How to Train a Yorkie
A Yorkie is a spunky and loyal breed, loved and adored by many of us. However, they are a bit stubborn, making the task of training them a bit on the difficult side. With a little love, patience and positive reinforcement training your Yorkie can be done without much stress for either of you.
Instructions
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Have patience. If you don't, your puppy will sense that you are upset with him and the stubborn streak that these pups are so well known for will automatically kick in. So, take a deep breathe and have fun bonding with your Yorkie as you are training him. Just remember to be consistent, persistent and take your time.
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Keep distractions to a bare minimum. No other animals, people, television or ringing phones should be around. A quiet room with just the two of you would definitely be the ideal situation. Remember to focus on one command at a time. Be firm, consistent and clear with your commands. Once he masters one command you then can move on to the next. Make sure the Yorkie is well aware that you are the one in control, not him.
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Use both verbal praise and dog treats as a reward when your Yorkie obeys your commands. Begin with a firm command and when the Yorkie does what you are asking, end with verbal praise and a treat. Soon he will begin to realize that all that he needs to do is follow your command and he will receive a yummy treat.
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Housebreaking your Yorkie should also be a major focus. Make sure your crate is big enough so that the puppy can turn around in it and be comfortable. It should be big enough so that your puppy can soil one end and go sit away from it in the other. Your Yorkie should be in the crate when you are unable to watch him. Take your puppy out at frequent intervals, especially after eating. Put a leash on and take him straight outdoors, with minimal talking and playing. Take him to the same spot outdoors each time, wait until he goes potty and reward him with love and praise. Because he is a highly intelligent breed he will catch on quickly as long as you remain consistent.
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Continue to reinforce your training. Just because you think your Yorkie is trained does not mean that he does not still need discipline and focus. The Yorkie is a highly energetic and intelligent breed. The puppy will definitely sense if it is not getting the attention it craves and deserves. If this is the case, the puppy may be inclined find his own fun and get himself into some mischief. Having a Yorkie is a long term commitment, if you make that commitment your puppy will bring you many years of love and loyalty.
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Tips & Warnings
Make a schedule and stick to it. Make your training time a priority. Your Yorkie will easily forget what he has learned if you are not consistent.