Bringing a new baby into the home is a big change for everyone, including your Yorkshire Terrier. Since Yorkies are affectionate and attached to their owners, they may feel jealous, anxious, or confused when the baby arrives.
With the right approach, you can help your Yorkie adjust to the new family member while maintaining a loving bond.
Preparing Your Yorkie Before the Baby Arrives
1. Gradually Change Their Routine
✔ Start adjusting their feeding and walking schedule to match your future routine.
✔ If they sleep in your bed but won’t be allowed after the baby arrives, transition them to their own bed now.
2. Introduce Baby Sounds and Smells
✔ Play recordings of baby sounds (crying, cooing) at low volume and gradually increase it.
✔ Apply baby lotion or powder on your hands so your Yorkie can get used to the new scent.
3. Reinforce Training and Boundaries
✔ Teach “stay” and “off” to prevent jumping on the baby.
✔ Train them to remain calm when hearing crying or sudden movements.
Introducing Your Yorkie to the Baby
1. First Meeting Should Be Calm
✔ Let your Yorkie sniff a blanket or clothing with the baby’s scent before meeting them.
✔ Keep your Yorkie on a leash for the first interaction.
✔ Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
2. Supervise All Interactions
✔ Never leave your Yorkie alone with the baby.
✔ Allow gentle sniffing from a safe distance.
✔ If they show curiosity without barking or jumping, reward them.
Helping Your Yorkie Feel Included
✔ Give attention when the baby is around – This prevents jealousy.
✔ Let them be nearby during baby care (at a safe distance).
✔ Stick to daily walks and playtime – Don’t neglect their routine.
Common Challenges & Solutions
- Yorkie is barking too much? – Reward quiet behavior and use a calm voice.
- Showing signs of jealousy? – Offer treats when they behave well around the baby.
- Avoiding the baby? – Allow them to adjust at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your Yorkie can learn to love and accept the new baby as part of the family. Over time, they may even become protective and affectionate siblings! 🐶👶✨
