other animals.
• Safe Environment: Ensure your Yorkie’s environment is safe and secure, especially when they are outside. This will prevent them from encountering animals that trigger their prey drive.
• Play and Exercise: Provide your Yorkie with plenty of play and exercise to help them channel their energy in a positive way.

5. How can I stop my Yorkie from herding my feet?

While herding instincts are natural for Yorkies, it can be frustrating when they constantly nip at your heels or try to herd you around the house. Fortunately, there are several ways you can address this behavior.

First, you can use positive reinforcement training to teach your Yorkie to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable. When your Yorkie starts to nip or bark at your feet, calmly and firmly say “No” and redirect their attention with a treat or toy.

Here are some other tips to help your Yorkie with herding instincts:

• Provide plenty of physical and mental exercise. A tired Yorkie is less likely to engage in herding behaviors.
• Train them to stay close to you with the command “Heel.” This will help them understand their position in your “pack” and lessen the urge to herd you.
• Use a leash or harness when walking to help you control their movements and redirect them if they start to herd you.
• Offer them a safe and stimulating environment where they can express their instincts. A small playpen with toys, for example, can be a great place for them to herd their own “flock” of toys.

Remember, patience and consistency are key to success. It takes time and effort to redirect your Yorkie’s herding instincts, but with the right training and understanding, you can create a harmonious relationship with your furry friend.

6. Do Yorkies have a herding instinct?

Yes, Yorkies do have herding instincts, even though they are not typically considered herding dogs. Their ancestors, the Yorkshire Terriers, were bred to herd rats and other small animals in the coal mines of Yorkshire, England. These instincts are ingrained in their DNA and can manifest themselves in various ways, even though they are not herding large livestock.

While Yorkies may not be rounding up cattle or sheep, you can still see their herding tendencies in their everyday behavior. This can include behaviors like nipping, barking, circling, and even herding objects around the house. They may also try to control the movement of their “flock” of humans and other pets.

Understanding these instincts can help you better understand your Yorkie and provide them with the right environment to thrive.

If you’re unsure whether your Yorkie is displaying herding instincts, here are some common signs:

• Nipping at your heels or other people’s feet
• Barking at other dogs or animals, even if they are not threatening
• Circling people or objects, especially when they are moving
• Herding toys or other objects around the house
• Trying to control the movement of other pets or people

If you see these behaviors, it’s a good indication that your Yorkie has some herding instincts. It’s important to remember that these instincts are natural and usually harmless, but it’s essential to train your Yorkie to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable.

7. What does it mean when a Yorkie herds?

When a Yorkie herds, it means they are exhibiting their natural instincts to control and direct movement. They are essentially acting out their ancestral role of herding small animals, even though they are not doing it with sheep or cattle anymore.

Herding behavior can manifest in various ways, depending on the individual Yorkie. Some common examples include:

• Nipping: A Yorkie might nip at your heels or other people’s feet to keep them moving in a certain direction. This behavior is a way for them to “round up” their flock.
• Barking: Yorkies might bark at other dogs or animals, even if they are not threatening. This is a way for them to control the movement of their “flock” and keep them in a particular place.
• Circling: Some Yorkies might circle people or objects, especially when they are moving. This is another way for them to control the movement of their “flock” and ensure they are staying in a specific area.
• Herding objects: Yorkies might herd toys or other objects around the house. They may push them with their nose, bite them, or even chase them around the room. This is a way for them to express their herding instincts in a safe environment.

While herding behavior is natural for Yorkies, it’s essential to train them to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable. Positive reinforcement training can help redirect their energy and teach them more appropriate behaviors. It’s also important to provide them with safe and stimulating environments where they can express their instincts without causing harm.

8. What are some common Yorkie herding behaviors?

Yorkies, despite their small size, often display herding instincts. This is because their ancestors were bred to herd small animals in the coal mines of Yorkshire, England. Even though they don’t herd large livestock anymore, their instinct to control movement and direct others is still ingrained in their DNA. This can manifest in various behaviors, which may surprise those who perceive Yorkies as only lapdogs.

Here are some common herding behaviors you might observe in your Yorkie:

• Nipping at heels: This is a classic herding behavior where your Yorkie might nip at your heels or other people’s feet to keep them moving in a specific direction. They might do this to “round up” their “flock” and ensure everyone is in a particular place.
• Barking at other dogs: This can be a way for your Yorkie to control the movement of other dogs or keep them in a particular place. They might bark to “round up” the other dogs and maintain order.
• Circling: This is a behavior where your Yorkie might walk in circles around a person or object. This can be a way for them to control the movement of their “flock” and ensure they are staying in a specific area.
• Herding objects: Your Yorkie might push, bite, or chase toys or other objects around the house. This is a way for them to express their herding instincts in a safe and playful way.
• Protecting “flock” members: Yorkies can be fiercely protective of their family members and may display herding behavior to keep them safe. They might bark at strangers or act defensively towards anyone they perceive as a threat.

These behaviors are often harmless, but it’s important to train your Yorkie to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable. With positive reinforcement training, you can teach them to channel their energy in a positive way and redirect their herding instincts.

9. How do I teach my Yorkie to herd?

While you can’t “teach” your Yorkie to herd in the traditional sense, you can certainly encourage their herding instincts and help them channel their energy in a positive way. This can be done through various activities and training methods that promote their natural herding behaviors.

Here are some ways to help your Yorkie express their herding instincts:

• Agility training: Agility courses provide a structured environment where your Yorkie can practice their herding skills. They’ll need to navigate obstacles, follow commands, and use their natural instincts to succeed.
• Obedience training: Obedience training teaches your Yorkie to respond to commands. This can help them learn to control their impulses and channel their energy in a productive way.
• Interactive games: Games like fetch or hide-and-seek encourage your Yorkie to use their herding instincts in a fun and stimulating way. They’ll need to track the ball, follow you, and use their speed and agility to win.
• Herding toys: Special toys designed for herding breeds can provide a safe outlet for your Yorkie’s herding instincts. These toys may include objects they can chase, move, or manipulate.
• Herding classes: If you’re serious about helping your Yorkie develop their herding skills, consider enrolling them in a herding class. These classes are specifically designed to teach herding techniques and help your Yorkie channel their instincts in a controlled and positive way.

Remember, the key is to provide your Yorkie with the proper environment and opportunities to express their herding instincts in a way that’s safe, positive, and beneficial for both of you.

10. Why does my Yorkie nip at my heels?

Have you ever noticed your Yorkie nipping at your heels, barking, or even circling your feet as you move around the house? This behavior is a classic example of herding instincts. Your Yorkie sees your feet as “moving objects” and feels the urge to direct them, just like their ancestors did with cattle or sheep. They might be trying to keep you in a particular place or simply trying to control the movement of their “flock.”

It’s important to remember that this behavior is usually harmless. However, if it becomes excessive or aggressive, it’s essential to train your Yorkie to understand that biting or barking is not acceptable. Positive reinforcement training, using treats and praise, can help redirect their energy and teach them more appropriate behaviors.

Here are some tips to help your Yorkie with herding instincts:

• Provide plenty of physical and mental exercise. A tired Yorkie is less likely to engage in herding behaviors.
• Train them to stay close to you with the command “Heel.” This will help them understand their position in your “pack” and lessen the urge to herd you.
• Use a leash or harness when walking to help you control their movements and redirect them if they start to herd you.
• Offer them a safe and stimulating environment where they can express their instincts. A small playpen with toys, for example, can be a great place for them to herd their own “flock” of toys.

Summary

Yorkies, with their herding instincts, can surprise owners with their behavior. From nipping at your heels to barking at other dogs, they’re simply expressing their ancestral role of herding small animals. Understanding these instincts helps us provide the right environment for them to thrive.

It’s crucial to remember that while herding instincts are natural, behaviors like nipping or excessive barking need redirection through positive reinforcement training. This helps teach them appropriate behaviors and channel their energy positively. Providing them with ample exercise, training them to stay close to you, and offering a safe environment to express their instincts are essential for a harmonious relationship.

FAQ

What if my Yorkie’s herding behavior is excessive or aggressive?

If your Yorkie’s herding behavior becomes excessive or aggressive, it’s crucial to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can help you assess the situation, develop a training plan, and address any underlying issues that might be contributing to the behavior.

Can I stop my Yorkie from herding altogether?

While you can’t completely eliminate your Yorkie’s herding instincts, you can manage them through training and providing them with alternative outlets for their energy.

What if my Yorkie herds other pets?

If your Yorkie is herding other pets, ensure they have a safe space to retreat if they feel overwhelmed. You can also use positive reinforcement training to teach your Yorkie to leave other pets alone.

Is it normal for a Yorkie to herd their owner?

Yes, herding behavior towards owners is perfectly normal for Yorkies. It’s a sign that they see their owner as part of their “flock” and are trying to control their movements.

How can I make sure my Yorkie is getting enough exercise?

Yorkies need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can include walks, playtime, agility training, or other activities that stimulate their minds and bodies.

How can I tell if my Yorkie is feeling anxious?

Signs of anxiety in a Yorkie can include panting, pacing, trembling, hiding, licking their lips, and yawning. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to try to identify the source of their anxiety and provide them with comfort and reassurance.

How can I provide my Yorkie with a stimulating environment?

A stimulating environment for a Yorkie includes plenty of toys, opportunities for play, and a variety of experiences. You can also consider puzzle toys, agility courses, and training classes to keep their minds and bodies active.