Please help - older pup HATES Kids

[Kasika]

How do you know the difference between fear and agression? My yorkie is horrible with strangers and bigger dogs. He doesn't see many kids but I bet he would be bad with them too. Just today we had a friend come over whom Snooki was meeting for the first time. Snooki barked forever and when our guest put his hand out for Snook to smell, Snooki almost bit him! I scolded him for that and for barking. One of the earlier posts said not to scold his barking, but what else could I do?

[FirstYorkie]

Most aggression is caused by fear.

I would think, Kasika, that you could do the same thing that I recommended to Margot. That is, have treats ready for when guests come over. Let them just drop treats for your yorkie at first. After numerous guests do this, he should begin to learn that guests mean Good Things for pup. When he seems more comfortable, then (and only then) I'd start letting the guest hold the treats out to him, etc.

As with Margot's pup, allow your Yorkie to flee if he is frightened (don't hold him) and don't let them pet him unless he seems comfortable.

Make sense?

[Yorkiekids]

It's really hard if the child is wild, which a lot of them are by nature. You might try having them sit calmly, and giving them a treat to give to the dog. Make sure you let them know that's all they can do, or they won't be let near the dog again.

[Kasika]

Originally Posted by FirstYorkie

I would think, Kasika, that you could do the same thing that I recommended to Margot. That is, have treats ready for when guests come over. Let them just drop treats for your yorkie at first. After numerous guests do this, he should begin to learn that guests mean Good Things for pup. When he seems more comfortable, then (and only then) I'd start letting the guest hold the treats out to him, etc.

Make sense?

That does make sense! I've always had guests hand Snooki snacks. Snooki would take the snacks but continue with his behavior. I guess he felt like he was being rewarded for barking. Next time I will try the dropping idea. Thank you for the advice!