[SWHouston]

Originally Posted by gracielove

I am a first time Yorkie owner. I have had dogs all my life as well. I have to say that there is a very definite difference in the terrier personality. Some people think the Yorkie is kind of a fashion statement type of dog but nothing could be further from the truth. They are high energy dogs bred to kill rodents. A purebred Yorkie is a little bundle of energy that loves a good fight. You have to understand the terrier personality and learn how to train them if you want to have success.

All small breed dogs tend to be a little harder to train partly because of their small bladders and partly because they are just so darn cute that people give them free reign of the house before they are ready.

Personally, I did not have house training issues. I got Gracie when she was almost 13 weeks old and she was pretty much trained to puppy pads when I brought her home. If you want to avoid at least two months of accidents and having to confine your pup most of the time wait and get it when it is at least 12 weeks old. Pups do not develop the muscle needed to hold back urine until they are at least 16 weeks old. If you get an infant pup you will have to realize you are dealing with a baby that really is not able to do much about getting to the potty in time.

My real issue with Gracie was that her idea of play was a good fight. I really did not realize at first that this was terrier 101. They have to be taught who and what it is OK to fight with. Many complain of their pups biting their hands and feet. This can be worse when a puppy leaves it's mom and litter mates too soon but it is also largely a terrier trait for them to want to bite and shake things.

Some pups are very picky eaters as well. We had that issue with Gracie. She is a top of the line food critic. I don't dare offer her ordinary kibble.
I would suggest reading up on the Yorkie in the YT library as well as through the threads here. There are also some good Yorkie books available. Just keep in mind that the Yorkie is no ordinary dog. It is truly a different sort but if your are up for a challenge they are the most entertaining and loveable little critters ever!

Every word true