No good breeder would release a puppy at 5 1/2 weeks. Barring tragedy (you found the puppy and can't find the mother), the puppy needed to stay with his mother and sibs, because puppies learn a lot in weeks 5-8, about socialization with other dogs, in particular. In fact, most good breeders of tiny dogs don't release them for adoption until 12 weeks. I'm not saying all that to fuss at Furbutt, but it's important that potential Yorkie owners know it.
To address Furbutt's question: puppies are learning all the time. It's probably too early for potty training to be effective, because Yorkie's may not have the sphincter control to "hold it" until 16 weeks or so. But that doesn't mean you can't practice "potty management," putting the puppy where you want him to potty every time there's a trigger (eating, waking up, playing, or 60 minutes have passed since the last potty). That will create an association with the place (be it pee pad or outside) that the dog will use when he can.
And you can certainly teach "Uh-uh!" to interrupt unwanted behaviors, teach name, etc., etc. The most important thing you can teach is love - that you will love and protect him. He's older now - best of luck!! |