The Ultimate Guide to Housebreaking Yorkies in Apartments

Living in an apartment with a Yorkie can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is housebreaking, especially with a tiny dog in a confined space. Don’t worry, though! This guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to successfully housebreak your Yorkie and create a harmonious environment for both of you. We’ll cover everything from setting up a potty training routine to dealing with accidents and troubleshooting common issues.

We’ll explore ten frequently asked questions by Yorkie owners about housebreaking in apartments. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the answers, tips, and strategies you need to make housebreaking a success. Let’s delve into the details and embark on this journey together.

How Often Should I Take My Yorkie Out To Potty In An Apartment?

One of the most common questions from Yorkie owners in apartments is: How often should I take my Yorkie out to potty? The answer is: it depends on your dog’s age and habits. Here’s a general guideline for potty training a Yorkie puppy:

• Puppies under 12 weeks: Take your Yorkie out every 2-3 hours, especially after waking up, naps, and meals.
• Puppies 12 weeks to 6 months: Gradually increase the time between potty breaks, aiming for every 3-4 hours.
• Adult Yorkies: Once your Yorkie is fully housebroken, they can usually hold it for 6-8 hours, but it’s still recommended to take them out at least twice a day, morning and evening.

Remember, these are just general guidelines. Pay close attention to your Yorkie’s cues and adjust the frequency as needed. If you notice your puppy whining, pacing, or sniffing at the door, it’s likely they need to go out.

Consistency is key! Stick to a regular potty schedule to help your Yorkie learn the routine. Remember, accidents are part of the process, so stay patient and positive. With consistent training, your Yorkie will soon be potty trained and happy in your apartment.

What Are Some Housebreaking Tips For Yorkies In Apartments?

Housebreaking a Yorkie in an apartment can be a challenge, but it’s achievable with the right approach. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Establish a Consistent Potty Schedule: Take your Yorkie out on a regular basis, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Consistency helps them learn when to go potty.
• Choose a Designated Potty Spot: If you have a small balcony or yard, designate it as your Yorkie’s potty area. If not, choose a specific spot outdoors, such as a grassy patch or a sidewalk area.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: When your Yorkie goes potty in the designated area, reward them with praise, treats, and a small toy. Positive reinforcement helps them associate the behavior with a positive experience.
• Clean Up Accidents Immediately: If your Yorkie has an accident indoors, clean it up immediately with an enzymatic cleaner. This helps eliminate the odor and prevents your Yorkie from marking the same spot again.
• Avoid Punishment: Never punish your Yorkie for having an accident. This can create fear and anxiety, making the housebreaking process more challenging.
• Keep Your Yorkie’s Bladder and Bowel Health in Mind: If your Yorkie is having frequent accidents, consider if there might be an underlying medical issue. Consult your veterinarian for a checkup.

Remember, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are essential for successful housebreaking. Stay committed to the process, and you’ll see progress over time.

What If My Yorkie Has An Accident In My Apartment?

Accidents happen, even with the best of potty training. If your Yorkie has an accident in your apartment, don’t panic. The key is to clean it up quickly and calmly. Here’s how to handle an accident:

• Stay Calm: Avoid scolding your Yorkie or showing anger. This can cause anxiety and make the training process more difficult.
• Clean Up Immediately: Use an enzymatic cleaner, which breaks down the odor and urine molecules, preventing your Yorkie from marking the same spot again.
• Identify the Cause: Try to figure out why the accident happened. Was it because you missed a potty break? Did you change their food? Or was it a medical issue?
• Take Your Yorkie Out Immediately: Once you’ve cleaned the mess, take your Yorkie out to their designated potty area. This helps them associate the outdoor spot with relieving themselves.
• Avoid Punishment: Punishing your Yorkie for accidents can make them afraid of going potty in your presence and can negatively impact their training.

Remember, accidents are a part of potty training. Stay patient and focus on positive reinforcement, and you’ll eventually get through this phase.

How Can I Make Potty Training More Successful In My Apartment?

Apartment living presents unique challenges for housebreaking a Yorkie. Here are some strategies to make potty training more successful:

• Create a Designated Potty Area: If you have a balcony or a small outdoor space, designate it as your Yorkie’s potty spot. This helps them associate the area with relieving themselves.
• Use a Potty Pad: Potty pads can be helpful in apartments, especially for puppies or Yorkies who can’t hold it for long periods. Place them in a designated area and gradually move them closer to the door to encourage them to go outside.
• Take Your Yorkie Out Frequently: Make sure you’re taking your Yorkie out on a regular schedule, even if it’s just for a quick trip to the designated potty area.
• Be Patient and Consistent: Potty training takes time, so be patient and consistent with your routine. Stick to the schedule, praise your Yorkie for successes, and avoid punishment for accidents.
• Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling to housebreak your Yorkie, consider seeking help from a certified dog trainer or veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and support.

Remember, potty training can be challenging, but with patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you can successfully housebreak your Yorkie in your apartment. Your Yorkie will be a happier, healthier pet, and your apartment will be a more pleasant living space.

How Can I Prevent My Yorkie From Peeing On The Floor?

Yorkies, being small dogs, have smaller bladders and may need frequent potty breaks. Here are some tips to prevent your Yorkie from peeing on the floor in your apartment:

• Stick to a Regular Potty Schedule: Take your Yorkie out on a regular basis, even if they’ve just been out. A consistent schedule helps them learn when to go potty and reduces the chances of accidents.
• Use a Potty Pad: If your Yorkie needs a potty pad, use one in a designated area. This can help prevent accidents on the floor, especially if you’re unable to take them out as frequently as needed.
• Watch for Signs: Pay attention to your Yorkie’s behavior. If they start whining, sniffing at the floor, or pacing, it might be a sign that they need to go potty.
• Keep Your Yorkie’s Bladder and Bowel Health in Mind: If your Yorkie is peeing on the floor frequently, it could be a sign of a medical issue. Consult your veterinarian for a checkup.
• Be Patient: Accidents are a part of potty training, especially for puppies. Be patient and consistent with your training, and you’ll eventually see results.

Remember, your Yorkie may not be able to hold it for long periods, so make sure you’re taking them out frequently. Consistency is key to successful potty training and keeping your apartment clean and comfortable.

What If My Yorkie Has An Accident When I’m Not Home?

It’s a common concern for apartment-dwelling Yorkie owners: What if my Yorkie has an accident while I’m away? Here’s what you can do:

• Prepare Your Yorkie: Make sure your Yorkie has a designated potty area, whether it’s a balcony, a potty pad, or a specific spot in your apartment. This gives them a place to go if they need to relieve themselves.
• Limit Their Access: If you’re concerned about accidents, consider limiting your Yorkie’s access to certain areas of your apartment. You can use baby gates or crate training to keep them confined to a smaller area.
• Use a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: If you’re going to be out for an extended period, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter who can take your Yorkie out for potty breaks. This will help to prevent accidents and keep your Yorkie happy and healthy.
• Invest in a Pet Monitoring System: If you’re still worried about accidents, consider investing in a pet monitoring system. This can help you check in on your Yorkie and see if they’re having any accidents while you’re away.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Remember that your Yorkie isn’t intentionally trying to make a mess. Accidents can happen, and it’s important to be patient and understanding.

With a little preparation and planning, you can minimize the risk of accidents while you’re away. By being responsible and attentive to your Yorkie’s needs, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for both of you.

Can I Use A Crate To Help With Housebreaking My Yorkie In My Apartment?

Crate training can be a valuable tool for housebreaking a Yorkie in an apartment. Here’s how it works:

• Choose the Right Crate Size: The crate should be large enough for your Yorkie to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom.
• Introduce the Crate Gradually: Start by placing the crate in a quiet area of your apartment and leaving the door open. Encourage your Yorkie to enter the crate by placing treats and toys inside.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: When your Yorkie enters the crate, praise them and give them a treat. Avoid forcing them into the crate, as this can create fear and anxiety.
• Start with Short Periods: Begin by keeping your Yorkie in the crate for short periods, gradually increasing the time as they become comfortable.
• Take Your Yorkie Out Immediately After the Crate: Always take your Yorkie out to potty immediately after they come out of the crate. This reinforces the association between being out of the crate and going potty.
• Never Use the Crate as Punishment: The crate should be a safe and comfortable space for your Yorkie, not a place for punishment. Never put your Yorkie in the crate as a form of discipline.

Crate training can help prevent accidents, especially when you’re not home. It can also provide a sense of security and comfort for your Yorkie, especially in a new environment. When used correctly, crate training can be a beneficial tool in the housebreaking process.

Can I Use Potty Pads To Help With Housebreaking My Yorkie In My Apartment?

Potty pads can be a helpful tool for housebreaking a Yorkie in an apartment, especially for puppies or Yorkies who can’t hold it for long periods. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Choose the Right Potty Pad: Select potty pads that are absorbent and large enough for your Yorkie. Avoid using pads that are too small, as they may not be able to absorb all the urine.
• Place the Pads in a Designated Area: Designate a specific area in your apartment for the potty pads. This will help your Yorkie understand where they are supposed to go potty.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: When your Yorkie goes potty on the pad, praise them and give them a treat. This will help them associate the pads with positive experiences.
• Gradually Move the Pads: Once your Yorkie is consistently using the potty pads, gradually move them closer to the door. This will encourage them to go potty outside.
• Wean Them Off Potty Pads: As your Yorkie gets older and becomes more housebroken, you can gradually wean them off the potty pads. Start by removing one pad at a time, and monitor your Yorkie’s behavior carefully.

Remember, potty pads are a temporary solution. The goal is to eventually transition your Yorkie to going potty outdoors. With consistency and positive reinforcement, you can successfully use potty pads to aid in the housebreaking process.

Why Is My Yorkie Still Having Accidents Even Though I’m Taking Them Out Frequently?

It’s frustrating when your Yorkie is still having accidents even though you’re taking them out frequently. Here are some possible reasons and solutions:

• Medical Issues: Consider a veterinary checkup. Urinary tract infections, kidney problems, or other medical conditions can cause frequent urination and accidents.
• Dietary Changes: If you recently changed your Yorkie’s food, it could be affecting their digestion and causing more frequent urination. Consult your veterinarian about a suitable diet for your Yorkie.
• Lack of Consistency: Make sure you’re taking your Yorkie out on a regular schedule. Inconsistent potty breaks can lead to accidents.
• Anxiety or Stress: If your Yorkie is anxious or stressed, they may have accidents more frequently. Try to identify and address any potential stressors in their environment.
• Not Enough Time to Go Potty: Make sure you’re giving your Yorkie enough time to go potty. Some Yorkies need a little time to relax and find a comfortable spot before they can relieve themselves.

If you’re still having trouble housebreaking your Yorkie, consult with a certified dog trainer or veterinarian. They can help you identify any underlying issues and provide personalized advice and support. Remember, be patient and persistent, and you’ll eventually get through this phase.

How Long Does It Take To Housebreak A Yorkie In An Apartment?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it takes to housebreak a Yorkie in an apartment. It depends on various factors, including the Yorkie’s age, personality, and previous experiences.

• Puppies: Puppies typically take longer to housebreak, as they have smaller bladders and are still learning to control their bodily functions. They may take several weeks or months to become fully housebroken.
• Adult Yorkies: Adult Yorkies who have never been housebroken may take a bit longer than puppies, but they generally learn more quickly. They may become housebroken in a few weeks to a few months, depending on their individual personality and learning style.
• Yorkies with Previous Housebreaking Issues: Yorkies who have previously had accidents in the house may take longer to housebreak again, especially if they have developed negative associations with potty training.

The most important thing is to be patient and consistent with your training. With a little time and effort, you can successfully housebreak your Yorkie in your apartment. Keep in mind that accidents are a normal part of the process. Don’t give up, and celebrate every success along the way. Remember, a well-trained Yorkie will be a happy and healthy pet.

Summary Table

Question	Answer
How Often Should I Take My Yorkie Out To Potty In An Apartment?	Frequency depends on your dog’s age. Puppies under 12 weeks need potty breaks every 2-3 hours. Adult Yorkies can usually hold it for 6-8 hours, but it’s recommended to take them out twice daily.
What Are Some Housebreaking Tips For Yorkies In Apartments?	Establish a consistent potty schedule, choose a designated potty spot, use positive reinforcement, clean up accidents immediately, and avoid punishment.
What If My Yorkie Has An Accident In My Apartment?	Stay calm, clean up immediately, identify the cause, take your Yorkie out immediately, and avoid punishment.
How Can I Make Potty Training More Successful In My Apartment?	Create a designated potty area, use a potty pad, take your Yorkie out frequently, be patient and consistent, and seek professional help if needed.
How Can I Prevent My Yorkie From Peeing On The Floor?	Stick to a regular potty schedule, use a potty pad, watch for signs, keep your Yorkie’s bladder and bowel health in mind, and be patient.
What If My Yorkie Has An Accident When I’m Not Home?	Prepare your Yorkie, limit their access, use a dog walker or pet sitter, invest in a pet monitoring system, and be patient and understanding.
Can I Use A Crate To Help With Housebreaking My Yorkie In My Apartment?	Yes, crate training can be helpful. Choose the right crate size, introduce the crate gradually, use positive reinforcement, start with short periods, and never use the crate as punishment.
Can I Use Potty Pads To Help With Housebreaking My Yorkie In My Apartment?	Potty pads can be useful. Choose the right potty pads, place them in a designated area, use positive reinforcement, gradually move the pads, and wean them off potty pads over time.
Why Is My Yorkie Still Having Accidents Even Though I’m Taking Them Out Frequently?	Possible reasons include medical issues, dietary changes, lack of consistency, anxiety or stress, and not enough time to go potty. Consult a veterinarian or dog trainer if needed.
How Long Does It Take To Housebreak A Yorkie In An Apartment?	It depends on factors like age, personality, and previous experiences. Puppies may take longer, while adult Yorkies may learn more quickly. Be patient and consistent with your training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some additional frequently asked questions about housebreaking Yorkies in apartments:

What are the signs that my Yorkie needs to go potty?

Yorkies often show certain signs that they need to go potty. Look out for:

• Whining or barking: Your Yorkie may start whining or barking insistently, especially near the door.
• Pacing or circling: They might pace around restlessly, circling in one spot.
• Sniffing the floor: Your Yorkie may start sniffing at the floor, as if searching for a place to go potty.
• Squatting or lifting a leg: These are obvious signs that your Yorkie needs to relieve themselves.

If you see any of these signs, take your Yorkie outside immediately to their designated potty area.

What if my Yorkie isn’t interested in going potty outside?

If your Yorkie isn’t interested in going potty outside, there could be a few reasons:

• They’re afraid or anxious: Some Yorkies may be afraid of going potty outside, especially in new or unfamiliar environments.
• They’re not used to going potty outdoors: If your Yorkie has been using potty pads, they may not be accustomed to going outside.
• They’re not getting enough exercise: A lack of exercise can make it harder for your Yorkie to control their bladder.

Try to make the outdoor potty experience as positive as possible. Use treats and praise to encourage your Yorkie to go potty outside. Consider taking them out to a quiet and familiar spot where they feel comfortable. If you’re still having trouble, consult with a dog trainer or veterinarian.

Should I use a puppy playpen for housebreaking?

A puppy playpen can be helpful for housebreaking, especially for puppies. Here’s how it can work:

• Confines the puppy: It creates a safe and contained area for your Yorkie.
• Encourages potty training: You can place a potty pad in the playpen and teach your puppy to use it.
• Makes cleaning up accidents easier: The playpen allows you to keep your Yorkie in a confined area, which makes it easier to clean up any accidents.

However, using a playpen is only a temporary solution. You’ll need to gradually transition your Yorkie to going potty outside.

How can I make my apartment Yorkie-proof?

Here are some tips for Yorkie-proofing your apartment:

• Secure loose cords and wires: Yorkies are notorious for chewing cords, which can be a safety hazard.
• Keep cleaning supplies and medications out of reach: These items can be toxic to dogs.
• Store food and trash securely: Yorkies are opportunistic eaters and may try to scavenge for food in trash cans.
• Protect delicate furniture and belongings: Yorkies can scratch and chew on furniture and other belongings. Consider using furniture covers or placing them in a safe area.
• Be mindful of small objects: Keep small objects, such as coins, buttons, and beads, out of reach. Yorkies can easily swallow these, which can be dangerous.

How can I tell if my Yorkie is constipated?

Constipation can affect your Yorkie’s ability to go potty. Here are some signs of constipation:

• Straining to defecate: Your Yorkie may strain or push hard when trying to go potty.
• Small, hard stools: If your Yorkie’s poop is small and hard, it could be a sign of constipation.
• Loss of appetite: Your Yorkie may lose their appetite if they’re constipated.
• Vomiting: Severe constipation can cause vomiting.
• Lethargy: Your Yorkie may become lethargic or inactive.

If you suspect your Yorkie is constipated, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian.

How often should I feed my Yorkie?

The frequency of feeding a Yorkie depends on their age. Here’s a general guideline:

• Puppies under 4 months: Puppies need to be fed 4-6 times a day.
• Puppies 4-6 months: They can be fed 3-4 times a day.
• Adult Yorkies: Adult Yorkies can be fed once or twice a day.

It’s essential to feed your Yorkie a high-quality diet that’s appropriate for their age and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Yorkie.

What are some other ways to help my Yorkie with housebreaking?

In addition to the tips already mentioned, here are some other things you can do to help your Yorkie with housebreaking:

• Use positive reinforcement: Always praise your Yorkie and give them treats when they go potty outside. This helps them associate the behavior with a positive experience.
• Avoid punishment: Never punish your Yorkie for accidents. This can make them afraid of going potty in your presence and can negatively impact their training.
• Be consistent: Stick to a regular potty schedule and take your Yorkie out on a leash to their designated potty area.
• Clean up accidents immediately: Use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the odor and prevent your Yorkie from marking the same spot again.
• Consult with a professional: If you’re having trouble housebreaking your Yorkie, don’t hesitate to seek help from a certified dog trainer or veterinarian.