Why is my Yorkie Whining for Attention? FIND OUT

Does your Yorkshire Terrier cry a lot? It’s just a phase and he is probably seeking attention. Let him sit with you as if you are watching the computer or the TV.

Provide him with the attention he needs but if it’s too much then a stern ‘NO’ should teach him. If he is bored, get him some chew treats or bones, those typically keep them occupied.

Why is my Yorkie Crying for attention?

Yorkies cry for attention because they’re such crybabies. My trainer recommends ignoring the behavior you don’t like when they’re vying for attention, such as jumping up and barking.

Try this – turn your body away from the dog and simply continue with what you’re doing. It could take months before the behavior is corrected but with persistence, it does work eventually.

When you do not react to their cries, they’d learn that freaking out doesn’t do them any good.

ALSO SEE: Why Does My Yorkie Cry for No Reason?

If your Yorkie is whining for attention, it could be due to several reasons:

1. Desire for Interaction: Yorkies are social dogs that thrive on companionship and attention from their owners. They may whine as a way to communicate their need for interaction and engagement. Your Yorkie may be seeking your attention, wanting to play, be petted, or simply spend time with you.
2. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation: If your Yorkie is not getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they may resort to whining for attention. They might be signaling their boredom or a need for activities that engage their mind and body. Providing them with toys, puzzle games, or regular exercise can help alleviate their restlessness and reduce attention-seeking behavior.
3. Anxiety or Distress: Whining can also be a sign of anxiety or distress in dogs. Your Yorkie may whine when they feel anxious, scared, or uncomfortable in certain situations. They may seek your attention and reassurance to help alleviate their anxiety. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of their anxiety, such as loud noises, separation anxiety, or changes in the environment, can help reduce their whining behavior.
4. Reinforcement of Behavior: If you have inadvertently rewarded your Yorkie’s whining in the past by giving them attention, they may have learned that whining is an effective way to get what they want. Dogs are quick learners, and if they associate whining with receiving attention or rewards, they may continue this behavior. It’s important to avoid reinforcing their whining by not giving in to their demands or providing attention when they whine. Instead, wait for a moment of calm or engage with them when they are displaying desired behaviors.
5. Medical Issues: Occasionally, whining can be a sign of pain, discomfort, or an underlying medical condition. If your Yorkie’s whining is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other unusual behaviors, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns.

To address your Yorkie’s whining for attention, consider the following strategies:

• Ensure your Yorkie receives sufficient mental and physical stimulation through playtime, walks, and interactive toys.
• Establish a consistent routine that includes regular exercise, feeding, and designated playtime to reduce boredom.
• Teach your Yorkie alternative behaviors, such as sitting calmly or bringing a toy, to request attention rather than whining.
• Ignore the whining behavior and provide attention or rewards only when they are calm and quiet.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding your Yorkie for desirable behaviors and ignoring or redirecting unwanted behaviors.
• If separation anxiety is a concern, gradually desensitize your Yorkie to being alone and seek professional guidance if needed.
• Consider providing your Yorkie with a safe space, such as a crate or a designated area, where they can retreat and feel secure when they need alone time.

Remember, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when modifying your Yorkie’s behavior. If the whining persists or becomes excessive, consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer can provide further guidance and support.

Why is my Yorkie Whining for Attention?

Your Yorkie is a pack animal and need an actual connection to us. In the wild, they would do play time with other members of their pack by working together and laying on them when resting.

To dogs, this is important. As a puppy, a canine is charged with curiosity and energy and this baby needs more exercise and stimulation that you’d get.

Kong toys, a run in the garden, squirrels in the tree/stump, lots of squeaky toys and all are good but unless you mentally and physically connect with your little one beyond just the occasional playtime and give him the quality time that a dog thrives on, you are denying a canine one of his life’s greatest actual needs in order to be a happy and fulfilled dog.

Just because you are there in the room with your dog is not enough – they need interaction, fun play, mental stimulation, fun training and exercise.

Talk to your baby with one-words so he gets that mommy is busy. Give toys and treats as you go about your daily activities. When you get the chance, engage in real interaction, especially with a puppy.

So, start a good training program, add different fun games and talk to that baby often so that a connection is formed with your little pack animal.