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Originally Posted by yorkiesmiles  I suggest that if communicating patiently & kindly to these children doesn't work - go speak with the parents & let them know that you are trying to housebreak this little one & she is easily distracted and very fragile also.
Or with the kids - let them know you don't want them hanging on as you are out and about -- but, in turn invite them into your yard for 5 or 10 minutes - have them sit down and allow them to pet her for a few minutes & ask all their questions etc. This would be a great opportunity to explain to the children how fragile yorkies are and how they require special care. Most likely, doing this once or twice will help dissipate the interest of most of these kids. You don't even have to let them hold her, petting should be enough. If it overwhelms your girl then pick her up and say I'm sorry, I guess she isn't ready for this much attention yet. |
In a perfect world, this would be a great solution. However, since I live on a military base as well (
not a perfect world!), I know exactly what you are talking about. It would be great to sit down and have a chat with the parents, but the parents are NO WHERE to be found. I guess this is what happens when you live in a high-rise with a park just outside.
You've gotten some great advice already, and I do'nt want to just repeat what others have said, but.... Do not be afraid to be firm. If do not want the kids to pet your dog, I love the idea of saying she is afraid of children. Or if you want to let some kids pet your Marley (and socialize him), maybe try walking to a corner of the playground and tell the children that they need to sit on the ground (cross-legged, kneeling, or on their hands), then they can take turns and pet her one-at-a-time. Then you tell them whose turn it is. And they only get one turn before you continue your walk.
You can also tell them that your dog is just a baby, and that they need to be extra, extra careful. Or explain that there are too many children in the park and your dog could get hurt. Or hold Marley while the children pet him.... Or say that it's time for his nap or for his dinner, or that he needs to do his business. These are all things that I have to say when I walk around base! I feel your pain!