Yorkshire Terrior

Question
I recently got a yorky and he is 1 year old.  I also have a 3 year old daughter and was wondering if this type of dog is compatable with a young child. We just got him today and he has already snapped at her twice, now mind you my 3 year old is very energetic.  So I.m no sure is this dog is a good fit with her personality.  I would like it to work because it was free and it came from a household of 6 kids so I thought that it was use to kids.  

thanks for your consideration.  

Answer
Melissa,

Sometimes kids and dogs dont mix well.  Sometimes, it is temporary and will resolve in time and sometimes not. Just because a dog has been in a house with kids doesnt mean that they LIKE kids.  I have a dog that I would never place in a home with children.  She will bite them.  I've trained my CHILDREN to avoid situations where it is likely she will bite and always have her in a crate in a closed room when company is over.  Yet, she has been around children her whole life.....  

Anytime I have a client with a toddler in the house and a snappish dog, I highly recommend separating the two.  With a solid door in between.  I never underestimate the damage a dog (even a small one)can do to a toddler, and neither should you.

I would seriously reconsider accepting such a dog into your home.  While you have good intentions and are trying to do the right thing, sometimes a dog needs a different home than you can provide.

If you decide to try, please consult with a veterinarian who specializes in behavior issues to try and resolve the conflict.  But in the meantime it's imperative that you keep your child safe.