Currently, yorkshire terrier is a very popular dog as a companion dog, however, in the 19th century it fulfilled very different functions. Some dogs of this breed (and any other) can present behavioral problems, such as canine aggression. What causes cause it? How should we proceed?
In this article on our site we will talk about how to train an aggressive YorkshireSo, if you have noticed a change in character lately, aggressive behavior towards other dogs or towards you, it is very important that you start an education process as soon as possible to prevent problems from escalating and becoming chronic.
Are Yorkshires aggressive?
It is not correct to associate certain canine breeds with aggressiveness, however, we can do so with the genetic Although it is not decisive and it is not always occurs, a puppy descended from parents with aggressiveness has a greater predisposition to also develop aggressiveness. Even so, we would speak of a very small percentage of cases, since in general this behavior problem appears after a problem in the socialization of the puppy or related causes with the learning
During the early stages of a dog's life it is essential to practice socialization. It is a sensitive stage in which our dog learns to relate with people, with other dogs and with the objects around him. When he carries out positive social relationships on a regular basis, our dog understands how to act and function in the daily situations that surround him.
However, despite having received good socialization, some dogs begin to show "aggressive" behavior. The causes can be very diverse:
- Socialization problems
- Fear
- Traumas
- Genetics
- He alth problems
- Anxiety and stress
- Sexuality
- Etc.
Aggressive yorkshire puppy
It is especially important to act quickly if our aggressive yorkshire is a puppy, especially if it is between 2 and 3 months of age, as we are more likely to success than in an adult. However, don't worry if your Yorkshire dog is an adult, if we work properly we still have time to modify his behavior
Why is my yorkshire aggressive?
Despite its small size, the Yorkshire Terrier is a curious and very brave dog. To properly treat the problem you must be very observant and analyze what behavioral problem your dog suffers from:
- Diseases: before even assessing a behavioral problem, we must go to our veterinarian to rule out any type of disease or he alth problem. Pain, hypothyroidism or many other pathologies can favor the development of aggressive behavior.
- Socialization: We have already explained what this sensitive stage consists of, which occurs between four weeks of life and two months. A dog that does not understand what canine language is like, that does not know the basic rules of the game or that is unable to relate to a child is potentially susceptible to developing fears, insecurity and, therefore, aggressive behavior.
- Stress and Anxiety: Life in a kennel or breach of the five freedoms of animal welfare can make your Yorkshire feel insecure, stressed and with a lot of anxiety. In these conditions a dog cannot be trained nor can it relate correctly to other dogs or people. You must provide a calm, stable and happy environment for at least 30 days before even thinking about re-education.
- Fear: If your dog has had a negative experience with another dog, he is likely to bark or be aggressive out of fear. In these cases, it will be essential to never force our Yorkshire to interact if he does not want to, we must leave him space so that he himself begins to interact. You can promote this situation by staying with very sociable dogs and walking together at a reasonable distance to avoid any conflict.
- Sexuality: Some dogs can have "aggressive" behavior with others if they are not neutered. In addition to many advantages that castration entails (in which we include a lower risk of developing certain diseases), sterilization of pets will allow us to enjoy the game between specimens of the same sex once adaptation is complete.
- Resource Protection: The dog aggressively "protects" something he considers his property, let's talk about a person, a feeder or an entire room
Of course there are many other causes that can cause aggression in the dog, however, these are the main and most important. In the case of not being able to identify what may be happening, the most advisable thing to do is to go to a veterinarian specialized in ethology, the figure that can best help us diagnose and treat this problem behavior.
How to treat aggression in a Yorkshire terrier?
It is essential to know why our yorkshire is aggressive before starting to work on the problem or apply any type of guideline. Otherwise, there's a good chance we won't fix the problem and, in fact, make it worse. In this sense, going to a professional is the best strategy, since only the specialist can provide us with specific guidelines adapted to our case and carry out regular behavior modification sessions in which the dog learns more positive behaviors.
However, while you wait to contact the professional, you can start treating your dog's problems by following these basic tips:
- Avoid triggers: If your dog bites you when you scold him, he stops immediately. It is likely that you are not communicating correctly with him or that you are applying education techniques that encourage the dog to react negatively. For example, avoid scolding him for getting on the couch and instead congratulate him when he comes down.
- Improve your quality of life: increase the number of walks (or make them longer and more relaxing), exercise or dedicating a special time each day to play with him are options that will help us improve our bond and lower his stress levels.
- Practice dog obedience: Communicating with your dog effectively is essential to help him avoid certain unwanted behaviors. Practice daily 5-minute sessions using only positive reinforcement. When your dog is aggressive you can ask him to lie down or sit, basic commands for dogs, which can help calm the individual or redirect his behavior.
- Take safety measures: Although the Yorkshire is not a particularly large dog, its bite can cause serious harm to children and adults, therefore, always take the appropriate security measures and avoid any situation that could be serious. In this sense, working on the use of the muzzle and applying for civil liability insurance can be basic measures.
Now you know some basic steps to start working on this behavioral problem and that the definitive solution lies in the hands of a professional. Don't forget to share your experience with us!
