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Questions about teaching tricks My little Jake is only 10 weeks old, but I've started teaching him tricks because he's sooooooooo smart and catches on really fast, and he seems to really enjoy it. I've taught him how to fetch a ball or a toy and bring it back to me, it took a couple days to teach him how to "drop it" once he brings it back, but he's got it down now. It's so cute to see him bringing the ball or toy back, and he drops it at my feet and sits down and waits for me to toss it again. I've been using praise rather than treats because he LOVES affection. Then once we're finished, I give him a few cheerios, he really likes those alot. I've had several people tell me that he's too young to be learning tricks, but I really think that if he enjoys it (he LOVES to play) and he can learn, then I don't see the harm. I never push him or anything, I just make it a game. I work in the evenings, and when I get home he gets up and is excited to see me and wants to play for a little while. I find this is a really good time because we're up alone and it's quiet, and I have his full attention. It's a great way for me to unwind when I come home, it gives us a chance to spend some good quality time playing together, and he's learning. So, am I wrong, is he too young? Also, do you all find it harder to teach a yorkie tricks because of their tiny size? I know it will get easier when he's a little bigger, but maybe it's just me because I'm not used to such a little dog. He seems very eager to play and learn, so I hope I'm not doing it too soon. Would love to hear any thoughts on this. Thanks in advance. |
they are never too young to learn tricks...i taught my whiskey to come sit and stay for honey nut cheerios when she was only nine weeks old...she will do anything for a cheerio!!!:p :p :p |
I agree with Mrs. Chris. What could be the harm in it, as long as you're not asking the dog to things that are more physically exerting than a puppy can stand, which you are clearly not? I think that the brain needs exercise as well as the body. I also think that Yorkies are not harder to train than other dogs -- at least mine isn't. Demi is the smartest dog I've ever had. She learns amazingly fast. (And now I must mention that a trainer referred to her tonight as 'abnormally intelligent' -- I am so proud of her!) The only thing that makes training a little dog harder is that you have to bend down a lot! It's killer on the back! Congrats on the bond you're developing with your pup! I think you'll be reaping the rewards for many, many years! |
I'm no expert, but it sounds like you're doing everything right. As long as you keep it fun, I don't see age as a barrier. Anyone questioning Yorkie intelligence should check out these vids from then-7-month-old Joey. His mama believes in clicker training and has done phenomenal things with positive reinforcement. As for my experience, my Yorkie is the smartest dog I've ever owned. http://www.dropshots.com/day.php?use...cdate=20060121 |
AlaskaYorkie - you are too kind!!! I need to update those videos... SJK - it is never too early to teach a dog tricks. In fact, I think that it's good for them to learn "how to learn" early. Perhaps what those people were thinking is that it isn't good for young dogs to do too much jumping. The growth plates in their bones don't solidify until about 12- 18 months of age and too much jumping can do damage. And no, I personally don't think their small size negatively impacts their learning in any way. |
We started teaching Chachi tricks when he was 9 weeks old |
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