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Socialization is extremely
important for Yorkshire terrier puppies as with any breed of dog.
Socialization is part of training, teaching, and familiarizing theYorkie
by acquainting them to new environments or experiences and should
continue up to at least age two. This includes interacting with other
animals, family members, gentle and calm children, and strangers on an
ongoing and steady basis. It not only helps the Yorkshire terrier puppy
form a strong bond with its owner but also teaches the puppy boundaries
but without fear or anxiety and helps raise a well-adjusted, confident
Yorkie. Proper socialization at an early age, especially during
the first three or four months, helps prevent your Yorkie from
developing aggression, fearfulness, shyness and other severe behavioral
problems as he or she matures. Once your Yorkie puppy has all
his puppy vaccinations so he is protected from disease, start taking him
for regular walks and outings. This is a gradual way to socialize the
puppy with the outdoors and other dogs, children and people. This should
always be a positive, fun experience for your Yorkie pup
accompanied by praise, treats, and lots of love.
Yorkshire terrier puppies begin learning at birth and your focus should
not be on obedience or manners but socialization. Many experts believe
that a puppy's main socialization time-period is up to three months old.
They do continue learning from twelve to sixteen weeks, but not as
quickly. The full socialization period for a Yorkshire terrier
puppy is approximately two years. Be sure that you have complete control
over all socialization environments your puppy will encounter such as
sounds, surfaces, places, humans, dogs, puppies and other small animals.
You should socialize your puppy to everything such as funny and strange
noises, interesting sights, other dogs, and use quiet restraint, where
you praise your puppy and only release or free him when he settles down
or is calm. A dog park is a great way to help socialize your puppy but
because Yorkies are such a tiny breed, only after the age of six months
and with full supervision and protection by you.
By the time your puppy is three months old, it should have experienced
many different surfaces such as grass, carpet, cement, wood, and puddles
and different locations including other people's homes, garage,
schoolyard, and the front yard. He should have played with many
different types of toys, met people outside the family, including
elderly adults, people with canes, children and fast moving objects such
as squirrels, children running, and vacuums. The list goes on, as there
is so much for your Yorkie to see and experience.
There are many great puppy socialization classes or Yorkie
playtime groups that owners can attend with their Yorkshire terrier
puppy. Remember that everything is a new experience for your Yorkie pup
and is fun and exciting. He learns what tastes good, behavior that is
acceptable, how to approach other animals and people, and many other
things. All socialization experiences should be fun and stress free for
both you and your puppy, so it is important to be persistent but patient
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