Here's a fun little test to see how clever your Yorkshire Terrier is. Since much of this has to do with learned skills, this is more accurate for adult dogs that are at least at the 1 year mark:
Jot down your answers to the following 5 questions and then check below once you are done:
1) If your Yorkie finds that his water dish is empty, he then:
A: Lies down beside it and stays quiet
B: Gets your attention by barking
C: Picks up the bowl with his mouth and brings it over to you
2) How many toys can your Yorkshire Terrier identify by name (you call out the name of a particular toy and he brings it to you)?
A: None
B: One or two
C: Just about all of them
3) If you take your Yorkie for walk at just about the same time each day, what usually happens:
A: You have to find him, interrupt what he's doing and bring him for the walk
B: He starts to act a bit restless and seems to know it's time to go
C: He has mouthed his leash and/or is waiting for you by the door
4) How long did it take your Yorkshire Terrier to learn to sit (with consistent
training)?
A: He hasn't quite learned it yet (and you've tried teaching him and he is at least one year old)
B: 3 months or longer
C: 2 months or less
5) I can tell what type of
mood
my Yorkie is in, just by his/her facial expression:
A: Not really; he/she has the same expression no matter what
B: Only with severe moods such as being overly frustrated or exceedingly excited
C: Quite often. My Yorkie has expressions for many emotions and is very easy to read
Okay, time to check your answers...
If you have mostly A's, Yorkie didn't score very high. This can happen if a dog doesn't have enough one-on-one time with his owners and/or is under-stimulated. Trying playing some bonding games together, work on some commands just for fun and take time at least once every 2 weeks to explore a new outside area. It can also help to have a consistent schedule in regard to
feedings
and walks.
If you have mostly B's, your Yorkie placed as smart. You're doing a great job in teaching your dog. Since things are going well, why not teach him to understand even more words (toys are the easiest) and work on one extra command just for fun.
If you have mostly C's your Yorkie is displaying a high level of intelligence, cleverness and intuitive thinking.