Yorkshire Terriers are smart and eager to learn, making them great candidates for trick training. Teaching your Yorkie new tricks stimulates their mind, strengthens your bond, and improves obedience.
This guide will cover easy and advanced tricks, with step-by-step training techniques using positive reinforcement.
Best Training Tips for Teaching Tricks
✔ Use small, soft treats – Reward-based training keeps your Yorkie motivated.
✔ Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) – Yorkies have short attention spans.
✔ Train in a quiet space – Fewer distractions mean faster learning.
✔ Be patient and consistent – Repeat each trick daily for the best results.
Easy Tricks to Teach Your Yorkshire Terrier
1. Sit
Why? Essential for obedience and a foundation for other tricks.
✔ Hold a treat above their head and slowly move it back.
✔ As they lift their head, their bottom will naturally sit.
✔ Say “Sit” and reward immediately.
2. Shake Hands (Paw)
Why? A fun and polite greeting trick.
✔ Say “Shake” and gently lift one of their paws.
✔ Reward with a treat and praise.
✔ Repeat until they lift their paw on their own.
3. Lie Down
Why? Helps with impulse control and relaxation.
✔ Start with your Yorkie in a sitting position.
✔ Hold a treat near the ground and slowly move it forward.
✔ When they lie down, say “Lie Down” and reward them.
4. Spin in a Circle
Why? A fun trick that improves coordination.
✔ Hold a treat near their nose and move it in a circular motion.
✔ When they follow the movement, say “Spin” and reward.
✔ Repeat in both directions.
Advanced Tricks for Yorkshire Terriers
1. Play Dead
✔ Start with your Yorkie in a lying down position.
✔ Hold a treat near their side and slowly guide them to roll onto their back.
✔ Say “Bang” or “Play Dead” and reward when they stay still.
2. Stand on Hind Legs (Beg)
✔ Hold a treat above their head and encourage them to lift their front paws.
✔ Say “Stand” or “Beg” and reward them.
✔ Ensure they have good balance before increasing duration.
3. Fetch
✔ Start by tossing a small toy a short distance.
✔ When they pick it up, call them back and offer a treat.
✔ Gradually increase the distance and teach them to drop the toy in your hand.
What If My Yorkie Doesn’t Learn Quickly?
🐶 Be patient – Every dog learns at their own pace.
🐶 Use high-value treats – Cooked chicken or cheese can increase motivation.
🐶 Practice in short bursts – 5-10 minutes a day is better than long sessions.
Teaching tricks is fun, rewarding, and a great way to engage your Yorkie’s intelligence. Start with simple commands, be consistent, and watch your pup master new tricks! 🐶✨
