[Harbinger]

Npw that Sheila has had all her shots and spring is arriving we go out for lots of long walks. I guess because of her being in daycare and her temperment she is a very friendly dog and has no fear of people or other dogs. She is very friendly and just wants to say hi or play. These are traits I want my dog to have and why I spent the extra money socializing her as a puppy.

Now here is the problem. She is 2.2 pounds and VERY cute. I live in the centre of downtown Toronto and so there is no avoiding other people and dogs when I go out. She gets so much attention it isn't even funny. That I have no problem with, if my dog can put a smile on peoples faces then the world is that much beter IMHO. A few times though people have actualy picked her up! Like most yorkies she can squirm and I hold my breath every time they do. Trust me, I don't let them but it happens so fast. What should I do? I don't want to freak out because then she is at even more risk of being dropped. Should I just say to everyone she meets, it's ok you can pet her, but please don't pick her up? Most people don't, they know better but there are afew that do and they almost always say "oh I have a yorkie" or "I have a toy" etc, etc. Am I just being over protective?

The next question is other dogs. Toronto is a huge dog city (allowed on public transport, leash free parks, etc) and lots of dogs are off their leashes even out of the leash free parks. With the other toys I don't worry, but med-large I tend to pick her up. The owners almost always appoligise and say their dog is friendly. I know most dogs are friendly, should I relax a bit and give them the benifet of the doubt or continue to pick her up?

As always any advice is much appreicated.