Getting a new Yorkie puppy is an exciting time, but it’s important to make sure you have everything you need to welcome your new furry family member home. Here’s a comprehensive puppy checklist to help you prepare:

Food and Water Supplies:

• High-quality puppy food
• Food and water bowls
• Treat jar
• Slow-feed bowl (to prevent overeating)

Sleeping and Relaxation:

• Cozy dog bed
• Plush toys
• Chew toys
• Puzzle feeders

Grooming and Hygiene:

• Slicker brush
• Nail clippers
• Ear cleaner
• Shampoo
• Tooth brush and dog-safe toothpaste

Training and Enrichment:

• Crate with soft bedding
• Pee pads or litter box
• Leash and harness
• Clicker for training
• Puzzle toys and interactive feeders

Puppy-Proofing Essentials:

• Baby gates
• Cord covers
• Puppy-safe household cleaners
• Trash can with secure lid

Health and Safety:

• Puppy vitamins/supplements
• Pet first aid kit
• Contact info for local vet
• ID tag with your contact info

Remember, getting a new puppy is a big responsibility, but with proper preparation you’ll be ready to provide your Yorkie with a safe, comfortable, and enriching home. 

Food and Nutrition:
Choosing the right puppy food is crucial for supporting your Yorkie’s growth and development. Look for a high-quality, nutrient-dense formula specifically formulated for small breed puppies. Avoid free-feeding and instead stick to scheduled mealtimes to prevent hypoglycemia. You’ll also want to have small, frequent meals on hand for those times when your pup needs a blood sugar boost.

Sleeping and Relaxation:
Yorkies are very social and bond closely with their owners, so you’ll want to make sure your pup has a cozy, designated sleeping space, like a plush dog bed in a quiet area of your home. Providing plenty of chew toys and puzzle feeders will also help keep them entertained and mentally stimulated when you’re not around.

Grooming Essentials:
Maintaining your Yorkie’s long, silky coat is a must. In addition to a high-quality slicker brush, you’ll need nail clippers, ear cleaner, and dog-safe shampoo. Regular grooming will keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. You may also want to invest in a professional grooming appointment every 4-6 weeks.

Training Prep:
Housetraining and basic obedience training are essential for any new puppy. In addition to the essentials like a crate, leash, and clicker, you may want to stock up on high-value training treats. Puzzle toys and enrichment activities can also make training sessions more engaging.

Puppy-Proofing:
Just like with a human baby, you’ll need to thoroughly puppy-proof your home to keep your new Yorkie safe. Install baby gates, cover exposed cords, and use puppy-safe cleaning products. You may also want to designate a “puppy-proof” room or area where you can safely confine them when unsupervised.

Health and Wellness:
In addition to scheduling your pup’s first vet visit, have a pet first aid kit on hand and research local 24/7 emergency vet clinics. Supplements like probiotics can also support your Yorkie’s overall health and immunity. Don’t forget to order an ID tag with your contact info in case your pup ever gets loose.

Preparing your home and having these essentials ready to go will make the transition to bringing your new Yorkie puppy home so much smoother.