Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

How to socialize my antisocial 1.5-year-old Yorkie with dogs & people?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 4 lbs

i have a very antisocial mini Yorkshire terrier whom I want to be more social and outgoing. He is a male that is a year and a half old and I want him to be able to meet new dogs comfortable and with less fear. I also want him to be okay around people. what do i do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 25th, 2018

He's pretty old to start working on that, so keep your expectations low, but you can start by having him around other dogs in very low key settings. Start really far away, give him lots of treats, and leave if he seems at all uncomfortable. Here's a website that goes in to dog body language a bit: https://positively.com/dog-training/understanding-dogs/canine-body-language/ I would also consider talking to his vet to see if they think he needs medication to help with general anxiety, or if he's a normal dog who just isn't very social. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored