Taylor ripped a huge hole in our couch the other day and was very proud of her handy work. I have tried the sprays that are meant to deter them and they havent worked. Yes, i was extremely upset, but i have also realised that she is teething and having some big issues with her teeth not coming out so I can't blame her. Boredom also had a lot to do with it because she was at home alone while i was at work. So I have "Yorkie-Proofed" my yard and made sure she has plenty of fresh water, food, toys and chews available and i have started leaving her outside which is working like a charm (even helping with the house breaking!). I know she is safe and has more to entertain herself with outside. I also sometimes leave my bird outside with her as a companion if the weather is ok.
Replace your personal items with the dog's toys and chews and don't leave valubles lying around un-supervised!
it's important to realise that they are still dogs no matter how small they are and they will dig, chew, bark and do everything a bigger dog will do. Dynamite comes in small packages they say! Be patient yet firm and teach your dog that when you tell him to go outside or stop he must listen. A firm and distracting noise often helps and diverts their attention back to you and away from what they are doing.
I have also started spending a lot of time with mine doing clicker training. At 6 months she can sit, stay, down and play dead! She longs for that interaction and spending time with them and educating them on listening to you is vital.
__________________  Kristin, Taylor & Trigger  |