What Type of Training Should I Start My New Yorkie Puppy Out With?

Bringing a new Yorkie puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with cuddles and playful antics.

However, it’s also a critical period for establishing a training regimen that will set the stage for your puppy’s behavior in the future.

Training a Yorkie, or any puppy, requires patience, consistency, and understanding.

Here’s a guide to the types of training you should start with your new furry friend.

Basic Obedience Training

Obedience training is the cornerstone of any dog’s education. For Yorkie puppies, start with the basics:

Sit: This is often the first command taught and lays the groundwork for more complex commands.
Stay: Teaching your Yorkie to stay in one place is essential for their safety.
Come: A reliable recall can be a lifesaver in dangerous situations.
Down: This command is useful for promoting calm behavior.
Leave it: Yorkies are curious, and this command can prevent them from picking up something harmful.

House Training

Yorkies are known for being a bit challenging to house train, but with a consistent schedule and positive reinforcement, they can learn quickly.

Crate Training: A crate can be a safe space for your puppy and an invaluable tool for house training.
Potty Training: Establish a regular schedule and take your Yorkie to the same spot each time to encourage good habits.
Signal Training: Teach your puppy to signal when they need to go outside, either by barking or going to the door.

Socialization

Socialization is critical for Yorkies to ensure they are well-adjusted and confident. It should include exposure to:

Different people and children
Other dogs and animals
Various environments and sounds

Leash Training

Yorkies need to learn how to walk on a leash without pulling or becoming distracted. Start leash training in a quiet environment to minimize distractions.

Behavioral Training

Addressing behavioral issues early on is crucial. This includes:

Biting and Nipping: Teach your Yorkie that biting is not acceptable by redirecting their attention to toys.
Barking: Yorkies can be vocal; training them to understand the “quiet” command is important.

Training Schedule for a Yorkie Puppy

Here’s a simple table to help you organize your Yorkie’s training schedule:

Age Range	Training Focus
8-10 weeks	House training, Crate training, Basic commands like “sit” and “stay”
10-14 weeks	Leash training, Continued obedience, Introduction to “come” and “down”
14-18 weeks	Socialization, Behavioral training, Reinforcing commands

Conclusion

Training a Yorkie puppy requires a well-rounded approach that includes obedience, house training, socialization, leash training, and behavioral management. Starting these training areas early will help ensure your Yorkie grows into a well-behaved and happy adult dog.

Citations

American Kennel Club (AKC). (2021). Puppy Training Timeline for Your Yorkshire Terrier. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-training-timeline/
The Humane Society of the United States. (2021). Dog Training Tips. https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/dog-training-tips
PetMD. (2021). 5 Essential Commands You Can Teach Your Dog. https://www.petmd.com/dog/training/evr_dg_how-to-teach-your-dog-basic-commands

References

Yorkshire Terriers for Dummies: Barr, T. (2004). Yorkshire Terriers For Dummies. Wiley Publishing, Inc.
The Complete Guide to Yorkshire Terriers: Anderson, D. (2019). The Complete Guide to Yorkshire Terriers: Finding, Raising, Training, and Loving Your Yorkie. LP Media Inc.
The Yorkshire Terrier Handbook: D.V.M. Caroline Coile (2005). The Yorkshire Terrier Handbook. Barron’s Educational Series.