Tips for potty training your new puppy

Potty training a Yorkshire Terrier puppy can be challenging due to their small size and stubborn streak, but with patience and consistency, you can succeed. Here are some effective tips:

1. Establish a Routine: Take your puppy outside or to their designated potty area at regular intervals, especially after meals, playtime, and naps. Yorkies thrive on routine, so aim for the same times each day.

2. Choose a Designated Spot: Select a specific potty spot, whether it’s outside or on pee pads indoors. Consistently bringing your Yorkie to the same spot helps them associate it with going potty.

3. Watch for Cues: Yorkies often sniff the floor, circle, or seem restless when they need to go. Keep an eye on these signals, especially during the early stages of training, and take them to the potty area immediately.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement: When your puppy goes potty in the right place, praise them enthusiastically and give them a treat. Positive reinforcement is key to teaching them what behavior you want.

5. Be Patient with Accidents: Accidents are inevitable. Clean up thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove any lingering odors, as the scent can encourage them to go in the same spot again.

6. Confine When Unsupervised: Use a crate or a small enclosed area when you can’t supervise your Yorkie. Dogs generally don’t like to eliminate where they sleep, which helps them learn bladder control.

7. Gradually Extend Time Between Breaks: As your Yorkie learns, start spacing out potty breaks a bit longer to encourage them to hold it. This should be done gradually and with close observation.

8. Avoid Punishment: Never scold or punish your Yorkie for accidents. Punishment can cause fear and anxiety, which can lead to more accidents. Instead, refocus on positive reinforcement and gentle redirection.

Yorkshire Terriers may take a little longer to potty train than some other breeds, so stay consistent and patient—persistence will pay off!