Challenging to train feisty
Are Yorkshire Terriers easy to train?
Honest answer: Yorkshire Terriers are challenging to train. They're independent thinkers driven by their own instincts. Not impossible. But better suited to experienced dog owners who understand how to work with, not against, a strong-willed dog.
✗ Challenging to train
Best suited to: experienced dog owners · Key traits: feisty, affectionate, curious
How easy are Yorkshire Terriers to train?
Yorkshire Terriers are honest work to train. Their curious, nose-driven nature means they're easily distracted by more interesting stimuli than whatever you're trying to teach. Their boldness means they push back on commands they find unconvincing.
This doesn't mean Yorkshire Terriers can't be trained. With the right approach, they absolutely can be. But it does mean you can't rely on the dog to meet you halfway. The training methodology matters as much as the effort you put in.
Training tips specific to Yorkshire Terriers
- High-value treats only. Dry kibble doesn't cut it with a breed that has strong independent instincts. Use real chicken, cheese, or liver treats. The reward needs to be worth more than whatever else is competing for their attention.
- Short sessions, always ending positively. 5–10 minutes maximum. If a session isn't going well, step back to something the dog knows and end on a success. Never end on a failed command.
- Make it their idea. Yorkshire Terriers respond better when training feels like their choice rather than a demand. Capturing behaviour (rewarding something the dog does naturally) is often more effective than repeated command drilling.
- Puppy classes are strongly recommended. Not optional with this breed. A good trainer who understands the breed's independent nature will give you techniques that actually work.
- Patience over persistence. Pushing harder when a Yorkshire Terrier resists rarely works. Step back, try a different approach, and come back to it another day.
What Yorkshire Terriers find easiest and hardest to learn
Which commands do Yorkshire Terriers pick up quickest?
Commands with an immediate, clear reward structure are usually the easiest for Yorkshire Terriers. Their natural curiosity means recall training is particularly challenging. There's always something more interesting. Sit tends to come relatively easily; reliable recall and stay at a distance require much more work.
What do Yorkshire Terriers struggle with most?
Reliable recall is usually the hardest skill for Yorkshire Terriers. Their curious nature makes them highly distractible outdoors. Always the worst environment for a challenging breed. Long-line training before off-lead work is essential. Train recall from day one with very high-value rewards, and never let it become an optional command.
Full Yorkshire Terrier profile. Temperament, shedding, costs and more.
Read the complete Yorkshire Terrier breed guide →More questions about training Yorkshire Terriers
Are Yorkshire Terriers good for first-time owners?
Yorkshire Terriers are better suited to people with prior dog-owning experience. The independent, challenging temperament is much easier to navigate when you've handled a strong-willed dog before. First-time owners who are very committed and willing to get professional help can absolutely make it work. But go in with clear eyes.
Do Yorkshire Terriers respond well to puppy classes?
Puppy classes are strongly recommended for Yorkshire Terriers. Not optional. Finding a trainer who has specific experience with independent or stubborn breeds makes a significant difference. Avoid classes that rely heavily on repetitive drilling; look for trainers using engagement-focused techniques.
How long does it take to train a Yorkshire Terrier?
Basic obedience commands (sit, down, stay, come) can typically be established in 4–8 weeks of daily short sessions for most dogs. With Yorkshire Terriers, expect the longer end of that. And be prepared for it to take longer in distracting environments. Reliable performance in all environments. Which is what actually matters. Takes months of consistent practice.
More questions about Yorkshire Terriers
Do they shed?Do they bark a lot?Are they good with kids?Are they good with cats?Are they hypoallergenic?Are they good family dogs?Are they aggressive?How long do they live?How much exercise?How much do they cost?Good for first-time owners?Good for seniors?Good in hot weather?Good in cold weather?Good guard dogs?Good running dogs?Can they be left alone?Good with other dogs?Good apartment dogs?Easy to groom?