The Yorkie Terrier Mini: A Complete Guide to Care and Training

How do I choose the right Yorkie puppy?

Bringing home a Yorkie puppy is an exciting experience, but it’s essential to choose the right one for your lifestyle. With so many adorable Yorkies to choose from, how do you make the right selection? Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:

Temperament: Yorkies are known for their lively and playful personalities. Look for a puppy that is alert, curious, and eager to interact with you. Avoid puppies that seem overly shy or aggressive.

Physical Appearance: While cuteness is a factor, focus on a puppy with a healthy build. Their coat should be shiny and free from matting or bald patches. Check their eyes and ears for any signs of infection or discharge.

Breeder Reputation: Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. Research breeders in your area, check their credentials, and visit their facilities to see the conditions in which the puppies are raised.

Puppy’s History: Ask about the puppy’s parents. Are they healthy and temperamentally sound? A breeder should be able to provide you with information about the puppy’s lineage and medical records.

Socialization: Puppies need early socialization to develop well-rounded personalities. Look for breeders who socialize their puppies from a young age by exposing them to different sights, sounds, and people. A well-socialized puppy will adapt better to your home environment.

Health Guarantee: Reputable breeders often offer health guarantees to ensure that your puppy is free from genetic health issues. Inquire about the specific conditions covered by the guarantee.

Meet Multiple Puppies: Don’t rush into choosing the first Yorkie you see. Visit multiple litters and spend time with each puppy. Observe their interactions with their siblings and their responses to you. This will help you get a better sense of their individual personalities.

Go with Your Gut: Ultimately, the decision of which Yorkie puppy to choose is a personal one. Go with your gut feeling and choose the puppy you feel the strongest connection with.

Remember, a good breeder will be happy to answer your questions and provide ongoing support after you bring your puppy home.

How do I potty train a Yorkie puppy?

Potty training a Yorkie puppy can be a rewarding but sometimes challenging experience. Patience and consistency are key to success.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to potty train your Yorkie puppy:

Establish a Routine: Like humans, dogs thrive on routine. Take your puppy out to the designated potty area at regular intervals, typically every hour or two, especially after meals and naps.

Choose a Potty Spot: Select a designated potty spot in your yard or a specific area indoors. Consistency is crucial. It’s important to use the same spot consistently to avoid confusion for your puppy.

Positive Reinforcement: When your puppy eliminates in the designated area, reward them with praise, a treat, or a small toy. This reinforces the desired behavior. Avoid punishment if they have an accident.

Accidents Happen: If your puppy has an accident, clean it up without making a fuss. Don’t rub their nose in it, as this can actually make them fearful of going to the bathroom in your presence.

Crate Training (Optional): A crate can be helpful in potty training. If your puppy eliminates in the crate, take them out immediately to the designated potty spot and reward them for going outside.

Be Patient: Potty training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your puppy has setbacks. Be consistent with your routine, and with time, your Yorkie will learn to go to the bathroom on command.

Professional Help: If you are struggling to potty train your Yorkie, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or veterinarian. They can provide you with personalized tips and advice tailored to your puppy’s needs.

What are some common health issues in Yorkies?

While Yorkies are generally healthy dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. Here are some common health concerns:

Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar is a concern in Yorkie puppies, especially those that are small or underweight. Symptoms include weakness, lethargy, and seizures. Feed your puppy a high-quality diet and monitor their blood sugar levels closely.

Dental Issues: Yorkies are prone to dental problems like periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial.

Eye Problems: Yorkies can develop eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma. Regular eye exams are recommended.

Patellar Luxation: This condition involves the kneecap dislocating. It can cause lameness and pain.

Allergies: Yorkies are susceptible to allergies. Watch for signs like itching, scratching, and hair loss.

Skin Issues: Yorkies can experience skin issues like hot spots, skin infections, and alopecia.

Tracheal Collapse: This is a condition where the trachea weakens, leading to difficulty breathing.

Liver Shunt: This condition involves blood bypassing the liver, leading to health complications.

Regular Veterinary Care: To help prevent and early detect health issues, it is crucial to provide your Yorkie with regular veterinary care, including annual checkups and vaccinations.

Genetic Testing: Some breeders offer genetic testing to screen for certain health conditions. Inquire about genetic testing when choosing a puppy.

Early Intervention: If you notice any signs of illness, it’s important to contact your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can often improve outcomes.

How often should I groom my Yorkie?

Yorkies have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Here’s a grooming schedule:

Daily Brushing: Brushing your Yorkie’s coat daily is essential to remove loose hair, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils. Use a slicker brush, a pin brush, and a comb to reach all areas of the coat.

Weekly Baths: Bathe your Yorkie weekly using a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner. Avoid bathing too frequently, as it can dry out their skin.

Professional Grooming: Schedule professional grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks to trim their hair, clean their ears, and clip their nails.

Grooming Tips:

• Use a shedding blade to remove loose hair from their coat.
• Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
• Clean their ears weekly to prevent wax buildup and infection.
• Brush their teeth daily to prevent dental problems.

Remember, consistent grooming is crucial for maintaining your Yorkie’s health and appearance. It also helps strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion.

How do I train my Yorkie to walk on a leash?

Teaching your Yorkie to walk on a leash is essential for safety and enjoyment during walks. Here’s a guide:

Start Young: Begin leash training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Puppies are more receptive to learning new things at a younger age.

Choose the Right Leash and Collar: Select a comfortable and adjustable collar and a lightweight leash that is appropriate for your Yorkie’s size.

Introduce the Leash Gradually: Let your puppy explore the leash without attaching it to their collar. Allow them to sniff and play with it to become familiar with the feeling.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward your Yorkie with treats and praise when they walk calmly by your side. Avoid harsh corrections or pulling on the leash.

Practice in Short Sessions: Start with short walks in a quiet, controlled environment. Gradually increase the length and intensity of your walks as your Yorkie becomes more comfortable.

Address Pulling: If your Yorkie pulls on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to calm down. Once they settle, give them a treat and continue walking.

Be Patient: Leash training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your Yorkie makes mistakes. Keep practicing and rewarding their good behavior.

Seek Professional Help: If you are having difficulties with leash training, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer. They can provide you with personalized tips and techniques tailored to your Yorkie’s needs.

What are some common Yorkie behaviors?

Yorkies, while known for their sweet and affectionate nature, also exhibit distinct behaviors. Here are some:

Playfulness: Yorkies are naturally playful and enjoy games like fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek.

Barking: While some Yorkies are quiet, others are known for their barks. Excessive barking can be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or a need for attention.

Territoriality: Yorkies can be territorial and may bark at strangers or other dogs.

Stubbornness: Yorkies can be stubborn at times, especially during training. Patience and consistency are key to overcoming this trait.

Cuddly Nature: Yorkies are known for their cuddly nature. They often enjoy being close to their owners and seeking physical affection.

Alertness: Yorkies are very alert and aware of their surroundings. They can be good watchdogs, as they are quick to bark at anything unusual.

Understanding Yorkie behaviors helps owners to manage their dog’s temperament and provide appropriate training and socialization.

How do I socialize my Yorkie puppy?

Socialization is crucial for developing a well-adjusted and confident Yorkie. Expose your puppy to various sights, sounds, and people during their crucial socialization period (between 3 and 16 weeks).

Here are some socialization tips:

• Start Early: Begin socialization as early as possible, even before your puppy is fully vaccinated.
• Introduce to Other Dogs: Introduce your puppy to well-socialized dogs in controlled settings. This will help them learn appropriate canine social skills.
• Expose to People: Introduce your puppy to different people, including children, adults, and people of various ethnicities.
• Take to Public Places: Visit busy areas like parks, pet stores, and coffee shops (where dogs are allowed). Exposing them to different sights and sounds will help them become desensitized to distractions.
• Enroll in Puppy Classes: Puppy classes provide a structured environment for your puppy to learn social skills and basic obedience commands.

A well-socialized Yorkie will be more confident, outgoing, and adaptable to different situations. Socialization helps them grow into balanced and well-rounded companions.

What is the best diet for a Yorkie?

Providing your Yorkie with a nutritious diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Here are dietary guidelines:

High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a high-quality dog food specifically formulated for small breed dogs. Look for brands with real meat as the first ingredient, and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.

Food Amount: The amount of food your Yorkie needs depends on their age, activity level, and metabolism. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount for your dog.

Feeding Schedule: Feed your Yorkie two to three meals per day, depending on their age and energy levels.

Treats: Treats can be part of a balanced diet, but they should be given in moderation. Opt for low-calorie, healthy treats, and use them as rewards for good behavior.

Avoid Table Scraps: Table scraps can be harmful to your Yorkie. They can lead to digestive issues and weight gain.

Fresh Water: Ensure your Yorkie has access to fresh water at all times.

Monitor Weight: Regularly monitor your Yorkie’s weight to ensure they are maintaining a healthy weight. If your Yorkie gains or loses weight, adjust their food portion sizes accordingly.

A well-balanced diet contributes to your Yorkie’s overall health, energy levels, and lifespan.

What are some tips for training my Yorkie?

Training a Yorkie is essential for building a strong bond, teaching obedience, and creating a well-behaved companion. Here are some tips:

Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and toys, to reward desired behaviors. Avoid punishment or scolding, as this can lead to anxiety and fear.

Start Early: Begin training your Yorkie puppy as early as possible, ideally when they are 8 to 10 weeks old.

Short Training Sessions: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent.

Consistency: Be consistent with your commands and training methods.

Patience: Training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your Yorkie doesn’t learn a command right away.

Basic Commands: Teach your Yorkie basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. These commands are essential for safety and control.

Socialization: Socialization is an important part of training. Expose your Yorkie to various people, dogs, and environments to help them develop confidence and good manners.

Professional Help: If you are having difficulties training your Yorkie, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer. They can provide personalized tips and techniques tailored to your Yorkie’s needs.

What are some fun activities I can do with my Yorkie?

Yorkies are energetic and playful dogs that enjoy engaging in fun activities with their owners. Here are some ideas for fun activities:

• Play Fetch: Yorkies love to play fetch, especially in a small, enclosed area.
• Go for Walks: Walks provide exercise and mental stimulation. Choose a safe and leash-friendly trail.
• Play Tug-of-War: Tug-of-war is a great way to engage your Yorkie’s natural instincts. Use a safe and durable rope toy.
• Train for Agility: Agility courses provide a fun and challenging way to exercise your Yorkie’s physical and mental abilities.
• Attend Dog Parks: Dog parks offer a safe and social environment for your Yorkie to play with other dogs. Make sure your Yorkie is well-socialized before attending a dog park.
• Go on Car Rides: Yorkies often enjoy car rides. Make sure they are secured in a crate or harness for safety.

Remember, engaging in fun activities with your Yorkie strengthens your bond, provides exercise, and promotes their overall well-being.

How long does a Yorkie live?

Yorkies typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare.

To ensure your Yorkie lives a long and healthy life, it’s crucial to provide them with regular veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and plenty of exercise.

What are some interesting facts about Yorkie Terriers?

Yorkies are a fascinating breed with an intriguing history and unique characteristics. Here are some interesting facts:

• Origin: Yorkies originated in Scotland, where they were originally used to catch rats in textile mills.
• Miniature Breed: Yorkies are classified as a miniature breed, with adults typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds.
• Hypoallergenic: Yorkies are often considered hypoallergenic because they produce less dander than other breeds.
• Intelligent Breed: Yorkies are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. They are known for their ability to learn new commands and tricks.
• Royal Connections: Yorkies have a history of being owned by royalty. Queen Victoria was a well-known Yorkie lover.
• Loyal Companions: Yorkies are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They make wonderful companions and thrive on human interaction.

These interesting facts highlight the unique history and characteristics of Yorkies, making them a popular and beloved breed worldwide.

Summary

Topic	Information
Choosing a Yorkie Puppy	Consider temperament, physical appearance, breeder reputation, puppy’s history, socialization, health guarantee, and meet multiple puppies.
Potty Training	Establish a routine, choose a potty spot, use positive reinforcement, clean up accidents without punishment, and be patient.
Common Health Issues	Hypoglycemia, dental issues, eye problems, patellar luxation, allergies, skin issues, tracheal collapse, liver shunt.
Grooming	Brush daily, bathe weekly, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Leash Training	Start young, choose the right leash and collar, introduce gradually, use positive reinforcement, practice in short sessions, and be patient.
Common Yorkie Behaviors	Playfulness, barking, territoriality, stubbornness, cuddly nature, alertness.
Socialization	Expose to various sights, sounds, and people, introduce to other dogs, take to public places, enroll in puppy classes.
Diet	High-quality dog food, appropriate food amount, feeding schedule, moderate treats, avoid table scraps, fresh water, monitor weight.
Training	Positive reinforcement, start early, short sessions, consistency, patience, basic commands, socialization, professional help.
Fun Activities	Play fetch, go for walks, play tug-of-war, train for agility, attend dog parks, go on car rides.
Lifespan	Typically 12-15 years, but can vary.
Interesting Facts	Originated in Scotland, miniature breed, often hypoallergenic, intelligent breed, royal connections, loyal companions.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie Terriers:

How much does a Yorkie puppy cost?

The cost of a Yorkie puppy can vary significantly depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, and the location. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more for a Yorkie puppy.

Do Yorkies shed?

Yorkies are considered to be a low-shedding breed. They do have a coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting, but they generally don’t shed as much as other breeds.

Are Yorkies good with kids?

Yorkies can be good with kids, but it’s important to supervise interactions between them. Yorkies are small and delicate, so they can be easily injured by rough play. It’s essential to teach children how to handle and interact with dogs properly.

What are the pros and cons of owning a Yorkie?

Pros:
* Affectionate and loving companions
* Small size makes them suitable for apartment living
* Often hypoallergenic
* Intelligent and eager to please
* Relatively low-maintenance grooming

Cons:
* Can be prone to certain health issues
* Require regular grooming
* Can be barky
* Can be stubborn
* Can be prone to anxiety

How do I prevent my Yorkie from barking excessively?

Excessive barking can be caused by boredom, anxiety, or a need for attention. Consider providing your Yorkie with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and training. If the barking is excessive, consult with a professional dog trainer to determine the root cause and develop a behavior modification plan.

How do I choose a Yorkie breeder?

Look for a breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed, has a good reputation, and prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Avoid breeders who sell puppies from pet stores or online without proper screening. Visit the breeder’s facility and ask questions about their breeding practices, health testing, and puppy socialization.

Is it better to get a male or female Yorkie?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Male and female Yorkies have their own distinct personality traits. Male Yorkies tend to be more laid-back and affectionate, while female Yorkies can be more energetic and independent. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and lifestyle.