Potty training & Crate training

1. Establish a Routine:

   • Set a consistent feeding schedule for your Yorkie puppy. This will help regulate their bathroom habits.

   • Take your puppy outside to the designated potty area:

     • First thing in the morning.

     • Right after meals.

     • Before bedtime.

     • At regular intervals throughout the day (every 45min-1hour for younger puppies).

2. Consider Size and Frequency:

   • Due to their small size, Yorkies have smaller bladders and may need more frequent bathroom breaks. Be prepared to take them outside more often, especially during the early stages of training.

3. Use a Designated Potty Area:

   • Choose a specific spot outside where you want your Yorkie puppy to eliminate. Take them to this spot every time they need to go.

4. Watch for Signs:

   • Keep a close eye on your puppy when they're indoors. Look for signs such as sniffing, circling, or restlessness, which may indicate they need to go potty. If you notice these signs, immediately take them to the designated area outside.

   • Yorkies can be quick and agile, which means they might sneak off to eliminate in hidden corners if not closely supervised. Keep a watchful eye on them indoors and be ready to take them to the designated potty area.

5. Crate Training:

   • Introduce crate training gradually. Yorkies are a toy breed, so consider using a smaller crate that is cozy and comfortable for them. An appropriate size for your Yorkie puppy is large enough to stand up, turn around, and lie down, but not so big they can eliminate and be able to move away from it. Don’t feel bad that it’s small, yorkies are small and can feel more secure in small cozy spaces.

   • Use the crate when you can't supervise your puppy, especially at night or when you're away for short periods. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so this helps with potty training.

     • Watch for Signs of Anxiety:

       -Yorkies can sometimes be prone to separation anxiety. Introduce crate training gradually and positively to help them feel secure in their crate.

6. Positive Reinforcement:

   • Yorkies respond well to positive reinforcement. Use high-value treats and enthusiastic praise when they eliminate in the right spot to reinforce good behavior.

7. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions:

   • Due to their small size and potentially sensitive nature, Yorkies may be affected by extreme weather conditions. Ensure they're comfortable when being taken outside for potty breaks, especially in very hot or cold weather.

8. Accidents Happen:

   • If your puppy has an accident indoors, do not scold or punish them. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent, which can attract the puppy to eliminate there again.

9. Be Consistent:

   • Stick to the routine and schedule as much as possible. Consistency is key for your Yorkie puppy to learn where they should go potty.

10. Patience and Persistence:

    • Potty training takes time, and every puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient, consistent, and understanding throughout the process.

11. Monitor Progress:

    • As your Yorkie puppy progresses, you can gradually give them more freedom indoors under supervision. Always take them to the designated potty spot when transitioning to a new area.

Remember, potty training a Yorkie puppy requires commitment and positive reinforcement. Adjust your training methods based on your puppy's progress and individual needs. With patience and consistency, your Yorkie puppy will learn to effectively go potty in the designated area.