Yorkie

Bringing your Yorkie Puppy Home

Getting a new Yorkie puppy is an exciting time. We know how fun it is and all the shopping for new toys and all the things. We want to make sure you have information on how to care for your new little Yorkie Puppy from XOXO Yorkies. We love each one so much from our home to yours.

Feeding Your Yorkie Puppy

Yorkies need to eat regularly, a minimum of twice a day. They cannot skip a meal. Small breeds like the Yorkie need to have food on board always. Sometimes people will change their food right after they go home. This is a big no no. Changing their food can give them diahrrhea. It can also be very hard on their sensitive tummies. Please don't change their food until a few weeks after they have acclimated to your home, and even then do it very very slowly! If your Yorkie ever throws up yellow foam or liquid, this is stomach bile. It means they have no food in them and that can get scary quickly. New puppy's want to play play play, and if they play hard and dont eat, it can be a receipe for disaster. Make sure you have karo syrup or nutrical on hand always, even when they are an adult.

🐾 Managing Your Small Dog: Play, Crate, and Potty

Playtime and Mental Stimulation

Playtime for a small dog is crucial for their physical and mental well-being, but it needs to be managed to prevent over-excitement, especially right before a scheduled nap or potty break. Since small dogs have delicate joints, focus on short, frequent bursts of play—about 5-10 minutes—rather than long, strenuous sessions. Utilize interactive games like fetch with a soft toy or gentle tug-of-war, which also build your bond. Incorporate mental stimulation through puzzle feeders or hide-and-seek games to tire them out mentally, which can be just as effective as physical exercise. A well-timed play session followed by a trip outside helps them expend energy and makes them more receptive to relaxing in their crate afterwards.

Crate Training for Safety and Routine

The crate should be introduced as a safe, comfortable den, not a punishment. For small dogs, ensure the crate is appropriately sized—just big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down. This size is key for successful potty training, as dogs naturally resist soiling their sleeping area. Start by making the crate appealing: feed meals inside and place cozy bedding and safe chew toys there. Gradually increase the time they spend inside, always using a consistent, positive command like "Kennel" or "Crate." The crate is an invaluable tool for establishing a routine, managing alone time, and ensuring they have a quiet place to settle down after a stimulating play session.

Potty Training Through Routine and Praise

Successful potty training relies heavily on a predictable schedule and vigilant supervision. Small dogs have small bladders, so take them out frequently—every 30 minutes to an hour when they are awake, immediately upon waking up, after playtime, and after eating or drinking. Use a specific phrase, like "Go potty," and wait patiently in a designated potty area. The moment they finish, offer immediate, enthusiastic praise and a small, high-value treat. Never punish accidents inside; simply clean them thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors. If your dog is struggling, consider incorporating the "Umbilical Cord" method (keeping them tethered to you) or using the crate for brief periods of supervision, followed by a guaranteed trip outside. Consistency is the single most important factor for success.