Training Tips for Yorkies: Mastering Basic Commands

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Training Tips for Yorkies: Mastering Basic Commands

Training your Yorkshire Terrier can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. Yorkies are intelligent, eager to please, and full of personality, making them excellent candidates for training. In this guide, we'll cover essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” providing you with step-by-step instructions to help your Yorkie become a well-behaved companion.

The Importance of Training

Training is crucial for your Yorkie’s safety and well-being. It establishes boundaries and helps prevent unwanted behaviors. Furthermore, a well-trained dog is more enjoyable to be around and can be a source of pride for any owner.

Getting Started: Tips for Successful Training

  1. Use Positive Reinforcement: Always reward your Yorkie with treats, praise, or playtime when they perform a command correctly. Positive reinforcement builds a strong bond and encourages them to repeat the behavior.

  2. Keep Sessions Short: Yorkies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions to about 5-10 minutes. Multiple short sessions throughout the day are often more effective than one long session.

  3. Be Consistent: Use the same command and hand signals every time you train. Consistency helps your Yorkie understand what you expect from them.

  4. Choose the Right Environment: Start training in a quiet area with minimal distractions. Once your Yorkie masters the commands, gradually introduce them to busier environments.

Essential Commands to Teach Your Yorkie

1. Sit

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Get Their Attention: Hold a treat close to your Yorkie’s nose to get their attention.
  • Move the Treat: Slowly raise the treat above their head. As they look up, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground.
  • Say “Sit”: As soon as their bottom touches the floor, say “sit” and give them the treat.
  • Repeat: Practice this several times, gradually reducing the need for the treat and relying more on verbal praise.
2. Stay

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Start in a Sitting Position: Begin with your Yorkie in a sitting position.
  • Open Palm: Place your palm in front of them as a signal for “stay.”
  • Say “Stay”: Firmly say “stay” while taking a step back.
  • Reward: If they stay in place, return to them, and reward with a treat. If they move, gently guide them back to the original spot.
  • Increase Distance: Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay command over time.
3. Come

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Use a Leash: Start with your Yorkie on a leash in a controlled environment.
  • Get Down to Their Level: Crouch down to make yourself more approachable and call your Yorkie by name followed by “come.”
  • Encourage Movement: If they don’t respond right away, gently tug on the leash to encourage them to come towards you.
  • Reward: When they reach you, offer plenty of praise and a treat. This reinforces the idea that coming to you is a positive experience.

Tips for Ongoing Training

  • Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice commands daily to reinforce learning.
  • Socialization: Expose your Yorkie to different environments, people, and other dogs. This helps them become well-rounded and more adaptable.
  • Patience is Key: Every dog learns at their own pace. If your Yorkie struggles with a command, take a step back and simplify the task.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Lack of Interest: If your Yorkie seems uninterested, try using higher-value treats or toys.
  • Distractions: If they’re easily distracted, practice in a quieter area until they master the command.
  • Frustration: If you or your Yorkie become frustrated, take a break and try again later.

Final Thoughts

Training your Yorkie to master basic commands is not only essential for their safety but also a fantastic bonding experience. By using positive reinforcement, staying consistent, and practicing regularly, you’ll help your Yorkie develop good manners and responsiveness. Remember, every command learned is a step towards a well-behaved companion, making your time together even more enjoyable! 

Written with love by Heather, proud owner of Setareh Yorkies. 🐶💖

For more adorable Yorkie updates, tips, and everything in between, visit us at Setareh Yorkies and be sure to follow our Yorkie adventures on Instagram @setarehyorkies. We can't wait to connect with you and share our love for these sweet pups!

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