Introduction
Imagine that you are checking out at a pet store with your dog beside you. You tell him to sit and he politely sits beside you while you finish up. Now imagine that you are out on a walk with your dog and see a neighbor that you would like to talk to. You tell your dog to sit and he calmly sits down beside you while you enjoy a conversation with your neighbor. Now imagine that you are at home and suddenly realize that someone has left your front door open. You realize that your dog is missing and you quickly run outside, calling his name. You spot him across the street, sniffing a bush. He hears you and turns toward you to come in your direction. You suddenly notice a car driving past. You yell for your dog to sit and sigh in relief as the car drives past and you spot your obedient Yorkshire Terrier sitting on the sidewalk.
When your dog knows how to sit it is easier to take him places, to enjoy him, and to keep him safe. 'Sit' is an important command that can be used in many situations and provides a foundation for other, more advanced training. 'Sit" is also a fairly simple command, so it is a great command to teach to your dog as a first command.
Defining Tasks
'Sit' is a wonderful command for your dog to know. It is convenient, useful, and often necessary.
Because your Yorkie is small you will need to sit down or squat yourself in order to teach him. Once he understands the command, then you can gradually stand up more and more every time that he succeeds at doing the command, until you are standing up completely. Because dogs do not always generalize well, standing up gradually as you practice 'sit' will help him to become accustomed to listening to your command while you give it from a different position than the one he is used to.
If you choose to use 'The Pressure Method', when you lift your pup's chin and apply pressure to the base of his tail do not force him into the sitting position. Be very gentle with your pressure. Your goal should be to encourage him to move his bottom away from your fingers on his own, due to the pressure he feels. When he moves his bottom away from your fingers that should cause him to sit down.
Getting Started
To get started you will need lots of small, tasty treats, a Ziploc bag or treat pouch, and an encouraging, patient attitude. If you are using 'The Lure Method' then you might also need a corner to practice the training in, if your pup tries to back up. If you are using 'The Capture Method' then you will need attentiveness and good timing. If you are using 'The Pressure Method', you will also need persistence and gentleness.