House Training a Yorkie
Introduction: Why Yorkie Potty Training Takes a Thoughtful Approach
Potty-training a Yorkshire Terrier is more than a chore; it’s a milestone you and your dog can celebrate together. Yorkies may have a stubborn streak when it comes to housebreaking, but with the right setup and a breed-smart approach, you can achieve success faster than you might think.
This guide covers every step: when to begin, how long it usually takes, the supplies that truly help, and ways to tailor the process to your home and lifestyle. So, whether you’re starting with a puppy, re-training an adult, or ironing out a few lingering issues, you’ll finish with a clear, confident plan and a routine you can stick to.
A little dedication, the right prep, and steady consistency are all it takes to house-train your Yorkie for good.
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When to Start House Training Your Yorkie
The best time to start potty training your Yorkie puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks of age. At this stage, puppies are alert, eager to learn, and ready to form lasting habits.
If you’re training outdoors, just be cautious about exposure. Young pups shouldn’t visit public spaces until they’ve had all their core vaccines (usually around 16 weeks). Until then, use a private yard or safe enclosed area.
And if your Yorkie is older, it’s still very possible. With clear guidance, many adult dogs learn even faster than puppies.
How Long It Takes to House Train a Yorkie
Most Yorkshire Terrier puppies start showing reliable potty habits within 2 to 4 months, though full consistency (where your pup goes without reminders) can take up to 6 months or more.
Adult Yorkies being re-trained often learn faster, especially with a clear routine and steady guidance. That’s because once they understand what’s expected, their bladder control and maturity work in your favor.
Progress depends on several things: your dog’s age, how consistent the routine is, and whether there are any disruptions like stress or illness. Mixed signals or skipped bathroom breaks can slow things down, but sticking to a structured plan will keep you on track.
The path to success is patience, observation, and keeping the routine steady. Even stubborn pups can master it with time.
8 Must-Haves Before You Start House Training Your Yorkie
Potty training goes smoother when you're prepared. The right setup and tools help your Yorkie catch on quickly and avoid setbacks. Don't worry about what to do; exact instructions are coming up. First, these are the things to have in place before starting.
#1 Pick One Potty Zone and Stick to It
Consistency is everything when house training a Yorkie. Whether you choose an outdoor spot, an indoor option, or both, your pup needs to understand: this is the bathroom and nowhere else. Options are:
- Outdoor setup: Choose an easy-to-access spot near a door. A covered area, like a porch with a small awning, makes rainy-day potty breaks more manageable.
- Indoor potty zone: Place it far from your Yorkie’s food, bed, and play areas. A grass patch or pee pad + tray setup like the Smart Paws Puppy Toilet Tray works well (note, this tray is meant to be paired with your chosen pee-pads). Clean this area daily, but avoid strong cleansers. Your Yorkie needs to smell just enough of their own scent to recognize it as their potty spot.
Tip: A hybrid plan (indoor use at night or during bad weather, outdoor during the day and/or nice weather) works in some cases, but only if you’re consistent. Don’t switch it up randomly, or your Yorkie may get confused.
#2 Use Irresistible Reward Treats
Yorkies learn best through positive reinforcement, so offering a high-value treat is an important part of your road to success. A well-timed reward tells your pup that going potty in the right spot leads to something amazing. To be effective, the treat should be extra tasty (something more exciting than their usual food), small so that it does not interfere with meals, and reserved only for house training. This keeps it special and highly motivating.
One that we highly recommend is Wellness Soft Puppy Bites; these are made in the USA with wholesome ingredients, can be broken into tiny pieces, and is flavorful enough to send a clear message of a job well-done. The lamb and salmon combo is ideal for offering something novel only given for rewards.
Tip: As training progresses, you can gradually phase out the treats, but a cheerful “Good potty!” will always be appreciated.
#3 Choose Your Cue Words
Yorkies, like all dogs, learn faster when they hear the same phrase paired with a specific action. Using a short, consistent cue every time you bring your pup to their potty area helps build that mental link.
The phrase should be simple, just a few syllables, and used by everyone in the household. Consistency matters. If one person says ‘go potty’ and another says ‘bathroom time’, it can confuse your dog and slow progress.
Some common phrases that work well include ‘go potty’, ‘potty time’, ‘pitty-potty’, ‘let’s go bathroom’, and ‘get busy’. Once you choose a cue, say it calmly each time your Yorkie arrives at their designated spot. In time, they’ll know exactly what it means and be more likely to go when asked.
#4 Have an Enzymatic Cleanser
Accidents are normal during house training, but using the wrong cleaner, like dish soap, can cause repeat problems. Even if a spot looks clean to you, your Yorkie may still smell the urine or feces, and return to that same place next time.
That’s why regular cleaners aren’t enough. They often leave behind invisible scent markers.
Enzymatic cleaners are different. They use natural enzymes to break down and remove all traces of waste at a microscopic level, so your dog no longer smells it as a bathroom spot. One that we like a lot is Rocco and Roxie Enzyme Cleaner Spray, it works on all types of floors and is safe for use around both pets and children.
Tip: Blot up the mess with paper towels, then fully saturate the area with enzymatic cleaner. Let it air dry on its own (no scrubbing or rinsing) so the enzymes have time to do their job.
#5 Use a Safe Containment Area When You Can’t Supervise
For times when you cannot be right near your puppy to keep an eye on them, use a containment method to keep them in one spot, to confine accidents. This can be a playpen or gated-off section of a room. Some owners use crates, though we don’t recommend them as such a small, cramped area can be claustrophobic and cause undue stress for Yorkshire Terriers.
A sturdy playpen like the Iris Puppy Playpen with a Door is a great fit for toy breeds. It keeps your Yorkie secure and comfortable, messes contained, and progress on track. Use it anytime you step out, take a shower, or get pulled away. And, of course, this is where your Yorkie can stay when you must be away from home. A great feature of this particular playpen is that as your Yorkie learns housebreaking rules and can do well with larger areas, you can expand the space by adding on panels.
Line the floor beneath this with pee pads. Add a comfy bed, a few toys, and access to food and water. Choose a spot that’s away from foot traffic but not isolated.
#6 Use a Harness and Leash for Indoor Supervision
For times that you are with your puppy, it's imperative to keep them very close to you. If not, one quick dash behind the sofa can undo a day’s progress. Clipping a lightweight, short leash to a well-fitted harness and keeping your pup within six to eight feet solves that problem. Tethered this way, you catch the circling or sniffing that signals your puppy must go potty, and your Yorkie learns that you’re always close and ready to guide them.
Always choose a harness, never a collar; Yorkies are prone to tracheal collapse, and any neck pressure can make it worse. A breathable mesh model like the Eco Bark Step In Harness is ideal for this breed. It starts at size xxx-small, so it will fit even teeny-tiny Yorkies, and is very easy to put on, via its snap buckle on the back. Pair this with a slim 6- to 8-foot leash which is long enough for comfort but short enough to prevent wandering.
Use this setup whenever your Yorkie is out of the playpen: while you cook, work at your desk, watch TV, or handle chores. Keeping your pup literally by your side prevents accidents before they start and turns supervision into bonding time.
#7 Create a Potty Schedule
Yorkies do best with routines. A consistent schedule not only helps prevent accidents; it also teaches bladder control and builds confidence. Take your Yorkie out:
- First thing in the morning
- After every nap
- About 15 to 20 minutes after meals
- Before and after walks (to reinforce the idea of the designated potty area in your yard or other chosen spot)
- 20-30 minutes before bedtime
- Every 2-3 hours for puppies (based on age; see below)
- Anytime they sniff, circle, or squat
Even if your Yorkie shows no signs of needing to go, stick to the routine; most accidents happen when owners assume their pup is fine.
Tip:
Puppies need more frequent breaks, especially under four months. A good rule is every 2 hours at 2 months old, every 3 hours at 3 months, and so on. Gradually increasing the time between potty breaks helps strengthen bladder muscles and leads to quicker long-term success.
#8 Always Keep Poop Bags Ready
During house training, and for all the years that follow, cleanup is part of the routine. Whether you're in your own yard or out for a walk, keeping bags on hand helps prevent buildup at home and keeps public spaces clean for everyone. You may wish to consider a fabric option, like the Bag Dispenser by SimpleTome, it's water-proof and zippered, and has a nice steel clip.
And if you're cutting back on plastic, you may want to consider using a compostable option like these Certified Home Compostable Dog Poop Bags. These are made from corn starch, edible glycerin, and other plant-based materials with zero plastic. They’re TUV Austria certified for home composting and meet top environmental standards. Even the box and roll core are made from recycled cardboard. Bonus: 10% of profits go to charity.
Tip: Keeping your yard clean helps reduce odors and flies. And when you're out on walks, picking up after your pup is simply part of being a good neighbor.
Quick Summary: What to Have in Place Before You Begin
Before starting house training, make sure you’ve got the right setup. These tools and systems will help prevent accidents, reinforce good habits, and make the process smoother for both you and your Yorkie:
- A clearly defined potty area; whether it’s outdoors, indoors, or both (just stay consistent)
- High-value training treats used only for bathroom rewards
- An enzymatic cleaner to fully remove accident odors
- A containment area for times when you can’t supervise
- A leash and harness to keep your pup close while indoors
- A daily schedule for meals and potty breaks
- Short, consistent cue words everyone will use
- Poop bags on hand for both yard cleanup and neighborhood walks
Now that you have what you need, let’s move forward with your housebreaking instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Housetrain a Yorkshire Terrier
Once everything is in place, it’s time to begin formal training.
This is the full step-by-step process to follow each time. Some parts may echo earlier tips, but this is your complete walkthrough, start to finish.
#1 Take your Yorkie out at all scheduled times & anytime they make a motion to pee or poo.
Whether tethered by leash or in a nearby space, you’ll need to catch early signs like squatting or leg-lifting. If you see this, clap sharply and say “Oh!”, just enough to interrupt. You’re not scolding the need, just redirecting the moment.
You will also bring your pup out at all designated times, as explained earlier in #7: Create a Potty Schedule.
#2 Move quickly to the designated potty area.
Thanks to your earlier prep, this part should be quick and smooth. Clip the leash to your Yorkie’s harness and head straight outside. A breathable vest-style harness can stay on during the day, with short breaks while your Yorkie rests in their playpen. If needed, carry your pup to prevent any accidents on the way.
Don’t forget your treat pouch; rewards need to happen instantly, so have these ready and by the exit door.
#3 Repeat your cue words as you go and during the potty attempt.
Say your chosen phrase as your pup heads toward the spot, and again while they’re in the act. The repetition helps create a link between the words and the behavior. Keep your tone calm and encouraging. This isn’t a command, but a cue your Yorkie will begin to associate with going potty. Over time, just saying the phrase can help prompt them to go, even in new environments or during travel.
#4 Keep your Yorkie focused in the potty area only.
Now isn’t the time for play or wandering. Use a fixed-length leash (or set a retractable one set to about six feet) and stay within the defined zone. Let your Yorkie sniff, circle, and get comfortable, but don’t allow roaming beyond the potty space.
#5 Wait patiently.
Puppies can take their time. Give your Yorkie a solid 10 to 15 minutes. Their body needs time to relax, especially in unfamiliar conditions or during early training. If you head back inside too soon, your pup might end up going just a few minutes later, on the carpet. Bring your phone, a book, or a seat to make the wait easier.
#6 Immediately reward success.
The moment your Yorkie finishes peeing or pooping, give a treat and verbal praise at the same time. Use a cheerful tone and pair “good” with your cue word, so they can make the connection. For example, “Good potty time!” This upbeat reinforcement helps your pup connect the dots and want to repeat the behavior.
#7 If you’re unsure whether your Yorkie is finished, wait it out.
Give the treat right after the first success, whether it’s pee or poop, but continue the session for the full 10 to 15 minutes. Many Yorkies need a little extra time to fully finish, and it’s common for them to pee twice, poop shortly after peeing, or vice versa. Ending the outing too quickly can lead to an accident right after you come back in. A little patience here helps avoid cleanup later.
House Training Summary: Bringing It All Together
By now, you have everything you need to set your Yorkie up for real success. You’ve created a safe, clear routine; you know what signs to watch for, what tools to use, and how to guide each potty session from start to finish.
Following this same routine every single time is what builds true understanding. With consistency, patience, and a structured setup, your Yorkie will begin to learn exactly what’s expected and feel proud of getting it right.
Even when progress feels slow or there’s a setback, stay the course. These early habits shape long-term results. These early habits shape long-term success, helping your Yorkie grow into a confident, well-trained companion.
Handling Accidents the Right Way
Even with the best routine, accidents are bound to happen, especially in the early stages. What matters most is how you respond in the moment and how you adjust afterward.
Never yell or punish.
If you catch your Yorkie in the act, a sharp clap or a firm “Oh!” is enough to interrupt them. Then, immediately take them to their designated potty area. Scolding after the fact doesn’t work—dogs don’t connect delayed punishment with something they did minutes ago. And negative reactions can actually increase anxiety, making training harder.
Clean thoroughly with an enzyme cleanser.
Even if you can’t smell it, your Yorkie can. Any lingering scent tells them it’s okay to go there again. Use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner as mentioned earlier in '#4: Have an Enzymatic Cleanser', to fully break down the proteins in urine or feces. Let it sit and air dry completely so it can do its job. Standard cleaners or sprays won’t be enough to prevent repeat mistakes.
Look for patterns.
Frequent accidents may mean your Yorkie needs more frequent breaks, a more structured routine, or closer supervision. If your pup was doing well and suddenly starts having setbacks, consider a vet visit. Urinary tract infections, digestive issues, or changes in diet can all affect house training success.
Nighttime Housebreaking Tips
Nighttime can feel like a setback for house training, but it’s just another part of building a consistent routine. The key is setting up your Yorkie for success, even while everyone’s asleep.
Containment overnight can help.
If your Yorkie sleeps in a playpen (which we recommend) or a crate (we don’t love these, but some pet parents do find they work), it helps keep any overnight accidents contained and manageable. You can line the floor with pee pads to make cleanup easier and protect the flooring beneath. Include a soft bed, a small water bowl, and a few favorite toys, but keep the area small enough to discourage wandering. This setup offers a safe, predictable space while your puppy is still learning nighttime bladder control.
Midnight potty breaks may be needed at first.
Young puppies often can’t make it through the night without a bathroom trip. Set an alarm based on age. For example, a 4-month-old might need a break about 4 hours in. As your Yorkie matures, you can gradually push the break later until they can sleep through the night. Most pups can go all night by 5 to 6 months old.
Use bedding that’s safe and easy to clean.
Opt for a washable mat sleeping pad or a doggie bed with a waterproof liner and a removable, machine-washable cover like the BedSure Doggie Bed for Small Dogs. Accidents are bound to happen early on, and having low-maintenance bedding makes cleanup quick and stress-free. Avoid plush beds with deep stuffing or non-washable fabrics, as they can trap odors and be harder to sanitize. Keep comfort in mind, but prioritize practicality during the training stage.
Tip: Night training is temporary. With patience and a quiet routine, your Yorkie will soon be sleeping through the night without issue.