Yorkie Puppy Checklist
Supplies Checklist:
- High-quality puppy food and treats
- Stainless steel food and water bowls
- Puppy-sized collar and leash
- ID tag with your contact info
- Crate (24-inch recommended for Yorkies)
- Bedding for the crate (washable pad or blanket)
- Puppy-safe chew toys (rubber, nylon, plush)
- Interactive puzzle toys for mental stimulation
- Puppy pads or litter box for housetraining
- Brush, comb, and nail trimmers for grooming
- Shampoo and conditioner made for puppies
- Poop bags and enzymatic cleaner for accidents
- Baby gate to block off rooms when unsupervised
Puppy Proofing Your Home:
- Secure any loose wires, cords, or small objects
- Keep toxic plants, chemicals, and medications out of reach
- Install baby gates to limit access to certain rooms
- Designate a quiet, comfortable space for the puppy to rest
- Provide plenty of chew toys to discourage inappropriate chewing
- Secure trash cans and keep the toilet lid down
New Puppy Care Basics:
- Establish a consistent feeding schedule (3-4 meals per day)
- Take the puppy out frequently to establish housetraining
- Enroll in a positive reinforcement-based training class
- Slowly introduce the puppy to new people, pets, and environments
- Spend time each day playing, cuddling, and bonding with your pup
- Be patient and consistent during the housetraining process
With this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well on your way to setting up your home and providing the optimal care for your new Yorkie puppy.
Feeding and Nutrition:
Yorkies have a very fast metabolism, so they require a nutrient-dense, high-quality puppy food to meet their energy needs. Look for a formula specifically made for small or toy breed puppies. Feed 3-4 meals per day, portioning out the daily recommended amount based on your pup’s weight. Clean, fresh water should always be available.
Housetraining:
Housetraining a Yorkie puppy can take time and patience, but it’s important to be consistent. Designate a potty area outside and take your puppy out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Use puppy pads inside as a backup, and be sure to clean any accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner.
Exercise and Playtime:
Despite their small size, Yorkies are active little dogs that need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. A couple of short walks, plus interactive playtime with toys, will help meet their needs. Be careful not to over-exercise young puppies, as their bones and joints are still developing.
Grooming:
Yorkies require regular brushing and grooming to maintain their luxurious coats. Get your puppy accustomed to handling and grooming early on. You may want to keep their hair trimmed shorter when they’re young to make daily brushing easier. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is also recommended.
Training and Socialization:
Training and socialization are crucial for Yorkies. These intelligent pups respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Start training basics like sit, stay, and come right away. Socialize your puppy extensively to build confidence and prevent behavioral issues down the line.
Health Considerations:
In addition to the common Yorkie health concerns we discussed earlier, be vigilant about signs of low blood sugar, respiratory distress, and joint problems. Schedule regular vet checkups and follow all recommended vaccination and deworming schedules.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home:
Thoroughly puppy-proof your home by securing any small objects or hazards your Yorkie could get into. Use baby gates, crate training, and close supervision when your pup is exploring to prevent accidents or destructive behaviors.
This covers the key areas to focus on, but let me know if you have any other specific questions! Raising a Yorkie puppy is such a rewarding experience, and I’m happy to provide all the guidance I can.