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The first component of leash training is to get the Yorkie used
to all the equipment. Start by finding a good, properly sized collar. If
the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is going to wear the collar all the
time it is essential to get a break away collar that will easily come
apart if it gets hooked on something and traps the Yorkie Puppy. A break
away collar will snap open, preventing the Yorkie from possibly
injuring itself or even being strangled. The collar can be leather,
nylon or cotton blend and should be sized to allow the owner to insert
two fingers between the collar and the back of the neck. Collars that
are too tight will result in discomfort for the Yorkie and
negative associations with the collar and collars that are too loose
will simply slip off the Yorkie and teach them how to get away.
Some people prefer to use harnesses rather than collars. For short nosed
breeds such as Pugs, Boston Terriers and Shih Tzus as well as most of
the toy breeds harnesses are often recommended to prevent possible
trachea collapse if the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) or dog pulls
against the collar. Harnesses, like collars, need to be properly fitted
and should be the correct size for the dog. It is important for owners
to carefully check for any signs of chaffing or rubbing when using
either a harness or a collar. Some puppies seem to have an easier time
with a harness whereas others really don't seem to like them, so it is
important to work with the Yorkie as well as get advice on
properly fitting and measuring your Yorkie for a harness.
Starting Leash Training
Start by allowing the Yorkie to
wear the collar for short periods of time just around the house. This is
the same if you are using a harness. Don't attach anything to it at all;
just allow the Yorkie to wear it. Gradually increase the length of
time that the collar or harness is on. Avoid pulling or grabbing the
collar or harness in any way at this time, this is just a
desensitization process and is not really part of the training. The next
step is to attach a string or piece of yarn to the collar or harness and
let the Yorkie get used to it dragging on their neck. Do not use the
leash at this time as the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) will bite and
play with the yarn, and you do not wish to encourage them to bite to
play with the leash itself. Once the Yorkie is comfortable with the
yarn or ribbon, it is time to start the actual training.
For most breeds of dogs a six to eight foot nylon or leather leash is
all that is required. An easy-snap type clasp is great for simply
attaching and detaching the leash with minimum chances of the Yorkie
Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) being able to get the leash detached. Avoid
using a retractable leash for training as this can confuse the Yorkie
Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) as to how far he or she can go at any time.
A retractable lead or leash is ideal after the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire
Terrier ) is trained, but just complicates basic training.
Start by attaching the least to the collar or harness and then stepping
away from the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ), giving the "Come Fido"
or "Walk Fido". The Yorkie Puppy will likely get up and move with
you, but if he or she doesn't stop and wait, do not use the leash to
pull. When the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) gets up to move
towards you repeat the command and start to move, matching your pace to
the puppies.
Never, ever use the leash or collar to drag the Yorkie Puppy or allow
the Yorkie Puppy to drag you. If the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier )
starts to go in a direction the owner doesn't want to go, simply stop
until the Yorkie quits pulling and then continue, but do not go
in the direction the Yorkie wanted to go. They need to learn that
you are setting the course and that they are not.
Some tips for leash training your Yorkie include:
Always exercise the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) by playing a
game off leash before setting out on a leash training exercise.
Walking on the sidewalk is very challenging as there are so many new
sights, sounds and even people that it is often very difficult for the
Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) to focus.
Watch for signs that the Yorkie is not attending to you. When
you notice this happening simply turn and walk the opposite direction,
but don't pull or drag the Yorkie . Soon he or she will learn to keep
one eye watching what you are doing.
Keep the leash loose, not tight. The only time the leash should be
tight is if you are changing directions and even then only for a split
second.
Don't turn leash training into a power struggle between yourself and
your Yorkie . Often this is very difficult for people and puppies, so
attending an obedience training program can help both puppies and owners
learn how to approach this training routine successfully.
Don't always walk in the same area and place, give your puppy a
chance to explore new areas while on the leash.
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