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Old 10-28-2015, 02:47 AM   #8
Wylie's Mom
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Location: Phoenix, AZ
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Maximo View Post
I would definitely supervise the dog around your children, especially if they are younger.

The situation is difficult for outsiders to assess without knowing the dog and environment, and seeing the incident. Biting and baring teeth are never acceptable, but it sounds like there is a whole lot of negative energy fueling the situation.

Your puppy did something naughty taking the tissue. Teach her "drop it" or a similar command for situations like this. If you show anger and frustration, and fly to chase her, your energy will fuel the dog's negative action.

Many Yorkies love to be chased for the naughty prize that they have snatched. Max will growl protectively over a chew when I want to get it away from him, but he has great bite inhibition and would never bite me.

I strongly believe in positive reinforcement training, especially for Yorkies who can be willful and test your patience. The only negative I employ is withdrawing attention, leaving the room, which can be very effective in stopping bad behavior.

Re-directing attention is also very effective. When my boys get out of hand wrestling, I tell them to settle down and then ask if they want to perform tricks for treats (a kibble for each trick).

Your girl is still very much a puppy. She will test your patience. Maintain an even keel, foster her trust, and train her to drop things and exchange things for a treat reward. This is for her safety and your family's.

Here is an article on bite inhibition:
http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/gen...nhibition.html
Quote:
Originally Posted by Maximo View Post
I want to add to give you more perspective: Max was a feisty Yorkie puppy. A good boy, but definitely could test my patience.

I tried the whole pack leader/domination thing with him for a week. Complete disaster. It just made things worse and I could quickly see him turning into an angry, frustrated, untrusting little guy.

I went back to the positive reinforcement training immediately. Dogs really do want to please us. I focused on having a schedule, our daily routine of little activities. This has a calming effect and instills trust. Made sure he had plenty of exercise and stimulation, both of which decrease the desire to seek attention through naughty things.

Wishing you good luck.
Great advice!
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