Although your new teacup Yorkshire terrier is small and adorable, it is important to begin training as soon as you bring him home or as early as 8 to 10 weeks. Schedule time everyday to work with your small companion so lessons learned are not easily forgotten. Training a teacup Yorkie can be time consuming, yet very rewarding.
Things You'll Need
- Teacup Yorkshire Terrier
- Lightweight leash and harness
- Small treats
Instructions
Obedience Training Instructions
Decide what behaviors will be acceptable in your home. Will your Yorkie be expected to sleep with you or in a crate? When is barking acceptable and when is it not? Behavior expectations will vary among households, but once you decide on what is acceptable, stick with it.
Use a lightweight harness and leash to control your dog during training to show him you are in charge. Harnesses support the tiny stature of a teacup Yorkie to allow for safe training.
Train your teacup Yorkie at a time when you and your dog can work alone. Other pets or children may make it difficult for your dog to focus on your commands. Sessions should be kept short at first, lasting no more than 15 minutes each.
Teach one command until your dog successfully masters it. Create a solid foundation by teaching the "sit" command first, followed by the "stay" command. Add additional commands, such as "no," "heel," "down" and "outside" to name a few. Add them one at a time until training has been completed for all commands.
Use short one or two word commands and simple hand gestures consistently, so that your Yorkie does not become confused by complex commands.
Speak firmly when correcting inappropriate responses or behavior and be careful not to yell at your dog. Let your dog know you mean business, but not in a way that will cause him to fear you.
Catch your teacup Yorkie in the act of bad behavior and use these times to reinforce commands such as "no," "outside" or "down" with additional training.
Praise your dog when acceptable behaviors are witnessed. Offer rewards such as small treats or affection.
Be patient! Teacup Yorkies are easily excited and are easily bored, so training may often be difficult.