Your complete guide to understanding, managing, and transforming Yorkie stubbornness with effective training.
Yorkshire Terriers — or Yorkies — are one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide. Their small size, silky coats, and bold personalities make them irresistible companions. But if you’ve ever tried to train one, you already know that beneath that adorable exterior lies a dog with a strong will and a streak of stubbornness.
So, why are Yorkies stubborn? And more importantly — how can you train them in a way that works for both you and your dog? This guide explores everything from the psychology behind Yorkie stubbornness to step‑by‑step training techniques that truly get results.
1. What “Stubbornness” Really Means in Dogs
It’s easy to label a dog as stubborn, but in canine behavior the term usually refers to independent thinking or selective obedience. Dogs don’t truly resist because they’re “bad” — they often decide when it benefits them to follow a command. This is especially true for breeds that have a history of working independently without human direction.
Yorkies fit this pattern: they are smart, confident, and sometimes act on their own agenda. They aren’t trying to defy you out of malice — they just weigh the value of obeying each command based on their own priorities. gooddog.com
2. Why Yorkies Tend to Be Stubborn
A. Terrier Heritage and Independent Thinking
Yorkies belong to the terrier group, a class of dogs originally bred for independent tasks like hunting vermin. Terriers were expected to work alone, make decisions, and pursue prey without direct supervision. That ancient instinct still shows up as confidence and a mind of their own — even today. gooddog.com
B. High Intelligence + Selective Obedience
Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent dogs. They learn commands quickly, but often choose when to obey. They may ignore you not because they don’t understand, but because they decide it’s not in their interest to comply (at least at that moment). iHeartDogs.com
This intelligence can work for training when harnessed correctly — but it also means consistent leadership and good motivation are essential.
C. Confidence That Borders on “Bossiness”
Yorkies often act bigger and bolder than their tiny size would suggest. They’re alert, curious, and sometimes demanding. Their confidence can come across as stubbornness when they push boundaries or challenge household rules. Mawoo Pets
D. Bonding and Separation Anxiety
Because many Yorkies become deeply attached to their owners, their stubborn behavior can sometimes stem from fear of being separated or uncertainty about what you expect. This emotional attachment can make them cling, test limits, or become resistant if they don’t feel secure or understood. Mawoo Pets
3. Common Signs of Stubborn Behavior in Yorkies
Understanding what your Yorkie might be communicating helps with training:
Refusing basic commands like “come,” “sit,” or “stay.”
Ignoring recall and choosing their own direction instead.
Selective hearing — responding when treats are present but not otherwise.
Testing limits — nudging furniture rules, barking persistently, or demanding attention.
Frequent distractions — losing interest mid‑training session.
These behaviors aren’t laziness — they’re expressions of intelligence, independence, and sometimes confusion about expectations. Yorkies & Cross-Breeds
4. Why Traditional “Force” Doesn’t Work
Some dog owners think that stubborn dogs need stronger corrections, but coercive methods (such as yelling, physical force, or punishment) tend to backfire with Yorkies. These dogs are sensitive; harsh training can cause fear, anxiety, and distrust — and make stubborn behavior worse, not better. Mawoo Pets
Yorkies respond much better to positive reinforcement, clear cues, and consistency rather than pressure or punishment.
5. The Best Training Philosophy for Yorkies
The most effective training philosophy for Yorkshire Terriers combines:
✔ Positive reinforcement
✔ Short, fun training sessions
✔ Consistency and routine
✔ Reward‑based motivation
✔ Patience and gradual progression
This approach helps your Yorkie see training as fun and rewarding instead of a chore or battle of wills.
6. Positive Reinforcement: What It Is and Why It Works
Positive reinforcement means rewarding behavior you want to see again. This can include:
🍖 Tasty treats
🏆 Praise and affection
🎾 Playtime or favorite toys
✔ Verbal encouragement
When your Yorkie performs a command and gets a reward immediately, they learn exactly which behavior led to the reward. Over time, that association makes them more likely to obey on command. Mawoo Pets
Yorkies, in particular, often respond strongly to food rewards and praise, making positive reinforcement especially effective with this breed. Mawoo Pets
7. Training Techniques That Work With Stubborn Yorkies
A. Keep Sessions Short and Engaging
Yorkies have short attention spans. Long training sessions can bore them and lead to disinterest or resistance. Aim for 5–10 minute sessions, multiple times per day — and always end on a positive note. Yorkies & Cross-Breeds
B. Be Consistent — Always
Consistency is one of the most important aspects of training a Yorkie. Use the same commands and reward patterns every time. If you allow a behavior sometimes but not others, your Yorkie will get mixed signals and become even more stubborn. Bazoef Petfood
C. Clear Communication is Key
Use simple, consistent cues:
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“Sit”
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“Stay”
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“Come”
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“Leave it”
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“Quiet”
Short, clear commands are easier for Yorkies to understand and follow. Repetition builds clarity and reduces confusion. Let\’s Learn Slang
D. Use High‑Value Rewards
Not all rewards are equally motivating. Some Yorkies respond best to food, others to toys, or even praise — find out what your Yorkie values most, and use that consistently during training. lyka.com.au
E. Redirect, Don’t Argue
If your Yorkie ignores a command:
✔ Redirect to another positive action
✔ Reward quickly when they comply
✘ Don’t argue or try to overpower them
For example, if they won’t “sit,” call them to another behavior like “look” — reward immediately — then circle back to “sit.” This reduces resistance without confrontation. Yorkies and Terriers
F. Clicker Training Can Help Precision
Clicker training gives immediate feedback — the click marks the exact moment your dog does something right, followed by a reward. Yorkies often pick up on this quickly and enjoy the game‑like format. Let\’s Learn Slang
8. How to Teach Core Commands to a Stubborn Yorkie
1. Sit
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Hold a treat above their nose
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Pull gently upward until they naturally sit
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Say “Sit” and click/reward immediately
2. Stay
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Once “Sit” is mastered, add the cue “Stay”
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Step back one small step at a time and reward calm compliance
3. Come
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Start in a quiet environment
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Say “Come” enthusiastically
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Reward generously when they comply
4. Leave It
Great for when Yorkies try to snatch food or toys:
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Offer a treat in a closed hand
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Say “Leave it”
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Reward when they look away, then give a different treat
These commands form the foundation for good behavior and help curb stubborn tendencies by giving your Yorkie meaningful structure. Let\’s Learn Slang
9. Training Through Play and Mental Challenges
Yorkies thrive when their minds are stimulated. In addition to obedience training, interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and scent games keep their intelligence engaged — which can reduce boredom-driven stubbornness. Pawsome Authority
10. Special Considerations: Housebreaking and Potty Training
Potty training can be especially challenging with Yorkies due to their small bladders and independent tendencies. Key tips:
✔ Use a consistent schedule
✔ Reward immediately after success
✔ Supervise closely during training periods
✔ Consider crate training during early weeks
Consistency and frequent rewards help reduce stubborn resistance and make success more likely. Mawoo Pets
11. Barking and Vocal Control
Yorkies love to bark — they are watchful and alert. However, if barking becomes stubborn, you can teach a “quiet” command:
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Let them bark briefly
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Say “Quiet” in a calm, firm voice
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Reward when they pause
Over time, they learn that quiet behavior gets them rewards — transforming stubborn barking into controlled communication. Yorkies and Terriers
12. Socialization to Reduce Stubborn Reactivity
Socialization — exposing your Yorkie to new people, environments, and animals in positive ways — reduces fear‑based reactions and strengthens cooperation during training. Early exposure builds confidence and reduces resistance to unfamiliar situations. Bazoef Petfood
13. Handling Regression and Refreshing Training
Even well‑trained Yorkies sometimes regress — especially if consistency slips or they aren’t mentally stimulated. The key strategies to handle backsliding:
✔ Return to basics commands
✔ Short refresher sessions
✔ Increase rewards
✔ Reduce distractions
Training isn’t a one‑time event; it’s a lifestyle habit for your dog. Yorkies & Cross-Breeds
14. Common Mistakes Owners Make During Training
Avoid these pitfalls:
❌ Rewarding unwanted behavior (e.g., attention when barking)
❌ Using inconsistent commands
❌ Overly long training sessions
❌ Punishing instead of rewarding
❌ Not keeping training fun and engaging
Correcting these mistakes can turn a stubborn Yorkie into an enthusiastic learner. Bazoef Petfood
15. Advanced Training: Tricks, Agility, and Fun Challenges
Once basic obedience is solid, Yorkies often shine with more advanced training:
✔ Agility drills scaled for small breeds
✔ Trick training (“shake,” “spin,” “roll over”)
✔ Scent work
✔ Obstacle games
These not only reinforce obedience but also build confidence and deepen your bond. Yorkies and Terriers
16. Training Tools That Complement Yorkie Stubbornness
Useful tools include:
🟡 Clickers — for precise reinforcement
🟢 Harnesses — for leash training comfort
🟡 Puzzle toys — for mental stimulation
🟢 Reward bags — easy access to treats during sessions
These tools support structure and consistency, which are essential for training stubborn dogs. Let\’s Learn Slang
17. When to Seek Professional Help
Some behaviors — extreme stubbornness, aggression, fear responses, or housebreaking resistance — may require help from:
⭐ Certified dog trainers
⭐ Positive reinforcement behaviorists
⭐ Puppy classes or group training sessions
Professional guidance accelerates progress and strengthens owner confidence.
18. Real Yorkie Owner Experiences
Yorkie owners often describe the breed as “stubborn but lovable.” Online communities report that persistence, patience, and treats are key, but training often becomes a joyful part of everyday life. Many say their Yorkies respond when they want to — and the trick is making training something they want to do. Reddit
19. Final Thoughts: Turn Stubbornness Into Cooperation
Why are Yorkies stubborn?
Because they are intelligent, independent, confident, and motivated by what matters to them. Their terrier heritage and social personality make them less inclined to blindly follow commands — but with the right training philosophy, you can turn that independence into a powerful ally.
Train with patience, positivity, and consistency, and your Yorkie’s stubborn streak becomes one of the traits that make them both challenging and deeply rewarding companions.
Sources & Further Reading
Here are the linked sources you can reference or explore:
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Yorkshire Terrier temperament and stubborn tendencies — Good Dog gooddog.com
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Breed guide on trainability and independence — Nordom Boxer Nordom – German Boxers Kennel
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Interactive training strategies and behavior fixes — MawooPets.com Mawoo Pets
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Basic training reminders and attention span notes — Yorkie Times Yorkies & Cross-Breeds
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Personality traits including independence — iHeartDogs iHeartDogs.com
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Breed info with training suggestions — PetKlubs PetKlubs
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Comprehensive temperaments and socialization tips — Snuffalo Snuffalo
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Positive training techniques and tips — Lets Learn Slang Let\’s Learn Slang
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Practical training guidance and advanced techniques — Bazoef Petfood Bazoef Petfood
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Training challenges and independent behavior — PuppySimply puppysimply.com
