Do you have a Yorkie that just won’t sit still? Are you tired of constantly chasing them around and struggling to get them to listen to you? Well, it’s time to teach your furry friend the basic command that every well-behaved dog should know: sit! With a little patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can easily train your Yorkie to sit on command and enjoy a more obedient and happy relationship with your furry companion. So, let’s get started!
Step 1: Get the Right Equipment
Before you start training your Yorkie, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. You’ll need a leash and collar, as well as some tasty treats that your dog loves. The leash and collar should be well-fitted, and not too tight or too loose. The treats should be small, soft, and easy to chew.
Step 2: Start with a Basic Command
Begin by teaching your dog a basic command, such as ‘come’. Stand a few feet away from your dog and call their name followed by the command. For example, ‘Buddy, come!’. When your dog comes to you, give them a treat and lots of praise. Repeat this exercise until your dog responds consistently.
Step 3: Introduce the ‘Sit’ Command
Once your Yorkie has mastered the ‘come’ command, it’s time to introduce the ‘sit’ command. Start by standing in front of your dog with a treat in your hand, just above their nose. Move the treat upwards, and as your dog follows it with their head, their bottom should naturally lower to the ground. As soon as your dog sits, say the command ‘sit’ and give them the treat.
Step 4: Repeat and Reinforce
Repeat this exercise several times until your pup understands that sitting equals a treat. Once your dog starts to sit consistently, start saying the command ‘sit’ before you give them the treat. This reinforces the connection between the word and the action.
Step 5: Practice in Different Locations
Once your Yorkie has mastered the ‘sit’ command indoors, it’s time to practice in different locations. Take your dog to the park, the beach, or the local dog park, and practice the command in a new environment. This helps your dog understand that the command applies to all situations, not just at home.
Step 6: Keep It Positive
Remember to keep training sessions short and positive. If your dog becomes frustrated or bored, take a break and come back to it later. Always reward your Yorkie with a treat and lots of praise when they get it right, and avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement.
When Things Do Not Work as They Should
Despite your best efforts, things may not always go as smoothly as you hope. Don’t get discouraged! With some patience, persistence, and the right approach, you can successfully train your Yorkie to sit on command. Here are some common obstacles you may encounter during the training process:
Not responding to the command – If your Yorkie is not responding to the ‘sit’ command, try using a treat to lure them into the sitting position. Keep repeating the command and rewarding them with treats and praise when they get it right.
Getting distracted – Yorkies can be easily distracted, so it’s important to find a quiet and distraction-free area to train them. If your dog gets distracted during training, take a break and come back to it later.
Not holding the position – If your pup is not holding the sitting position, try using a hand gesture along with the verbal command to reinforce the behaviour. You can also use a treat to keep them in position.
Jumping up – If your Yorkie jumps up instead of sitting, try standing in front of them and holding a treat just above their nose. As they follow the treat with their head, their bottom should naturally lower to the ground.
Refusing to sit – If your Yorkie is refusing to sit, it could be due to discomfort or pain. Check for any physical issues such as joint pain or an injury, and consult with your veterinarian if necessary.
Questions About Training
How can you make training sessions more enjoyable for your Yorkie? – You can make training sessions more enjoyable for your pup by using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and verbal praise. This will help them associate the behaviour with something positive and make the training process more fun for them.
How long should training sessions be? – Training sessions for a Yorkie should be short and frequent, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes per session. This will help keep your dog engaged and prevent them from getting bored or tired during training.
Why is it important to practice the ‘sit’ command in different locations? – It’s important to practice the ‘sit’ command in different locations to help your Yorkie generalize the behaviour and understand that the command applies in various settings. This will help your dog become more responsive to the command in different situations and environments.
Can you teach an older Yorkie to sit, or is it best to start when they are a puppy? – Yes, you can teach an older Yorkie to sit. It may take a bit more patience and persistence, but with the right approach and positive reinforcement, dogs of any age can learn new commands and behaviours.
With some dedication and patience, teaching your Yorkie to sit can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion. Remember to start with basic commands, introduce the ‘sit’ command slowly, reinforce it consistently, and practice in different locations. If your Yorkie encounters any difficulties, don’t give up! With some adjustments and positive reinforcement, you can overcome any obstacles and successfully train your Yorkie to sit on command. So grab some treats, find a quiet space, and let the training begin!