Yorkie Dominating Husband

Question

I have a yorkie and he is 12 years old . He is very cute but very demanding, of my husband especially . He doesn't let my husband stay on the computer or any length time. He barks till my husband gets on the floor so he can hump him. We could never break him of this. I want to know why he does this?

Answer

The short answer to this question is... because he can. It sounds like your little dog is trying to be the alpha male of the house. ANY positive response that he receives from dominance behavior ensures that it will be repeated. He should be placed in a crate out of earshot until your husband is good and ready to let him out. He should never be allowed to hump a human or dictate a human's behavior. Your husband should NEVER get down to his level. Getting on the floor for the dog to hump him is an act of submission and it's no wonder this dog is a little tyrant.

Your husband, especially, should begin obedience training with him immediately, preferably with the help of a certified trainer. If not, a good dog training book will suffice. Teaching him simple obedience skill will strengthen the dog/master bond and make for a much happier relationship for both of them. Letting him rule the roost will make him insecure and he will continue to test his boundaries until some are established for him.

Good luck to you all,
Sara F. Jennen DVM