Yorkshire Terrier Training Mistakes to Avoid: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Is My Yorkshire Terrier Not Listening to Me?

It’s incredibly frustrating when your Yorkshire Terrier doesn’t seem to be listening to your commands. It can be a sign of several training challenges, including inconsistent training, lack of motivation, or a lack of clear understanding of what you expect.
Here are some common reasons why your Yorkshire Terrier may not be listening to you:

Inconsistent Training

• Varying commands: Using different words for the same command, like “sit” and “down,” can confuse your Yorkie. Stick to one word per command.
• Unclear expectations: If you haven’t clearly established what you expect from your Yorkie, they won’t understand what you’re asking.
• Unreliable rewards: Using treats inconsistently can lead to a decline in motivation. Ensure you provide treats every time your Yorkie successfully completes a command.
• Mixed signals: Sending mixed signals, like allowing your Yorkie to jump on you and then scolding them, can confuse your Yorkie and make them less responsive.

Lack of Motivation

Yorkshire Terriers can be notoriously stubborn, and without adequate motivation, they may not be interested in learning new commands. Ensure you use high-value treats that your Yorkie loves and make training sessions short and engaging.

Lack of Understanding

Your Yorkie may not understand the commands you’re giving them, especially if they are new to training. Break down commands into smaller steps and use positive reinforcement to encourage them to learn.

Possible Health Issues

Sometimes, lack of responsiveness can be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you notice a sudden change in your Yorkie’s behavior, consult your veterinarian.

How to Correct a Yorkshire Terrier’s Bad Behavior

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their energetic and playful personalities, which can sometimes result in undesirable behaviors. Here are some tips to address common behavioral issues in Yorkies:

Barking

Excessive barking is a common problem for Yorkies, and it can be caused by boredom, anxiety, or a desire for attention.
Here are some ways to address excessive barking:

• Provide mental stimulation: Give your Yorkie plenty of interactive toys and puzzles to keep them entertained and engaged.
• Train a “quiet” command: Teach your Yorkie to be quiet on cue by rewarding them when they stop barking.
• Address underlying issues: If your Yorkie’s barking is caused by anxiety or fear, consult a certified dog trainer for behavior modification techniques.

Aggression

Aggression in Yorkies can manifest in various ways, including growling, snapping, biting, or lunging. It’s important to address aggression promptly to prevent it from escalating.

• Avoid provoking: Understand your Yorkie’s triggers and avoid putting them in situations where they are likely to become aggressive.
• Seek professional help: Consult a certified dog trainer or behaviorist to help you identify the root cause of your Yorkie’s aggression and develop a training plan.
• Manage triggers: If your Yorkie is aggressive towards specific people or animals, you can help them manage their triggers by using positive reinforcement techniques, such as associating positive experiences with the trigger.

Destructive Behavior

Yorkshire Terriers can be prone to destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture, digging, or scratching. It’s important to address these behaviors early on to prevent them from becoming ingrained.

• Provide appropriate outlets: Give your Yorkie chew toys and other stimulating objects to satisfy their chewing instincts.
• Manage stress: Ensure your Yorkie gets enough exercise and mental stimulation to reduce boredom and stress, which can lead to destructive behavior.
• Train a “leave it” command: Teach your Yorkie to leave objects alone on cue, which can help prevent them from destroying your belongings.

Why Is My Yorkshire Terrier So Hyper?

Yorkies are known for their lively and energetic personalities, but sometimes their hyperactivity can become overwhelming. Here are some reasons why your Yorkie might be overly hyperactive:

• Lack of exercise: Yorkies need regular exercise to burn off their energy. If they aren’t getting enough physical activity, they can become restless and hyper.
• Boredom: Like humans, Yorkies can become bored and restless if they don’t have enough mental stimulation.
• Diet: Some foods can contribute to hyperactivity in dogs. Avoid feeding your Yorkie high-sugar treats and processed foods.
• Underlying health conditions: Hyperactivity can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as thyroid problems. If you notice a sudden change in your Yorkie’s energy levels, consult your veterinarian.

How Can I Stop My Yorkshire Terrier From Biting?

Biting can be a serious issue in Yorkshire Terriers, particularly when it’s directed at humans. Addressing biting behavior early on is crucial. Here are some tips to stop your Yorkie from biting:

• Socialization: Early socialization is essential to help your Yorkie learn to interact appropriately with other dogs and people.
• Positive reinforcement: Encourage positive behaviors by rewarding your Yorkie when they display good manners, such as when they are gentle with you.
• Manage triggers: Identify what triggers your Yorkie’s biting behavior and avoid those situations.
• Consult a professional: If your Yorkie’s biting is persistent or aggressive, seek help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.

Why Does My Yorkshire Terrier Want to Bite My Feet?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their playful and energetic personalities. They often enjoy nipping at feet as a form of play, but it can become problematic if it’s not addressed early on. Here’s why your Yorkie may want to bite your feet:

• Playful behavior: Yorkies are naturally playful dogs, and they often see feet as toys to chase and nip at.
• Attention-seeking: Biting your feet can be a way for your Yorkie to get your attention.
• Redirected aggression: If your Yorkie is feeling frustrated or anxious, they may redirect their aggression towards your feet.

How to Teach a Yorkshire Terrier to Sit, Stay, and Come

Teaching your Yorkshire Terrier basic commands like sit, stay, and come is essential for building a strong bond and ensuring their safety. Here’s how you can teach them:

Sit

• Hold a treat near your Yorkie’s nose and slowly move it up and over their head. This will encourage them to lift their head and naturally sit.
• As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “Sit” clearly. Immediately reward them with the treat and praise.
• Repeat this process several times a day, gradually increasing the duration of the hold.

Stay

• After your Yorkie sits, hold your hand out in front of them with your palm facing them. Say “Stay” and give them a treat.
• Gradually increase the duration of the stay, starting with a few seconds and slowly extending it.
• Reward your Yorkie for staying with treats and praise.

Come

• Hold a treat in your hand and say “Come” with a happy voice. You can use a lure to guide them towards you.
• Once your Yorkie reaches you, reward them with the treat and praise.
• Practice this in various locations and with distractions to help your Yorkie learn to come back to you reliably.

What Are the Best Training Treats for Yorkshire Terriers?

Choosing the right training treats for your Yorkshire Terrier is crucial for successful training. Here are some factors to consider:

• Size: Yorkies have small mouths, so opt for small, bite-sized treats that are easy for them to swallow.
• High-value: Find treats that your Yorkie finds irresistibly delicious.
• Low-calorie: Choose treats that are low in calories to avoid overfeeding your Yorkie.
• Easy to digest: Select treats that are easy for your Yorkie to digest, especially if they have sensitive stomachs.

How Do I House Train a Yorkshire Terrier?

House training a Yorkshire Terrier can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips for successful house training:

• Establish a regular potty schedule: Take your Yorkie out frequently, especially first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime.
• Use a designated potty area: Choose a specific spot in your yard or on your walks for your Yorkie to go to the bathroom.
• Reward success: Praise your Yorkie and give them a treat every time they eliminate in the designated area.
• Be patient and consistent: Accidents will happen, but stay positive and consistent with your training.

Why Is My Yorkshire Terrier So Protective?

Yorkshire Terriers can be fiercely loyal and protective of their owners. While this trait can be endearing, it’s important to manage their protectiveness to prevent excessive barking, aggression, or territorial behavior. Here are some reasons why your Yorkie might be overly protective:

• Insecurity: Yorkies can be prone to anxiety and insecurity, which can lead to protective behavior.
• Lack of socialization: Yorkshire Terriers who haven’t been properly socialized with other dogs and people may be more likely to exhibit protective behavior.
• Territoriality: Yorkies can be territorial, especially of their home, food, or toys.
• Past experiences: A Yorkie’s past experiences, such as being abused or neglected, can also contribute to protective behavior.

Table Summarizing Yorkie Training Mistakes

Here is a table summarizing some of the key training mistakes to avoid when training your Yorkie:

Mistake	Solution
Inconsistent training	Use clear commands and reward consistently
Lack of motivation	Use high-value treats and make training sessions engaging
Lack of understanding	Break down commands into smaller steps and use positive reinforcement
Mixed signals	Be consistent with your commands and expectations
Ignoring bad behavior	Correct undesirable behavior immediately and consistently

FAQ

What are some common signs of a happy Yorkshire Terrier?

A happy Yorkshire Terrier will exhibit several positive signs, including:

• Tail wagging: A happy Yorkie will typically wag their tail enthusiastically.
• Playfulness: They’ll be eager to play and engage in interactive activities with their owners.
• Relaxed posture: A happy Yorkie will have a relaxed body language, with their ears perked up and their mouth slightly open.
• Friendly greeting: They’ll greet their owners with enthusiasm and affection.
• Good appetite: A healthy appetite is a sign of good health and happiness.

What is the best way to groom a Yorkshire Terrier?

Yorkshire Terriers have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Here are some essential grooming tips:

• Brush daily: Brush your Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent mats and tangles.
• Bathe regularly: Bathe your Yorkie every 4-6 weeks, or more frequently if needed.
• Trim the hair: Trim your Yorkie’s hair regularly, especially around the face, feet, and rear end.
• Use quality grooming products: Use high-quality shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers designed for Yorkies.
• Consider professional grooming: If you’re not comfortable grooming your Yorkie at home, consider taking them to a professional groomer.

What are some common health issues in Yorkshire Terriers?

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to certain health issues, including:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially in puppies.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Dental Problems: Dental disease is common in small dogs.
• Eye Problems: Eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma can occur.
• Skin Allergies: Yorkies can be prone to skin allergies.

How can I tell if my Yorkshire Terrier is sick?

Yorkshire Terriers can be good at hiding illness. Here are some signs that your Yorkie may be sick:

• Lethargy: A sudden decrease in energy levels.
• Loss of appetite: Not wanting to eat or a decrease in food intake.
• Vomiting or diarrhea: Digestive issues can indicate illness.
• Coughing or sneezing: Respiratory problems can be a sign of illness.
• Changes in behavior: Unusual behavior patterns, such as aggression or hiding.

What should I do if my Yorkshire Terrier is sick?

If you notice any signs of illness in your Yorkie, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly. They can help diagnose the problem and provide appropriate treatment.

What are the best foods to feed a Yorkshire Terrier?

Yorkshire Terriers need a balanced diet to maintain good health. Here are some tips for feeding your Yorkie:

• Choose a high-quality dog food: Look for foods with real meat as the first ingredient.
• Consider age-appropriate food: Puppies and senior dogs have different dietary needs.
• Follow feeding guidelines: Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food label to avoid overfeeding.
• Limit treats: Treats should be given in moderation to avoid weight gain.
• Provide fresh water: Ensure your Yorkie has access to fresh water at all times.