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They're seen as long haired spoiled dogs that obviously can't walk because most are carried everywhere, often appearing on the arm of a perfectly groomed human.
They appear to be pampered and dainty but within them burns the instincts of dog.
The instincts that survival of the pack comes before anything else.
The survival of the pack means that weak members are killed without mercy or regret.
In the modern world humans step in and prevent that from happening.
Yorkie breeders can often give insight into his place in the pack when you select your pup.
We think that dogs are civilized and domestic - but their brains still hold the instincts to follow an assertive leader and attack a weak one.
When they perceive humans as a weak leader is it little wonder they become a "problem dog"? They don't need abusive methods - they simply need a leader so they don't have to try to fill the role!
In the Yorkshire Terrier's history are records of a breed that once was larger, roughly 10 pounds, and developed to run down and kill pests on the farm.
Mice, rats and other small creatures were not wanted on farms, and several breeds of dogs were developed to keep these pests eradicated.
The Yorkshire Terrier is but one, and despite being a small long haired dog in today's world he is still dog, with the instincts and thoughts of a canine depending on a pack.
Ask Yorkie Breeders for further information if needed.
The canine world needs a leader and if you don't take that role he will, woefully poorly! His jaws can break the bones in your hand; his instinct reads body language not words.
If you allow him to think he is the leader he will do so and to keep you in line can nip, snap and show other behaviors unbecoming to a pet dog.
It is not necessary to abuse a dog in order to be their leader, as Yorkie Breeders can verify - merely to respond with authority and without emotion.
Remember anger is emotion, frustration is emotion.
"No you *will not* take my chair" is not emotion - it is fact of a leader taking his space and as such is respected.
Never forget the Yorkshire Terrier is a dog first, a breed second.
In the domestic dog, including the Yorkshire Terrier, you must be the leader.
You do not share your food with him, you do not allow him to drag you but expect he walk next to or behind you.
He can easily crush the bones in your hand but doesn't.
In the natural world of the canine there must be a leader.
The leader gets choice food, water and shelter.
An animal that doesn't fit in with the pack risks being kicked out, making it harder to get food and increasing stress and chances of injury.
An injured wolf may be killed - it is nature's way of survival of the fittest and is harsh.
The Yorkshire Terrier may express this anxiety in stressing when alone.
His mind knows you are there, that he may have food or water and is sheltered - but instinct tells him alone can be dangerous.
You, as pack leader, must show it is not a big deal.
Don't apologize and reassure him - that instills fear and uncertainty.
Just leave - and when you return do so matter-of-fact without emotion.
This shows him beyond words that he'll live and is safe.
The pack will return!
The Yorkshire Terrier is still a dog, although no longer a predator or farm hunter.
Always remember he is a dog, not a "furbaby" or human - he acts and thinks and communicates as a dog.
When you understand this completely your Yorkshire Terrier will be happier and less likely to have to assume the leader role.
He doesn't think like a human and doesn't understand our emotions.
He can just be a dog and live in the moment in a way that we could learn from.
Understanding this core characteristic of canines including your Yorkshire Terrier means a better leader and a better pet.
Ask Yorkie Breeders for feedback if you're unsure.
A healthy, happy pet has a consistent leader - you!
I will be back with some more tips soon.
All the best.
