Quote:
Originally Posted by melissa912  thanks so much.. that sounds like great advice! i will have to start showingg tough love.. i know i do but its just so hard. we even have problems with his eating because i spoiled him and now im sorry.. he wont eat out of a bowl only our hand and he hates dog food only home cooked. so i guess its better to start layin down the rules before its too late.. i just feel so bad for him cus i hate when hes alone in his crate. this makes me want another yorkie  so he will have someone to sleep with..shh dont let my bf hear he will KILL me lol he says im obssesed with prince but hes just jealous lol |
You know, your little guy is so darn cute, of course it's hard!
I wanted to add that Lexi is fine in her pen now. She's very comfortable there. When we are going out, or when it's time for bed, she may just lie down, or she might stand and watch us for a bit. The only time she will bark is if we get home (or get up in the morning) and don't get her out fast enough. It's like, "Hey - don't forget about me!" So I think the barking/crying is more for a new situation that wasn't her favorite. Of course she'd rather be out with her family, or leaving to go in the car with us! But it's not like it was torture or anything.
And I think the crying/barking is something that has the potential to just become a habit more than anything if you allow it to continue. Also, like children, if they complain enough and we give in, they learn very quickly that the behavior works, and will continue it. So...if you do give in, think it over carefully because you might be stuck with that behavior for a long time!
And that's fine, as long as you're fine with it. So, if he's barking at night, and you are okay with having him sleep in your bed every night, then let him out.
Watch some Dog Whisperer to help you remain "calm and assertive"!