One of the reasons reputable breeders do not let Yorkie puppies go to their new homes before 12 weeks old is the important socialization lessons they learn between 8-12 weeks. Bite inhibition is one of these.
Puppies play rough with one another and that's how they learn when enough is enough. Littermates squeal in pain when bitten too hard and won't play anymore. Mom will discipline a puppy who bites too hard. Puppies quickly learn that the fun stops if they get too aggressive.
Since your puppy missed these lessons, you will have to imitate her mom and littermates by ignoring her when she plays too rough. Be patient as it takes much longer for humans to teach bite inhibition than it does for them to earn it from their littermates and mom.
Growling and trying to bite you when you pick her up is a concern. Where did you get her from? Oklahoma is full of puppymills and puppy mill puppies don't get nearly enough handling and human contact. This may explain her reaction to you. |