Good Manners Classes
Most dogs will benefit from taking a good manners class of some sort with their handlers. These classes go by various names — basic obedience, pet dog manners, or novice obedience — and teach the basics you and your dog need to get along in society. Puppy classes may or may not include some of these basics.
The Curriculum
Manners classes should be focused on making your dog a good member of the community. He should learn not just to sit, but to sit rather than jump up on people when greeting. (Many Yorkie owners ignore this because their small dogs are in no danger of knocking anyone over, but they can definitely rip stockings and get clothing dirty.) He should learn to lie down on cue and stay there, so you can make sure he'll stay out from underfoot when you're busy doing something. He should learn to walk nicely on a leash, without pulling. (Again, many Yorkie owners ignore this because their dogs are too small to pull them down the street. But pulling can still get annoying, and a Yorkie shouldn't be creating pressure on his throat.) Of course, your dog should learn to come when called. The trainer should also be willing and able to take a little time after class to help solve specific problems such as digging or barking.
Small-Dog Considerations
Group classes usually take all those interested, so you're likely to be sharing your class with large dogs. The trainer should take care to see that handlers take their positions in class without letting their dogs make contact with others. If you don't feel safe, don't hesitate to say so, or even to leave if the problem isn't resolved.
If the trainer or assistant works with you and your dog, she should not loom over your Yorkie — it's polite to approach from the side and to crouch down to the dog's level. These people should have a gentle touch with dogs, and especially small dogs.
Toy dogs may be small, but they're still dogs. You need to let them be dogs. If your Yorkie hides under your chair for the first few minutes, just ignore her. Act unconcerned yourself. She'll see that nothing bad is happening and will gradually feel more secure.
In class, resist the urge to hold your Yorkie on your lap. She should be down on the floor just like all the other dogs. If you decide she'll be worried in class and fuss over her, you'll actually create an insecure dog. As long as you have your own space, out of reach of other dogs, let her see for herself that she's safe near you.
