Bringing a Yorkie puppy home is an exciting milestone, but because of their tiny size and “big dog” personality, it requires some specific preparation. Since Yorkies can be fragile as puppies, the goal is to create a safe, warm and low-stress environment from day one.
Preparing your home: the Yorkie-proofing phase
Before your puppy arrives, you need to view your home from six inches off the ground. Yorkies are notorious for finding the smallest gaps to crawl into.
- Block small gaps. Check behind appliances, under recliners and beneath cabinets. If a head can fit, the body can follow.
- Secure electrical cords. Yorkie puppies love to chew. Use cord protectors or hide wires behind furniture to prevent electric shocks.
- Check your fencing. If you have a yard, make sure they cannot squeeze under the gate or through picket slats. Yorkies are small enough to be snatched by birds of prey, so never leave them outside unattended.
- Designate a safe zone. Use a playpen or a small gated area — a kitchen with easy-to-clean floors is ideal — where the puppy can stay when you are not supervising. This helps with potty training and prevents accidents on your rugs.
The drive home checklist
The first car ride sets the tone for future travel. Yorkies are prone to motion sickness and can be nervous.
- Small travel crate. Safety first — never hold a puppy in your lap while driving.
- Soft blankets. Line the crate for comfort and to keep them warm.
- Paper towels and wipes. In case of car sickness or a mid-drive accident.
- Small harness and leash. For safe potty breaks at rest stops — keep them away from other dogs’ waste.
- A littermate scent toy. A cloth that smells like their littermates will soothe them.
Essential at-home supply checklist
Yorkies have specific needs due to their coat type and small stature.
1. Comfort and sleeping
- Small bolster bed. Yorkies love to burrow and feel snug.
- Heating pad (optional). Tiny puppies struggle to regulate body temperature; a pet-safe heating disk can help them stay warm at night.
2. Feeding and nutrition
- High-quality puppy kibble specifically formulated for small breeds.
- Shallow bowls. Ceramic or stainless steel are best to prevent puppy acne and are easier for their short muzzles to reach.
- Nutri-Cal or Karo syrup. Critical for Yorkies. They are prone to hypoglycemia — low blood sugar. A small dab can be a lifesaver if they become lethargic. More on hypoglycemia.
3. Grooming and hygiene
- Slicker brush and metal comb. Yorkie hair tangles easily — start brushing daily to get them used to it.
- Tear stain remover to keep the area around their eyes clean.
- Puppy pads. Even if you plan to train outdoors, Yorkies have tiny bladders and may need an indoor option during the night.
A note on the first 24 hours
Your Yorkie will likely be overwhelmed. Keep visitors to a minimum and let the puppy sniff around their designated safe zone. Offer food every few hours to keep their energy levels stable. If they seem sleepy, let them rest — growing is hard work for a two-pound dog.