Bringing home a Yorkshire Terrier puppy is a big step. A little prep—puppy-proofing, the right supplies, and a calm first-day routine—sets you and your puppy up for success. This guide walks you through what to do before pickup, on day one, and in the first few weeks.
Last updated: February 2026 · Reading time: ~9 min
Quick Answer
Before bringing your Yorkie puppy home: puppy-proof the house (cords, toxins, small objects, stairs), set up a crate and a quiet space, and have food, bowls, collar and harness, and puppy-appropriate treats ready. On the first day: keep things calm, show them their crate and potty area, stick to the breeder’s food at first, and start a potty schedule right away. Get a vet visit within the first week for a checkup and vaccine plan. Source your puppy from a reputable breeder who health-tests and socializes.
Pre-Arrival Checklist
| Area | Action |
|---|---|
| Safety | Hide cords, lock cabinets with chemicals, remove toxic plants and small choke hazards; use baby gates if needed. |
| Space | Set up a crate and a quiet “home base” with bed, water, and a couple of toys. |
| Supplies | Food (ask breeder what they use), bowls, collar/harness, leash, puppy treats, chew toys, pee pads if using. |
| Vet | Book a first wellness visit within a few days of coming home. |
| Household | Agree on rules (no table scraps, where the dog is allowed, who handles potty breaks). |
Why Choose a Yorkshire Terrier?
Yorkies are small (usually under 7 lb), adaptable to apartments or houses, and form strong bonds with their people. They’re intelligent and trainable but need consistent housetraining and barking management. Their coat requires regular brushing and periodic grooming. If you’re ready for that commitment, they make devoted, long-lived companions.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Yorkie puppies are curious and will chew and explore. Secure electrical cords and keep them out of reach. Use childproof latches on cabinets that hold cleaning products, meds, or food. Remove or fence off toxic plants and pick up small items (buttons, rubber bands, coins) that could be swallowed. Use baby gates to block stairs or off-limits rooms until the puppy is steady and trained.
Essential Supplies
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Crate | Safe sleeping space and housetraining aid; size for a small adult Yorkie. |
| Food & bowls | Start with the breeder’s food; switch gradually if you change. Use shallow, easy-to-clean bowls. |
| Collar, harness, leash | Harness is safer for small dogs; best harness options. |
| Puppy treats | For training and rewards; puppy-safe treats. |
| Chew toys | Redirect chewing from furniture and cords. |
| Pee pads (optional) | Useful for apartment or bad-weather potty training. |
| Brush | Get them used to brushing early; prevents mats. |
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First Day Home
Keep the environment calm. No big parties or loud noises. Show the puppy their crate (door open) and their water and bed. Let them explore a small, safe area under supervision. Offer the same food the breeder used; sudden diet changes cause upset stomachs. Take them to the chosen potty spot after eating, waking, and playing—use a cue word like “potty” and reward when they go. Don’t overwhelm them with too many rooms or people on day one.
First Day Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use the same food as the breeder | Change food suddenly |
| Take them out often for potty | Punish accidents; clean and adjust schedule instead |
| Give quiet time in the crate | Force long crate sessions before they’re comfortable |
| Use treats and praise for calm behavior | Allow rough play or overexcitement from kids |
Feeding Your Yorkie Puppy
Feed a quality puppy formula for small breeds (AAFCO statement for growth). Typical schedule: 4 meals from 2–3 months, 3–4 by 6 months, then 3 meals a day. Use measured portions; your vet can suggest daily calories based on weight and growth. Treats should be small and limited (e.g. under 10% of daily calories); use puppy treats for training. Always have fresh water available.
Health and First Vet Visit
Book a wellness exam within the first few days. The vet will check for parasites, discuss vaccines and deworming, and set a schedule. Yorkie puppies can be prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)—feed on a regular schedule and don’t skip meals. Watch for lethargy, trembling, or collapse; seek vet care if you see these. Plan for spay/neuter when your vet recommends (often around 4–6 months). Start nail trimming and ear cleaning gently so they get used to handling.
Training and Socialization
Start potty training from day one: same spot, same cue, rewards for going outside. Keep sessions short and positive. Introduce basic cues (sit, come) with training treats. Socialization is critical between about 3–14 weeks: expose the puppy to different people, surfaces, sounds, and (vaccinated) dogs in a positive way. Avoid overwhelming or scary experiences. A trainer can help with structure and troubleshooting.
Grooming Basics
Brush the coat regularly so the puppy gets used to it and to prevent mats. You can use a detangler if the coat is long. Nail trims and ear cleaning should be introduced gently and early. Many owners keep the coat in a short “puppy cut” for easier care; a groomer can help with that and with nail trims if you prefer.
When to Call the Vet
Seek vet care if your puppy: won’t eat or drink, is very lethargic, has repeated vomiting or diarrhea, trembles or collapses (possible hypoglycemia), has trouble breathing, or shows signs of pain. For minor questions (mild soft stool, feeding amounts), a call to the clinic can clarify.
Finding a responsible breeder who health-tests parents and socializes puppies gives your Yorkie the best start. Then focus on consistency, patience, and a calm first week—you’ll build a strong foundation for a happy, well-adjusted dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I feed my new Yorkie puppy?
Stick with the food the breeder used for at least the first week, then switch gradually over 7–10 days if you change. Use a small-breed puppy formula that meets AAFCO growth standards. Ask your vet for portion sizes.
How often should my Yorkie puppy go outside to potty?
Very young puppies need to go out after waking, eating, playing, and about every 1–2 hours. Take them to the same spot and use a cue word. Reward immediately when they eliminate outside.
When can my Yorkie puppy meet other dogs?
After the vet confirms vaccination status, introduce your puppy to calm, vaccinated dogs in controlled settings. Keep early encounters short and positive to build confidence.
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