First let me say, I can tell from the caring tone of your post that your dog and your girlfriend are very lucky to have you! I'm no expert--My Yorkiepoo is the first dog I've ever had, but I would like to say calm down a bit and enjoy your dog's puppyhood. It sounds like you are doing all the right things, and if you keep educating yourself on this forum, I'm sure your dog will be fine around people and kids. Yorkies are just sweet dogs, who are very social and love people.
Because of my husband's and my work schedules, we finally had to admit that we will have to use a combo of outdoor potty training and pads. Scarlett is 6 months and really seems to be taking to the pads of late but will go outside too. Does she still have accidents? Yes. Just more incentive to get rid of carpet everywhere in my house.
We haven't quite mastered getting her to ask to go out, and since she sniffs 24-7, the sniffing and walking in circles thing means nothing. Getting her to go out is really a matter of lucky timing and getting her on a schedule. You literally need to do a loud, ridiculous special dance while chanting "good potty" whenever she potties where you want her to. I really think that is the number one tip for training because Yorkies are people pleasers!
As for the biting, that goes in stages. Take away your presence and give her a chew toy, and she'll quickly adjust. She wants to make you happy and be with you. Don't be discouraged if she eases off the biting for awhile and then reverts to it. I understand they teethe in stages.
Check out dogfoodadvisor.com for ideas about food. Most here give some kind of top rated 5 star food. We are so lucky that we can buy a small bag and get a lot of mileage out of it. If you have time, look at the sticky about getting samples of premium dog food. I got enough food for Scarlett for two months from requesting those samples. Artemis sent me 20 individual bags! I know this only addresses some of your concerns, but others will chime in.
Enjoy your dog and post pictures! |