Bringing a Yorkie puppy into your home is an exciting journey filled with cuddles and playtime. However, it’s important to ensure that your new pup has all the essentials to get off to a great start.
Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed known for their affectionate nature and unique human hair-like coats. They are a breed that presents some unique challenges so there will be some unqiue items you’ll want to pick up before their arrival.
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Table of Contents
The list of essentials for a Yorkie pup includes various items that cover all aspects of its care, from feeding to grooming.
Quality puppy food formulated for small breeds, a cozy bed, and appropriately sized toys are the foundation of Yorkie care.
Considering their energetic disposition, items that help with exercise and engagement are crucial for a Yorkie’s development and well-being.
Since Yorkies also need regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, investing in the right grooming tools can prevent matting and maintain their iconic appearance.
Owners should remember that these dogs sometimes need extra warmth due to their small size, so clothing and blankets should be on the supply list too.
Tailoring your Yorkie puppy’s supplies to their unique requirements will ensure they feel safe and loved in their new environment.
Initial Preparation
Preparing for a Yorkie puppy involves gathering the right supplies to ensure their safety and comfort. The following essentials will set the stage for your pup’s new home.
Choosing the Right Crate
For those who prefer to crate train, a well-ventilated crate is essential. It should be spacious enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Recommended Crate Size: 24″L x 18″W x 19″H
- Ventilation: Wire mesh for airflow
- Safety Tip: Ensure there are no sharp edges
Selecting a Comfortable Bed
A soft, plush bed will provide a Yorkie puppy with a cozy spot to rest. Look for a bed that fits within the chosen crate or designated sleeping area.
- Materials: Fleece or soft cotton
- Maintenance: Machine washable
- Extras: A blanket for additional warmth and comfort
Essential Grooming Supplies
Grooming is vital for Yorkie puppies, who are known for their luxurious coats. Gather the following supplies to maintain their appearance and hygiene.
- Brush: A high-quality brush for daily grooming
- Shampoo: Gentle puppy-formula shampoo
- Grooming frequency: Regular brushing, bathing as needed
Keep in mind that grooming is both for cleanliness and bonding with your pup.
Feeding Essentials
Choosing the right feeding accessories and nutrition for a Yorkie puppy is crucial to their health and happiness. Optimal feeding essentials help puppies grow strong and healthy.
Food and Water Bowls
It’s important to select the correct food and water bowls for Yorkie puppies.
Bowls made of stainless steel are preferred as they are durable, easy to clean, and less likely to harbor bacteria.
Alternatively, ceramic bowls can be used, provided they are coated to prevent the absorption of bacteria and odors. Puppies should have constant access to a water bowl to ensure hydration.
If you’re feeling a little boujee like us, then you can get your Yorkie a freaking water fountain.
Quality Puppy Food
A Yorkie puppy’s diet should be rich in vital nutrients to support their growth.
When choosing puppy food, look for options that cater to small breeds and provide a balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their high energy demands.
Puppies usually start with 4 meals a day, following a consistent feeding schedule that transitions to fewer meals as they grow older.
Our Recommended Puppy Food for Yorkies
We have tried many different dog foods over the years and the one we have had the most success with is Hills Science Diet Dog Food. This is what works for us, but should not be taken as official advise. Speak with your vet to figure out the best puppy or dog food for you.
Healthy Treats
Healthy treats are great for training and rewarding your Yorkie puppy.
Treats should be given in moderation and must be appropriate for their size to avoid choking hazards.
These treats should complement the puppy’s nutrition without causing an imbalance in their diet.
Always choose treats designed specifically for puppies, as they contain ingredients beneficial for their development.
Our Recommended Healthy Treats for Yorkies
We have tried many different treats over the years with our Yorkies and there is one brand that stands out for us: Full Moon. Here are the Full Moon treats our dogs love:
The bites and sticks are essentially the same, just in different shapes, so why do we recommend both? Well, for some reason Peaches likes sticks and Mila likes bites.
Leash and Walking Gear
When gearing up for walks, remember safety is paramount. Choosing the right walking gear ensures your Yorkie has a comfortable and secure stroll.
Collars and ID Tags
- Collar: While they hold ID tags, collars are not recommended for attaching a leash.
- ID Tags: Always have current contact information on your Yorkie’s tag.
Harnesses and Leashes
- Harness: Safeguards against neck injury—opt for an adjustable, snug-fitting harness to attach the leash.
- Leash: Use a non-retractable leash for maximum control during walks.
Poop Bags and Accessories
- Poop Bags: Essential for responsible pet ownership; bring extras on walks.
- Accessories: Consider a bag dispenser that clips to the harness.
Training and Comfort
Training a Yorkie puppy requires consistency, patience, and the right supplies to create a comfortable environment that promotes learning.
Puppy Playpen
A puppy playpen provides a confined space where the young Yorkie can play and rest safely, reducing the risk of accidents around the house.
Choosing a playpen with ample space is key to ensure they can move around, exercise, and have a designated potty area. Puppy gates can also be integrated to section off areas within the home.
Toys for Mental Stimulation
Yorkie puppies need toys that challenge their minds and provide appropriate exercise.
Balls, rope toys, and interactive puzzles help keep them engaged.
During the teething phase, chew toys are vital for relief and to prevent the puppy from gnawing on inappropriate objects.
Always select toys that are size-appropriate to avoid any potential choking hazards.
Potty Training Supplies
Consistent potty training is crucial for any puppy. Essentials include:
- Absorbent Potty Pads: Great for indoor training, especially in a playpen.
- Enzymatic Cleaner: To clean accidents and remove odors.
The use of positive reinforcement when they successfully use their potty area aids in quicker learning, while comfort items like plush toys can be given after a successful potty attempt as a reward.
Travel and Safety
When traveling with a Yorkie puppy, ensuring their safety is paramount. A secure car seat and a portable carrier are essential supplies for car trips, both short and long.
Secure Car Seats
For road trips, a secure car seat specifically designed for small dogs is vital.
They should ideally be crash-test certified and enable the puppy to see out of the window while being safely restrained.
Look for seats with sturdy straps that attach to the vehicle’s seatbelt system. A car seat that doubles as a carrier can be extremely useful.
- Features to consider:
- Adjustable safety leash
- Padded interiors for comfort
- Washable liner
- Suitable size
Our Recommendation for Best Yorkie Car Seat
We like this car seat because it’s very secure and we can fit both of our Yorkies in it. My wife sits in the back with them to make sure they stay in, turning me into a professional Yorkie chauffeur.
Click here to get it on Amazon.
Portable Carriers and Kennels
For trips where a car seat isn’t practical, a portable travel carrier is essential. They provide a safe and familiar space for the Yorkie to retreat to. Here are points one should keep in mind:
- Materials: Choose carriers made from durable, high-quality materials that can withstand travel rigors.
- Ventilation: Adequate mesh panels should be present for ventilation.
- Size: Ensure the carrier is spacious enough for the Yorkie to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably.
- Safety Features: It should have secure zippers and possibly a locking mechanism.
Carriers and kennels should be labeled with contact information in case of separation.
Checking with airlines for carrier specifications is important if flying.
It’s also prudent to consider pet insurance to cover any unexpected events while traveling.
Miscellaneous Items
When it comes to outfitting a Yorkshire terrier puppy with the essentials, there are additional items beyond the basics that can enhance their comfort and well-being.
Puppy Clothing Options
Yorkie puppies, known for being small dogs, can benefit from clothing to keep them warm and stylish.
- Sweaters and Coats: Look for soft, comfortable materials like cotton or fleece, ensuring that they are machine washable for easy cleanup.
- Durability is key, so high-quality stitching is a must.
- Examples: Hooded sweaters, quilted coats
- Booties: Protect their tiny paws with booties that are both durable and supportive, ideally with non-slip soles for safety.
- Material: Water-resistant fabric, elastic straps
- Puppia Harnesses: These are specially designed for small breeds, offering a secure fit without putting undue pressure on their delicate bodies.
- Attributes: Adjustable, soft-edged
Specialized Puppy Products
Beyond clothing, there are specialized products to consider for a Yorkie puppy’s unique needs.
- Stairs and Ramps: To prevent injuries and provide easy access to furniture, opt for stairs or ramps that are sturdy and have a gentle incline.
- They should be lightweight yet strong, and covered with traction material.
- Grooming Supplies: Yorkshire terriers require regular grooming, so investing in quality grooming supplies is necessary.
- You will need brushes, combs, dog shampoo, and nail clippers.
- Beds: A comfortable, washable dog bed is essential. Memory foam can offer extra support for their petite frames.
- Look for a bed with a plush top, non-slip base, and a removable cover.