How to Housebreak Yorkshire Terriers

Many challenges face the owner of a new Yorkshire terrier puppy. One of the biggest concerns may be how to housebreak your new dog, as Yorkshire terriers can be difficult to toilet train. Consider that the smaller the puppy is, the smaller the bladder is, so you must be even more vigilant with your training. Some of the key factors in successfully housebreaking your dog are consistency, patience and reward.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put your Yorkshire terrier in a crate when you are out of the house or otherwise unable to supervise your dog. The crate should be about 4 inches longer than your dog. Fill the crate with blankets or a small foam dog bed to make it comfortable for your Yorkshire terrier. Your dog will see this as a den and will not want to soil the area.

    • 2

      Watch your puppy carefully and recognize the signs that he needs to go to the bathroom. These signs will differ according to individual dogs, but typical gestures are whimpering, circling, sniffing the floor and walking backward.

    • 3

      Take your Yorkshire terrier outside on a leash as soon as you notice any of these signs. Even if you don't see any signs, take your dog out every 30 to 45 minutes and after he eats, drinks, sleeps or plays.

    • 4

      Designate an outdoor spot where your Yorkshire terrier should be relieving himself, and keep the dog on the leash in this area until he is done. Picking an area helps your puppy associate this space with going to the bathroom, making it more likely he will go as soon as you bring him to the spot.

    • 5

      Command your Yorkshire terrier to relieve himself. Decide on a word or phrase, such as "go potty" or "make." Say this to the dog when he starts to go. Soon enough, your puppy will associate the word with the act of going to the bathroom and should go when you use the command.

    • 6

      Reward your puppy for going to the bathroom. You can do this verbally, by petting her or by giving treats. Your dog will be happy to please you, which will make housebreaking your Yorkshire terrier go faster.