Home - Pet Training

What is the best way to potty train a Yorkie?

Yorkies are smart little dogs, but their tiny bladders mean potty training needs patience and a consistent routine—no random schedules here.
Share on X
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn

Yorkies are smart little dogs, but their tiny bladders mean potty training needs patience and a consistent routine—no random schedules here. Start by taking them out first thing in the morning, right after meals, and before bed; their bodies follow predictable rhythms, so matching your timing to theirs cuts down on accidents. Keep these trips short and focused—no long play sessions until they’ve done their business.

Many areas have rules about cleaning up after your dog in public, and that starts with training them to go in designated spots. Carry small poop bags (most pet stores sell compact ones that fit in a pocket) and a tiny spray bottle of enzymatic cleaner for indoor messes—this breaks down odors so they don’t revisit the same spot. Ignoring cleanup can lead to fines in busy neighborhoods, where sidewalks and parks are shared spaces.

Positive reinforcement works wonders with Yorkies—they love praise and tiny treats, like a piece of freeze-dried chicken. The second they finish going potty in the right place, say “good job!” in an excited tone and give them a treat. Never scold them for accidents; their sensitive nature means harsh words will only make them scared to go in front of you, slowing down training.

Crate training is a helpful tool, but it needs to be done right—your Yorkie’s crate should be just big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down. Leave the door open when you’re home so it feels like a safe space, not a punishment. This ties into animal welfare guidelines that discourage using crates as long-term confinement; they’re for training, not all-day stays.

Watch for subtle signs your Yorkie needs to go—pacing, sniffing the floor, or circling. These cues are easy to miss with their small size, but catching them means fewer accidents. If you’re busy, set a timer for every 2-3 hours to remind yourself to take them out; consistency beats perfection, especially with young puppies still learning control.

Potty training a Yorkie takes time, but the payoff is a happy, well-adjusted dog who fits into your daily life. Following local cleanup laws and using kind, consistent methods not only keeps your home clean but also helps your Yorkie feel secure. Before you know it, they’ll be letting you know when it’s time to go—no more stress, just smooth days with your tiny companion.

yorkiepottytraining yorkiepottycues yorkiecratetraining

Related Articles

Can I give my dog any human medicine for heatstroke Let’s set the scene: It’s a sweltering Phoenix afternoon—105°F outside—and you rushed your 2-year-old Lab mix, Cooper, on a quick walk to “get it over with.”
How do i train my dog to be obedient? Watching your dog dart across the park ignoring your calls isn’t just frustrating—it can put them at risk near busy streets or public spaces.
What kind of exercise is best for a dog to lose weight Let’s paint the picture: You’re in your Denver apartment, watching your 4-year-old Boston Terrier, Ruby, plop down mid-play session with her favorite toy
What is the fastest way for dogs to lose weight Let’s get real: You’re in your Miami apartment, watching your 3-year-old Corgi, Loki, struggle to climb the stairs to your second-floor unit.
Does walking shorten a dog's nails? Many dog owners notice their pets nails seem shorter after regular walks,but how much does this daily activity actually help?The answer depends on where you walk—concrete sidewalks or asphalt streets gently file nails as a dog's paws hit the ground
What do food allergies look like in dogs? Many dog owners brush off occasional scratching as just “dog behavior,” but persistent itching often signals something more—like a food allergy.
How to puppy pad train a puppy? New puppy owners often find themselves rushing to clean up accidents before they set in, and that’s where puppy pad training becomes a game-changer.
What happens if you don't express a dog's glands? Most dog owners notice their pup scooting across the carpet at some point, but few connect it to impacted anal glands. These small sacs near a dog’s rectum secrete a scent for marking territory
Can I help my dog lose weight if I feed it less If you've noticed your dog's waistline disappearing and your veterinarian has mentioned those few extra pounds, your first instinct might be to simply reduce the amount of food in their bowl.
What does a food allergy look like on my dog? You might first notice your dog scratching more than usual—chewing at their paws until the fur looks thin, or rubbing their face against the couch nonstop.