Yorkie Crate Training: A Comprehensive Guide

Yorkies, with their spunky personalities and charming size, make wonderful companions. But their training can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to crate training. Don’t worry, though! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully crate train your Yorkie.

Crate training is a valuable tool for teaching your Yorkie independence, providing a safe space, and aiding in housebreaking. It’s also crucial for car rides and vet visits. But before we dive into the process, let’s address some common questions about Yorkie crate training.

Why Should I Crate Train My Yorkie?

Crate training offers numerous benefits for both you and your Yorkie. It’s more than just a confinement method; it’s a positive and enriching experience:

• Safety and Security: A crate provides a safe haven for your Yorkie, especially when you’re not home. It prevents them from getting into trouble and keeps them secure from harm.
• Housebreaking Success: Crate training aids in housebreaking. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas, so a crate helps them learn to hold it until they’re let out.
• Travel Comfort: Crates make traveling with your Yorkie a breeze. They provide a familiar and secure space during car rides, vet visits, and even flights.
• Stress Reduction: For anxious Yorkies, a crate can serve as a calming space. It provides a sense of security and reduces separation anxiety.
• Independence and Confidence: Crate training encourages your Yorkie to be more independent by teaching them to entertain themselves. This can be particularly helpful for puppies.

However, it’s crucial to remember that crates should not be used as punishment. If your Yorkie is confined for too long or used as a timeout, it could associate the crate with negativity. Positive reinforcement is key to crate training success.

What Kind of Crate Should I Get for My Yorkie?

Choosing the right crate for your Yorkie is crucial. It should be the right size, safe, and comfortable. Here’s what to consider:

• Size: Your Yorkie should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate. Avoid a crate that’s too big, as it can encourage your Yorkie to urinate or defecate in one corner.
• Material: Metal crates are durable and easy to clean, while plastic crates are lightweight and portable. The best choice depends on your lifestyle and needs.
• Ventilation: Ensure the crate has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Look for crates with plenty of holes or mesh panels.
• Door: Choose a crate with a secure latch and a door that opens easily and smoothly.
• Consider Future Growth: While it’s important to get a crate that fits your Yorkie now, consider its future size. You might want to invest in a larger crate that will accommodate your Yorkie as it grows.

You can find a variety of crate options at pet stores, online retailers, and even second-hand shops. Be sure to inspect the crate for any damage before purchasing.

How Do I Introduce My Yorkie to the Crate?

The initial introduction to the crate is crucial for a positive experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Positive Association: Make the crate appealing by placing treats, toys, or a comfortable bed inside. Let your Yorkie explore it at their own pace, associating it with pleasant things.
2. Short Sessions: Initially, start with short sessions in the crate, gradually increasing the time. Don’t force your Yorkie inside; let them go in on their own.
3. Praise and Treats: Praise your Yorkie generously when they enter the crate and offer a treat. This helps them associate the crate with positive reinforcement.
4. Close the Door Gradually: Once your Yorkie is comfortable entering the crate, close the door for a few seconds at a time, then open it again. Gradually increase the duration of the closed door.
5. Never Force It: If your Yorkie shows resistance, don’t force them into the crate. Step back and try again later.

Patience is key during this introduction phase. Your Yorkie might be hesitant at first, but with consistent positive reinforcement, they will eventually learn to enjoy the crate.

How Long Can My Yorkie Stay in the Crate?

The duration your Yorkie can stay in the crate depends on their age, bladder control, and individual needs. Here’s a general guideline:

• Puppies: Puppies have smaller bladders and need more frequent bathroom breaks. As a rule of thumb, a puppy can stay in the crate for about one hour for each month of age (e.g., a 3-month-old puppy can stay in the crate for 3 hours). However, it’s essential to monitor them for signs they need to go potty.
• Adult Yorkies: Adult Yorkies can typically stay in the crate for 4-6 hours without needing to go potty. However, it’s always recommended to provide a bathroom break every 4-6 hours, especially if your Yorkie is prone to accidents.

It’s important to note that these are just guidelines. Every Yorkie is different, so observe your Yorkie’s behavior and adjust the crate time accordingly. If you notice any signs of distress, such as excessive barking, whining, or pacing, consider reducing the crate time. You should never leave your Yorkie in the crate for longer than 8 hours at a time.

How Do I Crate Train My Yorkie at Night?

Crate training at night can be a bit trickier, as your Yorkie might be anxious about being separated from you. Here are some tips:

• Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine to signal to your Yorkie that it’s time to sleep. This could include a walk, a quick play session, and a final potty break before crate time.
• Comforting Items: Place a cozy bed, a favorite blanket, or a chew toy in the crate to make it feel more inviting. Consider a warming pad for extra comfort, especially in colder climates.
• Quiet Environment: Choose a quiet spot for the crate, away from noisy appliances or areas with high traffic. This will help your Yorkie relax and sleep better.
• Ignore Whining: If your Yorkie whines in the crate, try to ignore it. If you give in and let them out, they will learn that whining gets them what they want. You can offer comforting words from a distance, but avoid picking them up.
• Gradually Increase Crate Time: Start with short periods in the crate at night, gradually increasing the duration. As your Yorkie gets used to it, they will become more comfortable sleeping in the crate.

How Do I Stop My Yorkie From Barking in the Crate?

Barking in the crate is a common issue, especially when your Yorkie is bored, anxious, or needs to go to the bathroom. Here are some ways to address it:

• Address the Underlying Cause: Identify the reason for the barking. If it’s boredom, provide enriching toys or activities. If it’s anxiety, try calming techniques like a pheromone diffuser or a comforting blanket. If they need to go to the bathroom, take them out immediately.
• Ignore the Barking: If your Yorkie barks for attention, try to ignore it. This will help them realize that barking doesn’t get them what they want. You can give them comforting words from a distance, but avoid responding to the barking.
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your Yorkie for being quiet in the crate. This will encourage them to stay quiet in the future.
• Crate Cover: A crate cover can block out distractions and create a sense of privacy, which can help reduce barking. However, ensure the cover has enough ventilation.

If the barking persists, consider consulting a professional dog trainer for additional guidance.

Can I Use the Crate for Potty Training?

Absolutely! Crates can be an invaluable tool for potty training your Yorkie. Here’s how:

1. Consistency: Take your Yorkie outside immediately upon waking up and after each meal or nap.
2. Praise and Reward: When your Yorkie eliminates outside, praise them enthusiastically and offer a treat. This helps them associate going potty outside with positive reinforcement.
3. Crate Time: Confine your Yorkie to the crate when you can’t supervise them. This prevents accidents and helps them learn to hold it until they can be taken outside.
4. Accidents Happen: If your Yorkie has an accident in the house, clean it up without making a fuss. It’s crucial to avoid punishing your Yorkie for accidents, as this can hinder their potty training progress.
5. Patience and Consistency: Potty training takes time and consistency. Be patient with your Yorkie, and they will eventually learn to go potty outside.

What if My Yorkie Doesn’t Like the Crate?

Not all Yorkies embrace crate training immediately. If your Yorkie is hesitant, be patient and persistent. Here are some tips:

• Gradual Introduction: Start with short sessions in the crate, gradually increasing the time. Avoid forcing your Yorkie inside; let them go in on their own.
• Positive Association: Make the crate appealing by placing treats, toys, or a comfortable bed inside. Let your Yorkie explore it at their own pace, associating it with pleasant things.
• Consult a Professional: If your Yorkie is extremely resistant to the crate, consider consulting a professional dog trainer. They can help you develop a personalized crate training plan that addresses your Yorkie’s specific needs and anxieties.

When Can I Stop Crate Training My Yorkie?

There’s no set time to stop crate training your Yorkie. Once they are reliably housebroken, comfortable in the crate, and don’t show any signs of anxiety when confined, you can gradually phase out the crate. However, it’s always a good idea to keep the crate available as a safe haven or for travel purposes.

Summary

FAQ

Is it cruel to crate train my Yorkie?

No, crate training is not cruel when done properly. Crates should be seen as a safe and comfortable space for your Yorkie. If you use the crate as a punishment or confine your Yorkie for too long, it can be detrimental to their well-being. However, when implemented with positive reinforcement and understanding, crate training can be a beneficial and stress-free experience for your Yorkie.