Yorkie Poo Potty Training: A Comprehensive Guide for New Owners

Bringing home a Yorkie Poo puppy is an exciting moment, but it also comes with a whole new set of responsibilities. One of the most crucial things you’ll need to teach your puppy is potty training. The good news is that Yorkie Poos, with their intelligence and eagerness to please, are generally quick learners when it comes to housetraining. However, like with any puppy, patience and consistency are key to success.

This guide aims to address the most common questions new Yorkie Poo owners have about potty training. We’ll cover everything from setting up a successful potty training routine to addressing common problems and troubleshooting. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to help your Yorkie Poo master the art of going potty where it’s supposed to.

How Often Should I Take My Yorkie Poo Puppy Outside to Potty?

A consistent potty schedule is essential for success. Here’s a general guide for potty breaks based on your Yorkie Poo puppy’s age:

• Under 12 weeks: Every 2-3 hours, immediately after waking up, and after each meal.
• 12-16 weeks: Every 3-4 hours, immediately after waking up, and after each meal.
• Over 16 weeks: Every 4-5 hours, immediately after waking up, and after each meal.

It’s important to note that these are just guidelines, and individual puppies may need more or fewer potty breaks. Pay close attention to your puppy’s cues, such as restlessness, sniffing around, or whining, which indicate that they need to go outside.

Remember, the goal is to prevent accidents. It’s better to take your puppy out too often than not often enough. If you see your puppy start to have an accident inside, immediately interrupt them, bring them outside, and praise them when they go potty outside.

What Are the Best Potty Training Methods for a Yorkie Poo?

There are several effective potty training methods, but crate training and positive reinforcement are highly recommended for Yorkie Poos:

Crate Training:

Crate training can be a great way to help your Yorkie Poo learn to hold their bladder and bowels. The crate is a safe and comfortable space where your puppy can rest and relax. It also acts as a den, simulating the natural instincts of a dog to avoid soiling their sleeping space.

When crate training, make sure the crate is the right size for your puppy. It should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can potty in one corner and sleep in another.

• Start with short periods: Begin with short stays in the crate, gradually increasing the length of time as your puppy gets used to it.
• Positive association: Make the crate a positive place by rewarding your puppy with treats, praise, and toys when they enter the crate.
• Potty breaks: Take your puppy out to potty immediately before putting them in the crate and immediately after they come out.
• Never use the crate as punishment: If you use the crate as punishment, your puppy may develop negative associations with it and make potty training more difficult.

Positive Reinforcement:

Positive reinforcement is a key component of potty training. It involves rewarding your puppy for desired behaviors, such as going potty outside. This helps your puppy learn that going potty outside is a good thing.

• Treats: High-value treats are a great motivator for puppies.
• Praise: Verbal praise, such as “Good boy/girl!” or “Potty outside!” can be very rewarding for your puppy.
• Play: A quick game of fetch or tug-of-war can be a great reward.
• Consistency: Make sure you are consistent with your rewards.

Other Methods:

Other methods, such as bell training and paper training, can also be helpful. Bell training involves teaching your puppy to ring a bell when they need to go out. Paper training is a temporary solution that can be useful for puppies who are not yet fully house trained.

What Are Some Common Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid?

Many common mistakes can hinder your Yorkie Poo’s potty training progress. Here are a few to avoid:

• Inconsistency: Inconsistency is a major factor in potty training setbacks. Try to stick to a consistent routine and always take your puppy out to potty at the same times each day.
• Punishment: Punishing your puppy for accidents is not effective and can actually make potty training more difficult. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement.
• Not enough potty breaks: Taking your puppy out too infrequently can lead to accidents. Make sure you’re taking them out often enough.
• Not cleaning up accidents properly: It’s essential to clean up accidents thoroughly, using an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering scent.

How Can I Tell If My Yorkie Poo Is Fully Potty Trained?

There isn’t a hard and fast rule about when a Yorkie Poo is fully potty trained, as every dog is different. However, here are some signs that indicate your puppy is getting the hang of it:

• No accidents for several days in a row: This is a good indicator that your puppy is starting to grasp the concept.
• Promptly going potty outside: If your puppy goes potty outside immediately after you take them out, it’s a good sign.
• Responding to cues: If your puppy starts to whine, paw at the door, or sniff around when they need to go out, they are learning to communicate their needs.

Even if your puppy is mostly potty trained, it’s still important to be vigilant. Be sure to take them out regularly and monitor for any signs of accidents.

What Are Some Tips for Potty Training a Yorkie Poo Puppy in an Apartment?

Potty training in an apartment can be a challenge, but it’s definitely achievable. Here are some tips:

• Designate a potty area: Choose a specific spot in your apartment where you want your puppy to go potty, such as the balcony or a designated area near the door.
• Take them out frequently: Take your puppy out every two hours, especially after meals and naps.
• Use a potty pad: Potty pads can be a helpful tool for apartment training. Place a pad in the designated potty area and make sure your puppy knows where it is.
• Supervise your puppy: Keep a close eye on your puppy and don’t let them wander freely around your apartment.

How to Deal with Potty Training Accidents

Even with the best potty training plan, accidents happen. It’s important to react calmly and efficiently when they do.

• Clean up immediately: Use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate any lingering odor.
• Avoid scolding: Scolding your puppy can make them fearful and may actually make the problem worse.
• Take them outside: After cleaning up the accident, take your puppy outside to the designated potty area and let them finish going potty.
• Be patient: Accidents are part of the potty training process. Just stay consistent and your puppy will eventually get it.

What Are Some Signs That My Yorkie Poo May Have a Medical Issue Related to Potty Training?

If you notice your Yorkie Poo having more frequent accidents than usual, or if they’re straining to go potty, it’s important to rule out any potential medical issues. Here are a few signs that could indicate a problem:

• Straining or crying during urination or defecation: This could indicate a urinary tract infection, constipation, or other health issues.
• Increased thirst or urination: These could be signs of diabetes or kidney problems.
• Blood in the urine or feces: This is a serious symptom that should be addressed immediately by a veterinarian.
• Loss of appetite: This could be a sign of a variety of medical problems.
• Lethargy: A lack of energy or a general decline in activity levels could also indicate a medical issue.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can run tests to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How Can I Make Potty Training More Fun for My Yorkie Poo?

Potty training doesn’t have to be a chore for you or your puppy. Here are some tips for making it more fun:

• Use high-value treats: Choose treats that your puppy loves and will be excited about.
• Play games: Turn potty breaks into a fun game by playing fetch or tug-of-war after they go potty.
• Use praise: Be enthusiastic and positive when rewarding your puppy.
• Be patient: Remember that potty training takes time and consistency.

Remember, a happy puppy is a well-trained puppy! By using positive reinforcement and creating a fun and positive potty training experience, you’ll help your Yorkie Poo become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family.

What Are Some Other Things to Keep in Mind for Potty Training a Yorkie Poo?

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Consider a puppy playgroup: Socialization is important for puppies, and a puppy playgroup can help them learn from other puppies.
• Be consistent with your routine: Sticking to a predictable schedule will make potty training easier for your puppy.
• Don’t give up: Even if you have setbacks, don’t give up. Just keep practicing and be patient.

Conclusion

Potty training a Yorkie Poo puppy is a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can help your puppy learn the ropes and become a well-behaved member of your household. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive, and you’ll both enjoy the process.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about potty training a Yorkie Poo:

Q1. What if My Yorkie Poo Has an Accident in the Crate?

If your puppy has an accident in the crate, it’s important to remain calm. Clean up the accident thoroughly and investigate why it happened. Here are some possible reasons:

• Crate is too big: If the crate is too large, your puppy may be able to potty in one corner and sleep in another.
• Not enough potty breaks: You may not be taking your puppy out frequently enough.
• Medical issue: Your puppy may have a medical problem that’s causing the accidents.

If you suspect a medical issue, consult with your veterinarian. If the accidents continue, you may need to adjust your potty training schedule or consider a smaller crate.

Q2. How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Yorkie Poo?

The time it takes to potty train a Yorkie Poo varies depending on the puppy, their age, and your training methods. Generally, it takes about 4-6 months for a puppy to be fully house trained. However, some puppies may learn sooner, while others may take longer.

Remember, patience is key. Keep practicing and don’t get discouraged if your puppy has setbacks.

Q3. What If My Yorkie Poo Is Still Having Accidents After a Few Months?

If your Yorkie Poo is still having accidents after a few months, don’t despair. There are a few things you can do:

• Review your potty training plan: Make sure you are following a consistent routine and providing enough potty breaks.
• Consult with a professional trainer: A professional dog trainer can help you identify any issues with your training plan and offer guidance.
• Rule out medical issues: Have your puppy checked by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical problems.

Q4. Can I Use a Doggy Door for Potty Training?

Doggy doors can be helpful for potty training, but they are not a substitute for proper training.

If you choose to use a doggy door, make sure to properly train your puppy to use it. Start by teaching them to go through the door on command. You can also use a treat or praise to encourage them to go outside.

Q5. Is It Okay to Use Punishment During Potty Training?

No, punishment is not recommended for potty training. Punishing your puppy will only make them fearful and may actually make the problem worse.

Instead of punishment, focus on positive reinforcement. Reward your puppy when they go potty outside and ignore or redirect them when they have accidents.

Q6. Can I Use Potty Pads Forever?

Potty pads are a temporary solution and should not be used forever. If you use potty pads, your puppy may become confused about where to go potty and may not be able to learn to go outside.

It’s best to gradually transition your puppy to going potty outside once they are old enough and have the ability to hold their bladder and bowels for longer periods.

Q7. What If My Yorkie Poo Doesn’t Like to Go Outside in the Cold?

If your Yorkie Poo doesn’t like to go outside in the cold, you can try a few things:

• Make potty breaks short and sweet: Take them out for a quick trip and then bring them back inside.
• Use a doggy coat: A warm doggy coat can help keep your puppy comfortable.
• Choose a protected area: If you have a small yard or patio, try taking your puppy to a sheltered area where they won’t be exposed to the wind.

Summary

Potty training a Yorkie Poo puppy requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here’s a summary of the key takeaways from this guide:

Topic	Key Points
Potty Schedule	Take your puppy out every 2-3 hours, especially after waking up and after meals.
Potty Training Methods	Crate training and positive reinforcement are highly effective.
Common Mistakes	Avoid inconsistency, punishment, and not enough potty breaks.
Signs of Full Potty Training	No accidents for several days, promptly going potty outside, and responding to cues.
Apartment Potty Training	Designate a potty area, take your puppy out frequently, and use a potty pad.
Dealing with Accidents	Clean up immediately, avoid scolding, and take them outside.
Medical Issues	Consult a veterinarian if you notice signs such as straining, increased thirst, or blood in urine.
Making Potty Training Fun	Use high-value treats, play games, and be positive.