behavior

Question
I bought a yorkie last month (May 2007)  He was born march 1,2007.  The potty training is going good.  The problem I am having is that the dog doesn't want to come to anyone.  Runs when you try and pick him up.  I have another dog that is a chichua (can't spell sorry) and shitz mix and they get along ok.  My yorkie (Chance is his name) seems to be wanting the alpha dog position.  When I am loving or petting on him and my other dog (tyson) comes up chance nips and growls at tyson.  But if I am loving on tyson then chance wants me to hold bim but will run when I go to pick him up.  He won't jump or come.  How do I get this to stop.  I have been very patient.  No yelling, scolding, or rough housing.  I just love and try to play with him.  How can I get him to warm up?  Thanks

Answer
Hi JoAnna, It sounds like you you were not too happy with my previous reply. Please allow me to make sure I have the facts. You have: a Chihuahua. How old is it, male or female, and how long have you had it?  You also have a shitz mix (Tyson), male or female, age, how long have you owned him?  And you recently got a Yorkshire Terrier (Chance) last month, who is 3 1/2 months old and male. Are any of these animals intact or are they neutered or spayed?  Your main problem is that Chance, the Yorkie runs away and doesn't want to be picked up. You want to be able to have the dogs together, sitting quietly, enjoying having you pet them.  Am I correct so far?  What I try to do with my pack of kids is to speak quietly to them, one on my left, one on my right and one at my feet or on my lap and tell them to "be gentle to your brother or sister". I use their names so that they become acquainted with each other's names. Of course they are all hoping to get the most of "mom's" attention and I try to  distribute it evenly.  Since Chance is young, possibly the youngest, he is probably unsure of where he stands in the pack order.  He needs to know that he will  get equal mommy time and love and does not need to either growl or run away. It has only been four weeks and it sounds like you are doing a great job at trying to make everyone feel loved.  The older dog, Tyson, has a new pup to contend with and the younger dog (Chance) has a need for affection.  I really think that you will make it clear to them all that you love them all equally and will be sure to give them each their share of affection.  Try giving it a little more time, even if it means that you must cuddle one at a time for a while.  Next thing you know they will happily be cleaning out each other's ears. Keep me posted in your progress with them.  I really am here for you and I'm trying my best to understand your situation.  Sometimes the letter writing makes it hard to get a good picture of the situation.  So being as detailed as possible in your letters makes it easier for us to understand each other. Okay? I wish you only the very best.  My dogs are my children and I really do know how important it is for them to love each other as well.  Thanks. Regards, Susan