Yorkshire terriers, “Yorkies” are one of the most popular and beloved small household dogs. Their small size makes them ideal for those that have limited living area and small yards. Yorkies are friendly, loyal, and energetic. There is no doubt that your Yorkie loves life and loves you!
Yorkies can have a reputation for being annoying because of their energy and needs. Whether a Yorkie is annoying or not depends a lot on the training it has received. It is important to have a proper understanding of the personality of your dog and the responsibility that you are assuming when you welcome a dog into your home. Yorkies can be pegged as aggressive, annoying, unfriendly, and needy. But, with a realistic perspective and proper training, owners find that the joy and love they receive from their Yorkie far outweighs any annoyance that might frustrate them.
Why Is My Yorkie Aggressive?
Yorkies are known for being energetic, curious, and playful. They are bold and brave and can be tenacious in protecting their territory and people. While these qualities make them excellent watchdogs, this tenacity can come out as aggression especially if they are suddenly startled. Any aggression a Yorkie shows should not be considered acceptable. Get help from a trainer to help correct the problem.
Yorkies were once used to hunt and catch mice in factories and mines in England. Over time they were taken into people’s homes and became known more as a lap dog pet, but they still have tendencies to hunt, protect, and defend. Barking to warn the owner of a threat may be considered acceptable, but any growling, nipping, or biting should not be considered normal. Again, any aggressive behavior should be addressed with a trainer before it gets out of control.
Other factors that can increase aggression include physical pain (teething, injuries, etc), or fear. So be sure to check for an underlying problem. We will discuss this more under the topic of Yorkies being unfriendly.
How Does My Yorkie Have So Much Energy?
One of the most common complaints that people have about Yorkies is their high energy and seemingly incessant barking. Understandably, many people find this very annoying.
Yorkies were originally bred to be hunters and have a keen sense of awareness when their area of responsibility is breached or threatened. This is clearly demonstrated when the mailman comes and your Yorkie begins barking, jumping, and running from window to window in an attempt to see from every angle and alert you to your possible impending demise. Of course, the mailman is not an actual threat to your well-being and your Yorkie will quickly settle down as soon as he realizes this.
Some dog owners find this annoying, but understanding that your Yorkie is simply trying to do his job and protect you can help you encourage and calm your dog in situations like this.
Puppies typically have more energy than older dogs and you will notice your Yorkie begins to mellow as he gets older. In addition, like people, every Yorkie is different and has a slightly different personality. Take the time to get to know your Yorkie!
Yorkies need 15 minutes or so of exercise every day. If possible, give your Yorkie time outside off the leash in a safe space such as a fenced yard or dog park. Inside, Yorkies thrive with a clearly defined space to explore.
Play with your Yorkie using appropriate toys from a breeder or pet store. They love toys that include mental stimulation such as finding treats in a puzzle or playing fetch. By incorporating regular times of play you can help your Yorkie feel safe and cared for.
My Yorkie is Unfriendly, What Can I Do?
Yorkies are typically very friendly and enjoy meeting new people. They will be on the alert at first, barking and jumping around to ensure that everyone is aware that a new person is in the area. But after getting accustomed to this new friend (which can happen very quickly!) they will settle down and accept this new person as a part of their group.
Yorkies are highly adaptable dogs. Moving, new people, and strange noises provide an opportunity to investigate, but they typically warm to new people and situations quickly.
The issue comes when a Yorkie feels unsafe or threatened and responds in fear. Most Yorkies do not like rough play and will growl or snap at someone who is interacting with them in this way. Always monitor your Yorkie when around children and make sure that the children are not antagonizing him.
Yorkies also have a keen sense of loyalty and take responsibility to protect their owner. You can reassure the Yorkie that you are safe by holding him and introducing him to the new person calmly. Allow the new person to offer your Yorkie a treat so that the introduction and a stranger is a positive experience. Be careful of allowing someone to suddenly come between you and your Yorkie as this can be seen as threatening.
Yorkies can be territorial and may have a low tolerance for other dogs. Introduce your Yorkie to other dogs (or any safe, healthy animal) slowly and with close oversight. With careful monitoring Yorkies can grow to accept and love other animals.
Is it Normal for a Yorkie to Be This Needy?
Yorkies need consistent training and care. While caring for a Yorkie can be annoying at times, providing a safe and reassuring environment for your Yorkie can go a long way in calming their personality.
Yorkies are highly intelligent and desire to please their owner. This makes them the ideal dog to train. Start training when your puppy is young and be consistent. Require all members of your home to train your dog the same way so that your Yorkie hears the same rules and commands from everyone.
Don’t treat your Yorkie puppy like a baby or an incapable dog that needs your help or he will become needy. As he is able allow him the dignity to work through stairs, loud noises, etc. on his own so that he does not become entirely dependent on you.
What about the needs of potty training? Yorkies can be hard to potty train. They have small bladders. Be consistent and offer rewards as your puppy signals his need to go outside. Consider having pee pads inside for times when you are not available to take your Yorkie out. Every dog is different, but with consistency Yorkies can be housetrained.
If you are struggling to train your Yorkie, consider taking him to a dog training class. These classes are designed to support both you and your dog, strengthening your bond as your Yorkie learns how to obey and behave.
Yorkies require intentional care from their owners. Many of these responsibilities are a part of owning any dog, but some are more specific to the Yorkie breed. Yorkies need to be regularly groomed, fed daily, and taken care of physically.
What about the needs of grooming? One of the most striking characteristics of the Yorkie breed is their beautiful silky coat. Thier coat needs regular grooming to be maintained. Their hypoallergenic coat does not shed much; however, it needs to be brushed and washed regularly. Consider taking your Yorkie to a groomer to ensure that it is staying clean.
Yorkies need nutritious food and fresh water daily. Provide your Yorkie with yearly veterinarian visits, ensure that they are up to date on their vaccines, and pay attention to their behavior. If you Yorkie suddenly begins acting strangely, consider that it may be due to a change in physical health and get that checked out by a vet.
Do Yorkies Make Good Pets?
Yes! Yorkies make excellent pets! Their loyal, friendly personality will provide you with loving companionship and well-repay you for the care that you provide them.
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