[cj125]

Originally Posted by Look4Good

Hi everyone,

I've been reading here and on other websites for the past few weeks. I've always wanted a Yorkie and, of course, I take any pet and the care and love required, very seriously. We currently have a 1 year old small yellow lab who is happy and smart. She is very good with small dogs who come by to visit but she could use a companion, I think. I work from home so leaving the dogs alone isn't an issue.

But I have to inquire whether housebreaking a Yorkie truly is more challenging than any other breed. Both of my dogs did take about 3 months until I was totally confident. I've used crate training too. But with a Yorkie is it really that much more difficult that any other dog? Is it necessary to use the pee pads inside? Are their systems really immature at 12 weeks when its time to go home with the new owner? Other than size, how would it be different from bringing home an 8 week old lab puppy?

My investigations now are in the hopes of bringing home a puppy during the summer.

Thanks for your help. Kathy

Hi Kathy - Welcome to YorkieTalk!
I had a blk Lab for 15 yrs and we now have two Yorkies. My opinion is that Yes Yorkies are harder to potty train. It took almost a year to fully train Mia & Max and we still use pee pads. But that's our choice, as they are home during the day and I don't want them to have to wait to go out. You have two entirely different breeds here. A medium sized working dog and a toy terrier. There are alot of differences like size, grooming, and temperment. I love both breeds but for different reasons. I can only suggest that you do what you're doing and that is - research Yorkies before you get one. I hope you decide to get one and that you fall in love with them just as you have your Labs. Hope to see your around and Good Luck!!