This isn't just a Yorkie trait, many small (and some large) dogs do this and your right, it is embarassing. Mine does this as well, and even being a trainer I have a hard time curtailing this habit. I make it a point to get out more and more around people. Anytime we are walking and someone says something to me then my 2yr old Yorkie goes off barking and sometimes growling, and now my 5mo old biewer is starting to do the same so I am getting it under control. Mind you I walk three dogs..the Yorkie Teapot, the Biewer and my 11yr old Golden (who can be just as vocal). Its gotten better again since the weather is nice and we are walking more, but it is definitely something I do not like nor am I going to tolerate it. When I'm out I want well behaved dogs. I'd prefer that when i stop they sit and they are very close to always doing that but its take awhile and sometimes the "forget". Keep working on it, you can get it under control with practice and patience.
Kathy |