Why Do Yorkies Follow You To The Bathroom? Unraveling the Mystery

Why Does My Yorkie Follow Me to the Bathroom?

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are known for their unwavering loyalty and charming personalities. Their small stature and big hearts often lead them to be glued to their owners’ sides, but why, oh why, do they insist on following you to the bathroom? It’s a common question among Yorkie owners, and the answer, thankfully, isn’t as mysterious as it seems.

The reasons behind a Yorkie’s bathroom obsession are a fascinating blend of instinct, social cues, and a touch of mischievousness. Here’s a breakdown of the most common explanations:

• Pack Bonding and Socialization: Yorkies are pack animals, and their instincts tell them to stay close to their “pack leader” – you! Following you around the house, even to the bathroom, is a way for them to maintain close proximity and reinforce their bond.
• Protection and Security: While Yorkies are small, their protective instincts are big. They want to ensure you are safe and sound, and being in the same room might offer a sense of security, especially if they perceive something unusual happening in the bathroom.
• Curiosity and Exploration: Yorkies are naturally curious and adventurous creatures. The bathroom, with its unique sounds and smells, can be a captivating place for them to explore and investigate. You might find your Yorkie sniffing around, investigating the toilet or checking out the contents of the sink.
• Desire for Attention: Yorkies are social butterflies who crave attention and affection. They might follow you to the bathroom simply to be near you and get a cuddle or a scratch behind the ears.
• Training and Routine: If your Yorkie is potty trained, they might associate the bathroom with their routine. Every time you go to the bathroom, your Yorkie might expect a bathroom break of their own!

It’s important to remember that every Yorkie is an individual, and their motivations might vary slightly. Some Yorkies might be more prone to following their owners to the bathroom than others, and the reasons for their behavior can be a mix of these factors.

Why Does My Yorkie Bark at Me in the Bathroom?

Imagine this: you’re enjoying a peaceful bathroom moment, and suddenly, your Yorkie starts barking at you. It’s a common experience for many Yorkie owners, and it’s natural to wonder why they’re so vocal in that particular room.

Several reasons can contribute to your Yorkie’s bathroom barking:

• Attention Seeking: Yorkies are masters at getting attention. They might bark at you in the bathroom to get you to interact with them, play with them, or give them a treat.
• Anxiety and Boredom: If your Yorkie is feeling anxious or bored, they might bark to express their feelings or attempt to get your attention. The bathroom, being a quieter space, might exacerbate these feelings.
• Territoriality: Yorkies can be territorial, especially within their home. The bathroom, being a private space, might trigger their protective instincts. They might be barking to guard their territory or to alert you to a perceived threat, like a strange sound.
• Sound Sensitivity: Some Yorkies are extremely sensitive to sounds. The sound of running water, the flushing toilet, or even the creaking of the floorboards might be enough to trigger their barking.
• Training and Routine: Your Yorkie might be barking to remind you about their bathroom routine. They might associate the bathroom with potty breaks and want to go outside.

It’s important to observe your Yorkie’s behavior and the context of their barking to determine the underlying reason. If you suspect anxiety, boredom, or territoriality, it’s essential to address these issues with training and positive reinforcement.

Should I Let My Yorkie in the Bathroom?

Whether or not you should let your Yorkie in the bathroom is a personal decision, but it’s worth considering the pros and cons before making a choice.

Pros:

• Strengthening the Bond: Allowing your Yorkie in the bathroom can create a sense of shared space and strengthen your bond. It allows them to be with you, even in private moments.
• Reduced Anxiety: For some Yorkies, being in the bathroom with you can alleviate anxiety. They might feel more secure and less alone.
• Potty Training: If you’re training your Yorkie, letting them in the bathroom can help them associate it with potty breaks.

Cons:

• Hygiene Concerns: The bathroom is a breeding ground for bacteria. Your Yorkie might get into things they shouldn’t, like toilet water or cleaning supplies.
• Potential for Accidents: If your Yorkie isn’t fully potty trained, letting them in the bathroom increases the risk of accidents.
• Damage to Bathroom Fixtures: Yorkies are curious creatures and might chew on toilet paper, soap, or other bathroom items.
• Distraction and Interference: If your Yorkie is always in the bathroom with you, it can be distracting and interfere with your privacy.

If you decide to let your Yorkie in the bathroom, make sure to create a safe and secure environment. Keep cleaning supplies out of reach, provide a designated spot for your Yorkie to sit or lie down, and supervise them closely.

What Does It Mean When a Yorkie Follows You Everywhere?

Yorkies are known for their unwavering loyalty, and their tendency to follow you everywhere is a testament to their deep affection for their owners. This constant companionship can be both heartwarming and a little overwhelming, so let’s delve into the reasons behind this behavior.

• Bonding and Security: Yorkies are pack animals, and they instinctively crave the safety and security of being close to their pack leader (you). They might follow you everywhere to ensure you are safe, and to strengthen the bond you share.
• Attention Seeking: Yorkies are social butterflies who thrive on attention. Following you around gives them constant access to cuddles, scratches, and playful interactions.
• Curiosity and Exploration: Your Yorkie’s curiosity might drive them to follow you everywhere. They might want to see what you are doing, what you are looking at, or simply experience the world from your perspective.
• Anxiety and Separation: Some Yorkies might follow you because they are anxious about being alone. They might fear being left behind or separated from their owner.
• Training and Routine: If your Yorkie is well-trained, they might follow you around as a part of their routine. They might have learned that following you is rewarded with treats or playtime.

While it’s endearing, it’s important to remember that your Yorkie might need some space. Allow them to explore independently, engage in solo playtime, and enjoy quiet moments without your constant presence. This will help them develop their independence and reduce the chances of separation anxiety.

Why Does My Yorkie Follow Me When I’m Eating?

Yorkies, with their big personalities and insatiable appetites, often seem to be glued to your side, especially when you’re enjoying a delicious meal. It’s almost as if they have a sixth sense for when you’re about to eat. But why do they follow you so closely, and what does it mean?

• Food Craving: Yorkies are notorious for their love of food, and the sight and smell of your meal might trigger their primal instincts. They’re hoping to score a tasty morsel or two, and the closer they are to you, the better their chances!
• Pack Bonding: Your Yorkie sees you as their pack leader, and they want to be close to you, even during mealtimes. Following you to the kitchen or dining table is a way for them to stay connected to their “pack.”
• Attention Seeking: Yorkies love attention, and your mealtime might be the perfect opportunity for them to get some. They might sit or lie down near you, hoping you’ll pet them or share some food.
• Socialization: Your Yorkie might simply be curious and want to be a part of the social interaction happening at the table. They enjoy being close to you and observing the activity.

While it’s tempting to share your food with your Yorkie, it’s important to remember that table scraps can be harmful to their health. Stick to their designated food and treats, and resist the urge to give in to their begging eyes.

Should I Let My Yorkie in the Kitchen?

The kitchen, with its abundance of enticing smells and tempting treats, can be a real draw for any Yorkie. But should you allow them free reign in this culinary wonderland?

Pros:

• Bonding: The kitchen can be a hub for family interaction, and allowing your Yorkie to be there can create a sense of togetherness. They can be a part of the meal preparation and clean-up, and you can share some fun moments with them.
• Supervision: Having your Yorkie in the kitchen allows you to supervise them and make sure they don’t get into trouble. You can keep an eye on their behavior and prevent them from snatching snacks off the counter.
• Training: The kitchen can be a great place to train your Yorkie, teaching them commands like “stay,” “off,” and “leave it.” You can gradually introduce them to the kitchen environment and help them learn to be well-behaved in this area.

Cons:

• Safety Hazards: The kitchen is filled with potential dangers for a Yorkie, including hot stoves, sharp knives, and cleaning supplies. If you have a young or mischievous Yorkie, they might be tempted to explore these dangerous items.
• Food Security: Yorkies are notorious for their food-loving nature. Leaving food out on the counter or within their reach can lead to them sneaking bites, which can cause health problems.
• Cleanliness: Yorkies can shed and track dirt into the kitchen. This can create a mess and increase the risk of cross-contamination if they are around food preparation areas.
• Distraction: Having a Yorkie in the kitchen while you’re cooking can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents. They might be underfoot, begging for food, or trying to jump up on the counters.

If you decide to allow your Yorkie in the kitchen, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure their safety and your peace of mind.

How Can I Stop My Yorkie From Following Me Everywhere?

While a Yorkie’s unwavering loyalty and desire for companionship can be heartwarming, it can also be overwhelming if they follow you everywhere, even to the bathroom. If you’re looking to encourage a bit more independence, here are some tips:

• Establish a Safe Space: Create a designated space in your home where your Yorkie feels safe and secure. This could be a crate, a bed, or a special corner of the room. Provide them with comfortable bedding and toys to keep them occupied.
• Train for Independence: Use positive reinforcement training to teach your Yorkie commands like “stay” and “place.” This will help them learn to stay in their safe space while you’re away.
• Engage in Solo Play: Encourage your Yorkie to engage in independent play with toys. Provide them with a variety of toys, including puzzle toys, chew toys, and interactive toys.
• Gradual Desensitization: If your Yorkie is anxious about being alone, gradually desensitize them by leaving them alone for short periods. Start with a few minutes and gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your Yorkie for any independent behavior. If they stay in their safe space while you’re gone or play independently, praise them and offer them a treat.

Be patient and consistent with your training and positive reinforcement. It might take time for your Yorkie to become more independent, but with patience and encouragement, you can create a happy and balanced relationship.

Why Do Yorkies Sniff Everything?

Yorkies, like many dogs, have an incredible sense of smell. They are constantly exploring the world through their noses, sniffing everything they encounter. It’s a natural behavior, and it’s a part of what makes them such fascinating creatures.

• Gathering Information: Yorkies use their noses to gather information about their surroundings. They can smell other animals, people, food, and even emotions. This information helps them understand their environment and navigate the world.
• Communication: Sniffing is a way for Yorkies to communicate with each other. They can smell urine and feces to learn about other dogs’ territories, health, and social status.
• Socialization: Sniffing is an essential part of socialization for Yorkies. It allows them to interact with other dogs, learn about their personalities, and build bonds.
• Exploration: Yorkies are naturally curious, and sniffing everything is a way for them to explore the world around them. They want to know what everything smells like, and they love to investigate new scents.
• Entertainment: For some Yorkies, sniffing is simply a form of entertainment. They enjoy the stimulation and the sensory experience of exploring smells.

While it’s natural for Yorkies to sniff everything, it’s important to train them to be respectful of other people’s belongings and to avoid sniffing in inappropriate places. This can be done through positive reinforcement training and socialization.

How Do I Stop My Yorkie From Sniffing Everything?

While it’s natural for Yorkies to sniff everything, it can be challenging when they’re sniffing things they shouldn’t, like garbage cans, shoes, or strangers’ belongings. Here’s how you can address this behavior:

• Train “Leave It”: Teach your Yorkie the “leave it” command. This involves holding a treat in your hand, letting them sniff it, and then saying “leave it” while covering your hand with your other hand. They should then stop sniffing and look away.
• Redirect: When your Yorkie starts to sniff something inappropriate, redirect their attention to a more acceptable object. For example, you can offer them a toy or a treat to distract them.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your Yorkie for good behavior. If they avoid sniffing something you don’t want them to sniff, praise them and give them a treat.
• Socialization: Proper socialization can help reduce your Yorkie’s tendency to sniff strangers’ belongings. Expose them to different people, animals, and environments to help them develop confidence and become more comfortable in new situations.
• Keep Things Out of Reach: Store tempting items like garbage cans, shoes, and cleaning supplies out of your Yorkie’s reach. This will reduce the opportunity for them to sniff these items.

With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Yorkie learn to control their sniffing impulses and become a well-behaved companion.

Why Do Yorkies Get Jealous?

Yorkies, with their strong bonds and affectionate personalities, can sometimes exhibit jealousy. It’s not uncommon for them to get jealous when their owner shows attention to another person, animal, or even an object.

• Attention Seeking: Yorkies are attention-seeking creatures. They thrive on their owner’s affection, and when they feel like they’re not getting enough attention, they might become jealous.
• Protective Instincts: While Yorkies are small, they have strong protective instincts. They might become jealous when they feel like their owner’s attention is being diverted away from them, and they might try to reclaim their “territory.”
• Pack Bonding: Yorkies are pack animals, and they want to be the center of their pack’s attention. They might become jealous when they feel like another member of the pack is getting more attention than they are.
• Insecurity: Some Yorkies might become jealous due to insecurity. If they have a history of being abandoned or neglected, they might worry that their owner is going to leave them.
• Socialization: Proper socialization can help prevent jealousy. If Yorkies are exposed to a variety of people, animals, and situations from a young age, they are less likely to become jealous when they encounter new stimuli.

If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s jealousy, it’s important to address the issue with training and positive reinforcement. You can teach them to be comfortable with other people and animals, and you can help them develop a stronger sense of security.

Why Do Yorkies Like to Sleep Under the Covers?

Yorkshire Terriers, with their tiny frames and love for warmth, often find comfort and coziness under the covers. It’s a common sight to find your Yorkie snuggled up with you in bed, enjoying the warmth and security of being tucked in.

• Warmth and Comfort: Yorkies are small dogs, and they naturally seek out warmth. Being under the covers provides them with a sense of security and comfort, especially during colder temperatures.
• Sense of Security: Sleeping under the covers can create a sense of enclosure and safety for Yorkies. It’s a familiar and comforting space that makes them feel protected and secure.
• Bonding: Sleeping with their owners can be a way for Yorkies to strengthen their bond. It allows them to be close to you and feel a sense of connection.
• Habit and Routine: If your Yorkie has slept under the covers before, they might have developed a habit and a routine. They might associate the bed with comfort and relaxation.
• Personality: Some Yorkies are simply more cuddly than others. They might enjoy the closeness and physical contact of sleeping under the covers with their owners.

Whether or not you let your Yorkie sleep in bed with you is a personal decision. If you choose to allow them under the covers, make sure to provide them with a comfortable bed or blanket and to supervise them closely.

Why Do Yorkies Have a Big Personality?

Yorkies, despite their small size, are known for having big personalities. Their charming and affectionate nature, their playful spirit, and their unwavering loyalty make them truly captivating companions.

• Breeding: Yorkies were originally bred to hunt vermin, and their bold and fearless nature was essential for this task. This tenacity and assertiveness have been passed down through generations.
• Intelligence: Yorkies are highly intelligent dogs. They are quick learners, and they are eager to please their owners. Their intelligence allows them to engage in complex behaviors and to express their personality in a variety of ways.
• Socialization: Proper socialization plays a vital role in shaping a Yorkie’s personality. When Yorkies are exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age, they develop confidence and become more outgoing and adaptable.
• Love and Attention: Yorkies crave love and attention from their owners. When they are showered with affection and positive reinforcement, their personalities blossom and they become more confident and playful.
• Training: Consistent and positive training can help shape a Yorkie’s personality. Teaching them commands, providing them with mental stimulation, and creating a positive training environment can foster a well-rounded and well-behaved personality.

A Yorkie’s big personality is a blend of genetics, upbringing, and personality traits. It’s what makes them such unique and special companions, and it’s a testament to their love for their owners.

Why Do Yorkies Bark So Much?

Yorkies, known for their big personalities and even bigger barks, are often vocal dogs. They might bark for a variety of reasons, from playful excitement to territorial guarding. Understanding the reasons behind their barking can help you address any excessive barking and create a more peaceful home environment.

• Alerting: Yorkies are natural watchdogs, and they bark to alert their owners to anything unusual or perceived as a threat. This might include noises, movements, or strangers approaching the house.
• Attention Seeking: Yorkies are social butterflies who crave attention. They might bark to get your attention, especially if they are bored or feeling neglected.
• Anxiety and Fear: Some Yorkies bark out of anxiety or fear. They might be afraid of loud noises, strangers, or being left alone.
• Territoriality: Yorkies can be territorial, especially in their own home. They might bark to protect their space, their toys, or their owners.
• Playfulness: Yorkies are playful dogs, and they might bark as a way of expressing their excitement or to initiate a game.
• Excitement: Yorkies get excited easily, and their excitement might manifest in the form of barking. They might bark when they see their owners, when they are going for a walk, or when they are getting a treat.
• Health Issues: In some cases, excessive barking might be a sign of a health issue. If your Yorkie is suddenly barking more than usual, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet for a checkup.

It’s important to identify the reasons behind your Yorkie’s barking to address the issue effectively. Training, positive reinforcement, and addressing any underlying anxiety or fear can help reduce excessive barking and create a more peaceful home environment.

Why Do Yorkies Like to Chew?

Yorkies, like many puppies, have a natural instinct to chew. This behavior is a part of their development, and it helps them explore their environment and relieve teething pain. While chewing is a normal behavior, it’s important to redirect it to appropriate chew toys and to teach them to avoid chewing on furniture and other objects.

• Teething: Puppies go through a teething phase where their adult teeth emerge, causing discomfort and irritation. Chewing helps relieve this pain and discomfort.
• Exploration: Chewing is a way for puppies to explore their environment and learn about different textures and objects. It’s a natural behavior that helps them develop their senses.
• Boredom and Anxiety: If your Yorkie is bored or anxious, they might chew on objects to relieve their stress. Providing them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation can help reduce this behavior.
• Attention Seeking: Some Yorkies chew on objects to get their owner’s attention. If they are feeling neglected, they might engage in this behavior to try to get you to interact with them.
• Instinctual: Chewing is an instinctual behavior for dogs. They are naturally inclined to chew on objects, and this behavior is often reinforced by the satisfaction of chewing on something tasty or interesting.

It’s essential to provide your Yorkie with plenty of appropriate chew toys to satisfy their chewing needs and to redirect them from chewing on inappropriate objects. Positive reinforcement training can also be used to teach them not to chew on furniture or other objects.

Table Summarizing Information About Yorkies

Behavior	Possible Reasons	Solutions
Following you to the bathroom	Pack bonding, protection, curiosity, attention-seeking, training	Provide a safe environment, training, positive reinforcement
Barking at you in the bathroom	Attention seeking, anxiety, territoriality, sound sensitivity, training	Address anxiety, training, positive reinforcement, sound management
Following you everywhere	Bonding, attention seeking, curiosity, anxiety, training	Establish a safe space, training, solo playtime, gradual desensitization
Following you when you’re eating	Food craving, pack bonding, attention seeking, socialization	Stick to their designated food, positive reinforcement
Sniffing everything	Gathering information, communication, socialization, exploration, entertainment	Training, redirection, positive reinforcement, socialization
Getting jealous	Attention seeking, protective instincts, pack bonding, insecurity, socialization	Training, positive reinforcement, socialization
Sleeping under the covers	Warmth, security, bonding, habit, personality	Provide a comfortable bed, supervision
Chewing	Teething, exploration, boredom, attention seeking, instinct	Provide chew toys, redirect, positive reinforcement, mental stimulation
Barking excessively	Alerting, attention seeking, anxiety, territoriality, playfulness, excitement, health	Training, positive reinforcement, addressing anxiety, sound management

FAQ

Is it okay for my Yorkie to sleep in my bed?

Whether or not you let your Yorkie sleep in bed with you is a personal decision. If you choose to allow them under the covers, make sure to provide them with a comfortable bed or blanket and to supervise them closely.

How can I stop my Yorkie from barking at strangers?

Training, positive reinforcement, and addressing any underlying anxiety or fear can help reduce excessive barking and create a more peaceful home environment.

What are some good chew toys for Yorkies?

Choose durable chew toys made of rubber, nylon, or rope. Avoid toys that are too small, as they could be a choking hazard. Look for toys that are designed to be interactive and stimulating.

How can I socialize my Yorkie?

Start socializing your Yorkie early, from a young age. Expose them to different people, animals, and environments to help them develop confidence and become more comfortable in new situations.

What are the signs of a healthy Yorkie?

A healthy Yorkie will have a shiny coat, bright eyes, a healthy appetite, and a playful attitude. They should also have regular bowel movements and clear urine.

How often should I brush my Yorkie’s teeth?

It’s recommended to brush your Yorkie’s teeth at least once a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

Some common health problems in Yorkies include hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, and dental disease.