Messing with me...

[Taryn0405]

Gizmo was doing so good with crate training at night. And now it seems like something switched and we're training all over again. Is he smart enough to be testing me?? I mean, now the barking is easier to tolerate. I know he's not hungry, thirsty, or hurt so just letting him bark it out seems to be the best option. I just have to keep telling myself that it's better for him in regards to training...At least, that's what I have to keep chanting over and over.

So, is a Yorkie smart enough to test you even though he already has been trained?

Thanks!
Gizmo's Mommy

[Danielle K]

Hello There!

Absolutely!! Just like children test rules, puppies do the same thing. With barking, generally just letting them bark it out is a good option. If you think that he will not grow out of the barking on his own, then a quick "Shhh!" like Cesar Milan does may help. Making noise, or calling his name, or yelling "ah-ah" will only make the barking worse because they get the feeling that you are "barking" at whatever they are barking at too, so they think its okay.

As for house training, just keep doing it like you did before. A simple punishment when you catch him in the act, and a praise when he goes where you want him to, and making sure you stick to it. He obviously knows what you want, you just have to reinforce it; that you will not tolerate him not going potty where you want him to go.

I know it is frustrating! But before you know it, it will truly be over and he will be a great little puppy!!! Good Luck!