Yorkie Discipline: Gentle Methods That Work

How do I stop my Yorkie from barking excessively?

Excessive barking in Yorkies can be a common problem for many owners. It can be frustrating, especially if it happens at night or when you’re trying to relax. However, there are a few things you can do to stop your Yorkie from barking excessively.

First, it’s important to figure out why your Yorkie is barking. Is it out of boredom, anxiety, or fear? If it’s boredom, try to give your Yorkie more attention and playtime. If it’s anxiety, consider using calming techniques like a calming pheromone diffuser or a Thundershirt. If it’s fear, try to desensitize your Yorkie to whatever is causing the fear. For example, if your Yorkie is afraid of strangers, slowly introduce him to them in a controlled environment.

Second, you need to teach your Yorkie an alternative behavior. This could be anything from a “quiet” command to a simple trick. Once your Yorkie learns the behavior, you can use it as a way to redirect their barking. For example, if your Yorkie starts barking at a stranger, say “quiet” and give him a treat when he stops barking.

It’s important to be patient and consistent with your training. It may take some time for your Yorkie to learn the new behavior, but with patience and perseverance, you can teach him to bark less. Remember to reward your Yorkie for good behavior. Positive reinforcement is key to successful training.

How do I potty train my Yorkie?

Potty training a Yorkie can be a challenging, but rewarding process. It’s important to remember that Yorkies are small dogs with small bladders, so they’ll need to go potty more frequently than larger breeds.

Here are some tips for potty training your Yorkie:

• Establish a regular potty schedule. Take your Yorkie outside first thing in the morning, after every meal, and before bedtime.
• Choose a designated potty spot. This should be a grassy area where your Yorkie can easily relieve himself.
• Use positive reinforcement. When your Yorkie goes potty in the designated spot, give him a treat and praise. Never scold or punish him for accidents.
• Watch for signs that your Yorkie needs to go potty. These signs may include restlessness, whining, circling, or sniffing the ground.
• Be patient. It may take some time for your Yorkie to get the hang of potty training. Be patient and consistent, and he’ll eventually learn.

It’s also important to make sure your Yorkie has access to fresh water at all times. Dehydration can lead to accidents. If you are having trouble potty training your Yorkie, consult a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.

How do I crate train my Yorkie?

Crate training is a great way to provide your Yorkie with a safe and secure space, but it’s also an important tool for potty training, housebreaking, and preventing destructive behavior. It’s important to remember that crate training should be a positive experience for your Yorkie.

Here are some tips for crate training your Yorkie:

• Choose the right size crate. The crate should be big enough for your Yorkie to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It shouldn’t be so big that he can potty in one corner and sleep in another.
• Introduce the crate slowly. Start by placing the crate in a quiet area of your home and leaving the door open. Let your Yorkie explore the crate and get used to it.
• Start with short sessions. Put your Yorkie in the crate for a few minutes at a time, and gradually increase the duration.
• Use positive reinforcement. When your Yorkie enters the crate, give him a treat and praise.
• Never use the crate as punishment. If you punish your Yorkie while he’s in the crate, he’ll develop a negative association with the crate.
• Keep the crate clean. Wash the crate regularly to prevent odor and bacteria buildup.

It’s also important to supervise your Yorkie when he’s in the crate, especially when he’s first starting out. If your Yorkie starts to whine or cry, don’t immediately let him out. This could reinforce the behavior. Wait a few minutes, and then if he’s still whining, let him out quietly.

How do I socialize my Yorkie?

Socialization is the process of introducing your Yorkie to a variety of people, dogs, and environments. It’s crucial for his emotional well-being and can prevent fear, anxiety, and aggression.

Here are some tips for socializing your Yorkie:

• Start early. The best time to socialize a puppy is between 3 and 16 weeks of age.
• Expose your Yorkie to a variety of people and dogs. This could include family and friends, strangers, children, and other dogs.
• Keep socialization sessions short and positive. Aim for 5-10 minute sessions at a time.
• Reward your Yorkie for positive behavior. Give him treats and praise when he’s calm and relaxed around other people and dogs.
• Avoid situations that could be stressful for your Yorkie. If he seems overwhelmed or anxious, remove him from the situation.

Socialization is an ongoing process. It’s important to continue socializing your Yorkie throughout his life. If you’re unsure about how to socialize your Yorkie, consult with a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.

How do I teach my Yorkie basic commands?

Teaching your Yorkie basic commands is essential for good manners and communication. It can also help to strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Here are some basic commands that every Yorkie should know:

• Sit. This command is useful for teaching other commands and for preventing jumping.
• Stay. This command is essential for safety and can help prevent your Yorkie from running into traffic or dangerous situations.
• Come. This command is crucial for retrieving your Yorkie if he gets loose or for ensuring he comes to you when called.
• Down. This command is helpful for teaching other commands and for calming down an excited Yorkie.
• Leave it. This command is essential for preventing your Yorkie from eating something dangerous or for teaching him to drop something he’s holding.

When teaching your Yorkie new commands, use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding him with treats, praise, and petting when he performs the behavior correctly. Never punish your Yorkie for mistakes, as this can lead to fear and anxiety. Be patient and consistent with your training, and your Yorkie will eventually learn the commands.

How do I prevent my Yorkie from being aggressive?

Yorkies are known for their big personalities, but they can also be prone to aggression. It’s important to take steps to prevent aggression before it becomes a problem.

Here are some tips for preventing aggression in Yorkies:

• Socialize your Yorkie early. Early socialization can help prevent fear and anxiety, which can lead to aggression.
• Train your Yorkie. Basic obedience training can help teach your Yorkie self-control and appropriate behavior.
• Manage your Yorkie’s environment. Keep your Yorkie away from triggers, such as other dogs or people, that can lead to aggressive behavior.
• Seek professional help. If you’re having trouble managing your Yorkie’s aggression, consult with a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.

Remember, aggression is a serious problem that can be dangerous. It’s important to seek help if you’re having trouble managing your Yorkie’s behavior.

How do I deal with my Yorkie’s separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a common problem in Yorkies. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and previous experiences.

Here are some tips for dealing with separation anxiety in Yorkies:

• Gradually increase the time you leave your Yorkie alone. Start with short periods of time and gradually increase the duration.
• Create a safe and comforting space for your Yorkie. This could be a crate, a dog bed, or a specific room in your house.
• Use calming techniques. These could include a calming pheromone diffuser, a Thundershirt, or classical music.
• Distract your Yorkie. Give him a Kong toy filled with treats or a puzzle toy to keep him occupied while you’re gone.
• Seek professional help. If your Yorkie’s separation anxiety is severe, consult with a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.

Separation anxiety can be a difficult problem to deal with. Be patient and persistent, and you can help your Yorkie overcome his anxiety.

How do I deal with my Yorkie’s chewing?

Chewing is a natural behavior for Yorkies. They use their mouths to explore the world and to relieve boredom. However, chewing can become a problem if your Yorkie starts to chew on furniture, shoes, or other items that are not meant to be chewed.

Here are some tips for dealing with chewing in Yorkies:

• Provide your Yorkie with appropriate chew toys. Make sure your Yorkie has a variety of chew toys to keep him entertained.
• Redirect chewing behavior. If you catch your Yorkie chewing on something he shouldn’t be, redirect him to a chew toy.
• Keep tempting items out of reach. Put away anything that your Yorkie might be tempted to chew on.
• Exercise your Yorkie. A tired Yorkie is less likely to chew.
• Train your Yorkie to “leave it.” This command can help prevent chewing on inappropriate items.

Chewing is a common problem in Yorkies. Be patient and persistent, and you can help your Yorkie learn to chew only on appropriate items.

How do I handle my Yorkie’s grooming needs?

Yorkies are known for their long, silky coats. Grooming is an essential part of owning a Yorkie. It helps keep their coat healthy and free of mats and tangles.

Here are some tips for grooming your Yorkie:

• Brush your Yorkie’s coat regularly. Brushing your Yorkie’s coat daily will help prevent mats and tangles.
• Bathe your Yorkie as needed. Yorkies don’t need to be bathed very often.
• Trim your Yorkie’s nails. Trim your Yorkie’s nails regularly to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort.
• Clean your Yorkie’s ears. Clean your Yorkie’s ears regularly to prevent wax buildup and infections.
• Brush your Yorkie’s teeth. Brush your Yorkie’s teeth daily to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.

If you’re not comfortable grooming your Yorkie yourself, take him to a professional groomer. Regular grooming is essential for keeping your Yorkie healthy and happy.

How do I make sure my Yorkie gets enough exercise?

Yorkies are small dogs, but they still need a fair amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Here are some tips for exercising your Yorkie:

• Take your Yorkie for walks. Take your Yorkie for at least two 15-minute walks each day.
• Play with your Yorkie. Play fetch or tug-of-war with your Yorkie to give him some mental and physical stimulation.
• Consider doggy daycare. If you’re not able to give your Yorkie enough exercise during the day, consider doggy daycare.

Exercise is important for Yorkies of all ages.

How do I find a good veterinarian for my Yorkie?

Finding a good veterinarian for your Yorkie is important.

Here are some tips for finding a good veterinarian:

• Ask for recommendations. Ask your friends, family, and other pet owners for recommendations for veterinarians.
• Check online reviews. Read online reviews of veterinarians in your area.
• Schedule a consultation. Schedule a consultation with a few veterinarians before choosing one for your Yorkie.

Once you’ve found a veterinarian you like, be sure to schedule regular checkups for your Yorkie.

Summary Table

Topic	Tips
Excessive Barking	Identify the cause, teach an alternative behavior, use positive reinforcement, be patient
Potty Training	Establish a schedule, choose a designated spot, use positive reinforcement, watch for signs, be patient
Crate Training	Choose the right size crate, introduce slowly, start with short sessions, use positive reinforcement, never use as punishment, keep clean
Socialization	Start early, expose to a variety of people and dogs, keep sessions short and positive, reward good behavior, avoid stressful situations
Basic Commands	Use positive reinforcement, be patient and consistent
Aggression	Socialize early, train, manage environment, seek professional help
Separation Anxiety	Increase time gradually, create a safe space, use calming techniques, distract, seek professional help
Chewing	Provide appropriate toys, redirect behavior, keep tempting items out of reach, exercise, train “leave it”
Grooming	Brush regularly, bathe as needed, trim nails, clean ears, brush teeth
Exercise	Walks, play, doggy daycare
Veterinarian	Ask for recommendations, check online reviews, schedule a consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to own a Yorkie?

The cost of owning a Yorkie can vary depending on a number of factors, including where you live, the breeder you choose, and the type of care you provide. However, you can expect to spend a significant amount of money on a Yorkie over the course of their life.

Here are some of the major costs associated with owning a Yorkie:

• Initial Purchase: Yorkies can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the breeder and the bloodline.
• Food: You can expect to spend around $20 to $40 per month on high-quality dog food.
• Vet Care: Regular checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care can cost several hundred dollars per year.
• Grooming: Yorkies need regular grooming, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 or more per visit.
• Toys and Supplies: You’ll need to purchase toys, beds, collars, leashes, and other supplies.
• Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected vet bills.

It’s important to factor in all of these costs before bringing a Yorkie home.

Are Yorkies good for first-time dog owners?

Yorkies can be good for first-time dog owners, but they are not a good choice for everyone. They are relatively small and easy to care for, but they also require a lot of attention and training.

Here are some things to consider if you’re a first-time dog owner and thinking about getting a Yorkie:

• Commitment: Yorkies require a significant time commitment, especially when they’re puppies.
• Training: Yorkies are intelligent but can be stubborn, so they need consistent training.
• Socialization: It’s important to socialize your Yorkie early to prevent behavioral problems.

If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, Yorkies can be wonderful companions.

How long do Yorkies live?

Yorkies typically live for 12 to 15 years, but some may live longer.

Here are some factors that can affect a Yorkie’s lifespan:

• Genetics: Some Yorkies are more prone to health problems than others.
• Diet: A healthy diet can help extend a Yorkie’s lifespan.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can help keep a Yorkie healthy.
• Vet Care: Regular vet care can help detect and treat health problems early.

With good care, Yorkies can live long, happy lives.

Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?

Yorkies are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but this is not entirely true. They don’t shed as much as other breeds, but they still produce dander, which can trigger allergies in some people.

If you’re allergic to dogs, it’s important to spend time with a Yorkie before you decide to adopt one. This will help you determine if you’re allergic or not.

How do I find a Yorkie breeder?

If you’re looking for a Yorkie puppy, it’s important to find a reputable breeder.

Here are some tips for finding a reputable breeder:

• Ask for recommendations: Ask your friends, family, and other pet owners for recommendations.
• Check online reviews: Read online reviews of breeders in your area.
• Visit the breeder: Visit the breeder’s home or facility to see where the puppies are raised.
• Ask questions: Ask the breeder about the puppies’ health, temperament, and lineage.
• Meet the parents: Meet the parents of the puppies to get a sense of their temperament.
• Check for certifications: Look for breeders who are certified by organizations like the American Kennel Club.

A reputable breeder will be happy to answer your questions and show you the puppies’ living conditions.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

Yorkies are prone to certain health problems, including:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap
• Portosystemic Shunt: A birth defect that affects the liver
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS): Dry eye
• Allergies: Food and environmental allergies
• Dental Problems: Tooth decay and gum disease

It’s important to take your Yorkie to the vet for regular checkups and to monitor them for signs of health problems.

How do I train my Yorkie to use a doggy door?

Training your Yorkie to use a doggy door can be a great way to give them more independence and make potty training easier.

Here are some tips for training your Yorkie to use a doggy door:

• Choose the right doggy door: Choose a doggy door that is the right size for your Yorkie.
• Introduce the doggy door slowly: Start by placing the doggy door in a quiet area of your home and allowing your Yorkie to explore it.
• Use positive reinforcement: When your Yorkie goes through the doggy door, reward them with treats and praise.
• Be patient: It may take some time for your Yorkie to get the hang of using the doggy door. Be patient and consistent.

With patience and persistence, you can teach your Yorkie to use a doggy door with ease.