Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are a delightful breed known for their endearing personalities and tiny statures. While these pint-sized pups are a joy to have around, they are also known for exhibiting some quirky and peculiar behaviors that can leave their owners scratching their heads. If you’re a Yorkie parent, you’ve probably encountered some of these odd actions. In this article, we’ll delve into six weird Yorkie behaviors and what they might mean.
1. The “Yorkie Zoomies”:
Behavior: Your Yorkie suddenly darts around the room in a frenzy, as if being chased by invisible ghosts. This burst of energy can happen at any time and often leaves your pup panting.
What it Means: The “Yorkie Zoomies” are usually a sign of pent-up energy and excitement. Yorkies are active dogs, and these sporadic bursts of energy help them release excess vitality. It’s like a mini exercise session for them, and it’s perfectly normal.
2. Digging Like a Detective:
Behavior: Your Yorkie starts digging furiously, whether it’s in the yard, on the couch, or even on your bed.
What it Means: Digging is an instinctual behavior in many dog breeds, and Yorkies are no exception. They might be trying to create a cozy nest, find hidden treasures (real or imaginary), or simply enjoy the tactile sensation of digging. To redirect this behavior, provide a designated digging area in your yard or a sandbox indoors.
3. Sock Obsession:
Behavior: Your Yorkie is fixated on socks and seems to have a knack for finding them, even when you thought you hid them well.
What it Means: Yorkies have a natural prey drive, and socks, with their soft and movable texture, can trigger this instinct. Chasing and “capturing” socks can be a form of play for them. However, swallowing socks can be dangerous, so it’s essential to keep them out of reach.
4. Sitting on Your Head:
Behavior: Your Yorkie decides that your head, or your face, is the perfect place to rest and plops down without warning.
What it Means: This behavior is a sign of affection and a desire for closeness. Your Yorkie may feel safe and comfortable with you and wants to be as close as possible. It’s their way of showing love and trust.
5. Howling at Sirens:
Behavior: Whenever your Yorkie hears a siren, they respond with a howling serenade that can be surprisingly loud for their size.
What it Means: Howling in response to sirens is an ancient instinct in dogs, often reminiscent of their wolf ancestors. Your Yorkie might be trying to communicate or join in with the sound. It’s perfectly normal, and some dogs simply enjoy the chorus of sirens.
6. “Guarding” Their Food:
Behavior: Your Yorkie growls or snaps at anyone who approaches their food bowl, even if it’s just to check on them.
What it Means: This behavior can be a sign of food possessiveness, which is relatively common in dogs. It often stems from a fear of losing their food source. To address this behavior, consider professional training or consult with a veterinarian or behaviorist for guidance on how to create a positive feeding environment.
In conclusion, while Yorkies may exhibit some quirky behaviors, understanding the reasons behind these actions can help you better care for and bond with your furry companion. Keep in mind that each Yorkie is unique, and their behaviors may vary. If you ever have concerns about your Yorkie’s behavior, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer to ensure a happy and healthy relationship with your beloved pup.
