[Teresa Ford]

I was trying to send you The Timid Dog I wrote several years ago but, could not get it to copy, here is a brief summation.
Dogs that have not been abused, neglected, or hurt by humans can still be timid. Just like some people prefer a good book, to sky diving for fun. Personalities are different.
1. Don't feel bad for a timid dog. He will sense your feelings and worry even more.
2. If you have a busy home with chattering children , stomping feet, door banging, normal family noise and shy or timid dog, it will take time for him to feel safe and fit in. Have a family meeting and explain 'this is how we are going' to make our new Yorkie feel safe. Once he feels safe, he will like to play fetch, love going for walks and playing with us.
3. Do not carry the dog. Children should use the One Hand Rule, they can only touch the dog with one hand at a time. That will solve excited squeezing, too tight hugs and dropped Yorkies.
4. Approach your dog from the side, instead of above. He is small. Just think how we would feel if a 10 foot giant was bending over us.
5. Young Puppies need a lot of sleep, just like human babies, so provide a quiet place, for his safe crate. So he can rest and nap. Lack of sleep will make your puppy nervous and over tired.
6. Pretty much let the puppy come to you, don't hold or carry him too much. The first 2 weeks is adjustment time, from a dog world to a people filled world.
7. Sit on the floor a lot. Your puppy will feel safer on the solid floor. The floor is the perfect place to gently touch him , groom him and just hang out with him
8. While sitting on the floor with him, put a tiny (one bite size) treat in your hand and close your hand, put a small smear of honey, dog food, cream cheese etc.. on the back of your hand. Pretend to lick the back of your hand and make yummy sounds. Quietly and calmly put your closed hand on the floor. Say your pup's name. When he licks encourage with the word cue 'Good KISSES' when the food is gone on the back of your hand. Roll your hand over and cue with the word 'Treats' slowly unfold your hand so he can get the treat. DO NOT TOUCH him right now while he is eating. Practice this bonding exercise twice a day for a week . After a day or two you can gently stroke his side, by his ribs while he is licking and eating from your hand.
9. Pet your dog on the side, under his chin, and behind his ears. Dont pat the top of his head or his back the first week or so. This is rude and bossy in dog language. Until he gets to trust and know you don't pet him too much.
10. Take your pup on short walks with the whole family. Use a harness and regular cloth leash. Let him follow. Basically ignore him while you walk around the yard or block. Just let him follow.
Remember every lesson you teach our pup, works with the next lesson to come. Be patient, gentle and repeat over and over the things you want him to learn. Every one should use the same cue words and methods.
Given time your Yorkie will be a big fun part of your family. His busy terrier spirit will bloom, when he feels safe, and loved.