How To Train Your Yorkie To Come

How to Train Your Yorkie to Come: A Comprehensive Guide

Yorkshire Terriers, known for their charming personalities and adorable size, can be a joy to own. However, training a Yorkie to come reliably can be a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. This guide will delve into the intricacies of training your Yorkie to come, equipping you with the knowledge and techniques to achieve success.

Before we embark on the training journey, it’s important to understand why training your Yorkie to come is crucial. A well-trained recall is essential for a Yorkie’s safety, particularly when you’re in public areas or off-leash. It allows you to ensure their well-being, prevent them from getting into trouble, and maintain control in potentially hazardous situations.

The key to successful training is consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Rewards, such as treats, praise, and petting, should be used to encourage your Yorkie’s desired behavior. Punishment should be avoided, as it can lead to fear, anxiety, and a negative association with training.

Now, let’s delve into the most frequently asked questions about training a Yorkie to come:

How Do I Start Training My Yorkie to Come?

Beginning the training process for recall with your Yorkie involves establishing a strong foundation. This foundation encompasses familiarizing your Yorkie with the “come” command and ensuring they associate it with positive experiences. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a quiet, distraction-free environment. Start training in a calm setting where your Yorkie is less likely to be distracted by other sights, sounds, or smells. This could be your living room, a backyard, or a quiet park.
2. Use a happy and enthusiastic tone of voice. When you say “come,” use a positive and excited tone to make the command more appealing to your Yorkie. This helps them associate the command with positive experiences.
3. Start with short distances. Initially, have your Yorkie sit or stand a few feet away from you. Then, say “come” in a cheerful tone while gently tugging on their leash or using a treat to encourage them to come to you.
4. Reward generously. When your Yorkie comes to you, give them lots of praise, petting, and a high-value treat. This reinforces their positive association with the “come” command.
5. Gradually increase the distance. Once your Yorkie reliably comes to you from a short distance, gradually increase the distance over several training sessions. You can do this by moving farther away, having your Yorkie sit farther away, or playing a game of fetch and calling them back to you.
6. Practice in different environments. After mastering recall in a quiet setting, gradually introduce distractions, such as other people or pets. This helps your Yorkie generalize the command to different situations.

Remember, patience and consistency are key. Don’t get discouraged if your Yorkie doesn’t get it right away. Keep practicing in short, fun sessions, and reward their efforts.

What if My Yorkie Doesn’t Come When I Call?

It’s common for Yorkies to be distracted, especially in exciting environments. If your Yorkie doesn’t come when you call, don’t punish them. Instead, try the following:

• Increase the value of the reward. Try using a higher-value treat, such as a small piece of cooked chicken or cheese. This will make the reward more appealing and increase their motivation to come to you.
• Change your position. If your Yorkie is distracted by something else, try moving to a different location. This can help them focus on you and the command.
• Use a toy. If your Yorkie is toy-motivated, try throwing a toy in the direction you want them to come. This can make the command more fun and engaging.
• Ignore their misbehavior. If your Yorkie continues to ignore you, simply turn your back and walk away. This will help them understand that ignoring you is not getting them what they want.
• Practice in different locations. As mentioned earlier, practicing recall in various environments will help your Yorkie generalize the command to different situations.

It’s crucial to remember that every Yorkie is unique, and they learn at their own pace. Don’t be discouraged if your Yorkie isn’t coming reliably right away. Just keep practicing consistently, and you will eventually see improvement.

How Can I Make the “Come” Command More Exciting?

Making the “come” command more exciting for your Yorkie is crucial for engaging their interest and motivating them to respond. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Use a happy, high-pitched voice. Yorkies are often responsive to enthusiastic tones, so use a happy and excited voice when you say “come.”
2. Play games. Make recall a game by incorporating activities like fetch or hide-and-seek. When your Yorkie comes to you, reward them enthusiastically with a game of tug-of-war or a favorite toy.
3. Use a clicker. Clicker training can be an effective tool for making recall more exciting. Pair the clicker with a reward, such as a treat, so your Yorkie learns that the clicker means they’ve done something right. Then, start using the clicker when they come to you, and follow it with a reward.
4. Vary your training routine. Keep your Yorkie engaged by varying your training routines. Practice in different locations, use different rewards, and try different games. This will help prevent them from getting bored and keep them excited about training.

Remember, the key is to make training fun and rewarding for your Yorkie. If they enjoy the process, they will be more likely to learn and comply with your commands.

How Long Does It Take to Train a Yorkie to Come?

There’s no definitive answer to how long it takes to train a Yorkie to come reliably. Every dog is unique, and their learning pace varies depending on factors such as age, breed, personality, and previous experiences. However, with consistent training, you can expect to see improvements in your Yorkie’s recall within a few weeks.

Here’s a general timeline:

Stage	Timeframe	Expectations
Initial Training	1-2 weeks	Your Yorkie starts to associate the “come” command with positive reinforcement and begins to respond reliably in quiet settings.
Intermediate Training	2-4 weeks	Your Yorkie demonstrates improved recall in different environments, with minimal distractions.
Advanced Training	4+ weeks	Your Yorkie reliably comes to you, even in highly distracting environments.

Remember, consistency is key. Even after your Yorkie masters recall, it’s important to practice the command regularly to maintain their skills.

How Do I Stop My Yorkie From Pulling on the Leash When I Call Them?

Pulling on the leash is a common issue, particularly during training sessions. However, you can effectively address this by using consistent training techniques:

1. Use a harness instead of a collar. Harnesses distribute pressure more evenly across your Yorkie’s chest, making it less likely to choke or cause discomfort when they pull.
2. Stop and stand still when they pull. When your Yorkie pulls on the leash, immediately stop walking and stand still. This will signal to them that pulling doesn’t get them anywhere. Once they calm down, give them a treat and continue walking.
3. Practice walking beside you. When your Yorkie is walking calmly beside you, give them a treat and praise them. This will encourage them to stay in the desired position.
4. Use a head halter or gentle leader. These devices redirect your Yorkie’s head when they pull, making it more difficult for them to move forward. However, it’s crucial to introduce these devices gradually and with positive reinforcement.
5. Train your Yorkie to walk on a loose leash. This involves rewarding them for walking with a slack leash. You can achieve this by using the “stop and stand still” method, along with treats and praise.

Remember, patience and consistency are crucial. Avoid harsh corrections, as they can make your Yorkie fearful and less likely to cooperate. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and rewarding desired behavior.

How Can I Make Training More Effective?

To maximize the effectiveness of your Yorkie’s training, consider these additional tips:

• Keep training sessions short and fun. Yorkies have short attention spans, so keep your training sessions short, around 5-10 minutes. Focus on making the sessions enjoyable, using positive reinforcement, and rewarding their efforts.
• Use high-value treats. Yorkies are often food-motivated, so use treats that they find particularly rewarding. These could include small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, or their favorite kibble.
• Be patient and consistent. Training takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if your Yorkie doesn’t get it right away. Just keep practicing consistently, and you will eventually see progress.
• Seek professional help if needed. If you’re struggling to train your Yorkie to come reliably, don’t hesitate to seek help from a certified dog trainer. They can provide personalized guidance and techniques tailored to your Yorkie’s needs.

Remember, training is a collaborative effort between you and your Yorkie. By establishing a positive and rewarding training environment, you can foster a strong bond with your furry companion while teaching them valuable skills for a safe and enjoyable life together.

How Can I Help My Yorkie Learn the “Come” Command More Easily?

Here are some additional tips to help your Yorkie learn the “come” command more easily:

• Start with a short distance. Don’t expect your Yorkie to come from across the park immediately. Start with a short distance, such as a few feet away, and gradually increase the distance as they become more proficient.
• Make the “come” command exciting. Use a happy and enthusiastic tone of voice, and reward them with a treat, praise, and a fun game.
• Avoid distractions. Initially, train your Yorkie in a quiet environment with minimal distractions. This will help them focus on you and the command.
• Practice consistently. The key to successful training is consistency. Practice the “come” command daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes, to reinforce the behavior.
• Be patient and understanding. Your Yorkie may not learn the “come” command immediately. Be patient and understanding, and don’t get discouraged.

Remember, training is a journey, not a destination. By staying consistent and positive, you can help your Yorkie learn the “come” command and create a strong bond based on trust and communication.

What If My Yorkie is Afraid of Me When I Try to Train Them?

Fear is a common issue that can hinder training. If your Yorkie is afraid of you, it’s essential to address the underlying fear and build trust before proceeding with training. Here’s what you can do:

1. Identify the source of fear. Observe your Yorkie’s behavior to determine what triggers their fear. It could be specific objects, sounds, or even your own body language.
2. Create a safe space. Provide your Yorkie with a comfortable and secure space where they feel safe and protected. This could be a crate, a bed, or a quiet corner of your home.
3. Build trust gradually. Approach your Yorkie slowly and calmly, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises. Offer them treats or toys they enjoy, and reward any positive interactions.
4. Use positive reinforcement. Avoid punishment, as it will only worsen their fear. Focus on rewarding desired behaviors and creating positive associations with training.
5. Seek professional help. If your Yorkie’s fear is severe or persistent, it’s essential to seek help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide personalized guidance and training strategies.

Remember, patience, understanding, and a gentle approach are crucial when dealing with a fearful Yorkie. By creating a safe and positive training environment, you can help them overcome their fear and build a strong bond based on trust and respect.

How Can I Train My Yorkie to Come When They Are Off-Leash?

Training your Yorkie to come reliably when they’re off-leash requires patience, consistency, and a gradual approach. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start in a safe, enclosed area. Begin your off-leash training in a fenced-in yard or a park with minimal distractions. This will help ensure your Yorkie’s safety while you work on recall.
2. Use a long leash or training line. Attach a long leash or training line to your Yorkie’s harness, allowing them some freedom while you maintain control. This will help you guide them back to you if they wander off.
3. Practice short bursts of off-leash time. Start with short periods of off-leash time, gradually increasing the duration as your Yorkie’s recall improves. Reward them consistently when they come to you.
4. Introduce distractions gradually. Once your Yorkie reliably comes to you in a safe, enclosed area, gradually introduce distractions, such as other dogs or people. Always maintain control with the long leash or training line.
5. Use a verbal cue and a hand signal. Incorporate a clear verbal cue, such as “come,” and a hand signal to make your command more distinct. This will help your Yorkie associate the command with specific actions.
6. Practice in different environments. After mastering recall in a familiar environment, gradually practice in different areas, such as parks, trails, or other open spaces. This will help your Yorkie generalize the command to various situations.

Remember, off-leash training takes time and dedication. Be patient, consistent, and positive, and you will eventually see your Yorkie respond reliably to your commands.

Summary

Training your Yorkie to come reliably is essential for their safety and well-being, particularly in public areas or when they’re off-leash. This comprehensive guide has provided a step-by-step approach to training, addressing the most frequently asked questions about recall.

Remember, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key. Use treats, praise, and fun games to motivate your Yorkie, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every dog is unique, and they learn at their own pace. With dedication and a positive attitude, you can successfully train your Yorkie to come and strengthen your bond with your furry companion.

FAQ

What are the best treats to use for training my Yorkie?

Small, high-value treats that your Yorkie finds particularly rewarding work best. Examples include:

• Small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey
• Cheese cubes
• Their favorite kibble
• Commercial training treats

Experiment with different treats to determine what your Yorkie finds most appealing.

How often should I train my Yorkie to come?

Aim for short, frequent training sessions, ideally daily. Even a few minutes of practice can make a difference. Consistency is key.

What if my Yorkie is distracted by other dogs?

If your Yorkie is distracted by other dogs, try the following:

• Use a higher-value treat.
• Move to a less distracting area.
• Ignore their misbehavior.
• Practice in different environments to help them generalize the command.

My Yorkie is pulling on the leash when I call them. What should I do?

Use a harness, stop and stand still when they pull, and reward them for walking calmly beside you. Consider using a head halter or gentle leader.

My Yorkie is afraid of me. How can I train them?

Address the underlying fear by creating a safe space, building trust gradually, and using positive reinforcement. Consider professional help if needed.

Can I use a whistle to train my Yorkie to come?

Yes, a whistle can be effective, especially in noisy environments. Pair the whistle with a treat and praise to create a positive association.

How can I prevent my Yorkie from running away when they’re off-leash?

Start in a safe, enclosed area, use a long leash or training line, and introduce distractions gradually. Practice in different environments to help your Yorkie generalize the command.