How To Take Care of a Yorkie Puppy

The Yorkie (Yorkshire terrier) traces it lineage to a number of terrier breeds, including the English Terrier. Used to control vermin in the late 1800s, today's Yorkie still enjoys chasing down rodents or running after rolled balls. Athletic, bright and personable, despite its tiny size of no more than nine inches in height as an adult and weighing in at seven pounds or less, the Yorkie makes a good companion pet for adults.

  1. Training

    • Spend extra time housetraining your Yorkie puppy. The "Howell Book of Dogs" advises that a Yorkshire terrier puppy may be difficult to potty train and recommends patience, persistence and constant supervision during the housebreaking process.

      Enroll your Yorkie in puppy kindergarten or obedience classes as soon as possible. Although this breed is intelligent, it also has a mind of its own and a streak of stubbornness. In addition to basic obedience commands, they enjoy learning little tricks and performing them in front of an audience.

      Socialize your puppy early to reduce his natural tendency to bark at other dogs or at strangers. Since he will never grow very large, a Yorkie's aggressive barking may attract the attention of larger dogs that may harm him.

    Grooming

    • Brush and comb a Yorkie puppy daily, especially after she finishes playing to keep her long coat from matting. Some owners prefer to have their Yorkshire Terriers' coat trimmed very short if they do not have the time or inclination to groom every day. When untrimmed, a Yorkie's coat will reach the floor on each side of his body; the fur is soft and silky but tangles easily.

    Exercise and Caution

    • Exercise a Yorkshire terrier daily to help him burn off excess energy. A couple of short walks and a session of rolling a small ball for him to chase each day will keep him happy and occupied.

      Teach children to interact carefully with a Yorkie and monitor play between a Yorkie and a larger dog to prevent injuries from being dropped, being held too tightly or being stepped upon.