A Room-by-Room Safety Guide for Yorkie Puppies

Bringing home a Yorkie puppy is one of the most exciting days you’ll ever experience. Those tiny paws, bright eyes, and playful personality make it hard not to fall in love immediately.

But if you’ve ever lived with a puppy before, you know they’re also little explorers with a talent for finding trouble. One minute they’re napping in your lap, and the next they’re chewing your phone charger, carrying off your favorite sock, or squeezing into a space you didn’t even know existed.

Yorkshire Terriers are especially curious. Because they’re so small, they can crawl under furniture, slip through tiny openings, and reach places that larger puppies simply can’t. That’s why taking the time to puppy-proof your home before your new furry baby arrives is one of the best things you can do.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to puppy-proof every room in your home, point out hazards many new puppy owners overlook, and share simple ways to keep both your Yorkie and your belongings safe.

Don’t worry if your home isn’t perfect before your puppy arrives. Puppy-proofing isn’t something you do once and forget about. As your Yorkie grows, you’ll probably notice new things they can reach, jump onto, or become interested in. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s making your home as safe as possible while you learn your puppy’s personality and habits.

Why Puppy-Proofing Is So Important

Puppies don’t get into trouble because they’re being naughty. They explore the world with their mouths, and everything looks like it might be fun to chew, chase, or swallow.

Unfortunately, many everyday household items can become dangerous in a matter of seconds. Electrical cords, medications, cleaning supplies, socks, batteries, and even certain foods can lead to emergency trips to the veterinarian.

A little preparation now can prevent expensive accidents later—not to mention a lot of unnecessary worry.

Think of puppy-proofing the same way you would baby-proofing your home. Until your Yorkie learns what’s acceptable, it’s your job to make sure dangerous temptations are out of reach.

What You’ll Need Before Your Puppy Comes Home

Getting a few essentials before your Yorkie puppy arrives will make those first few days much less stressful. Having everything ready means you can focus on helping your new companion settle into their new home instead of making last-minute trips to the pet store.

Here’s a basic checklist to get you started:

• ✔ Crate
• ✔ Exercise pen or baby gates
• ✔ Food and water bowls
• ✔ Puppy food recommended by the breeder or rescue
• ✔ Puppy-safe chew toys
• ✔ A comfortable bed
• ✔ Collar or harness with an ID tag (harness is better)
• ✔ Leash
• ✔ Enzymatic cleaner for accidents
• ✔ Grooming brush and comb
• ✔ Nail clippers or grinder
• ✔ Puppy shampoo
• ✔ Treats for training
• ✔ Waste bags
• ✔ Food puzzle toys or a Kong

You don’t need to buy every puppy product on the market before bringing your Yorkie home. Start with the basics, then add other items as you learn your puppy’s personality and preferences.

Think Like a Puppy

One of the best puppy-proofing tips I’ve ever heard is to get down on your hands and knees and look at your house from your puppy’s point of view.

You’ll probably notice hazards you’ve never thought about before.

As you move through each room, ask yourself:

• Can my puppy chew this?
• Could they swallow it?
• Could they pull it down?
• Could they crawl behind it?
• Is it poisonous?
• Could it fall on them?

Seeing your home from puppy level makes it much easier to spot potential dangers before your new Yorkie does.

🐾 Yorkie Tip: If your puppy suddenly becomes quiet, don’t assume they’re sleeping. Yorkie puppies are notorious for finding tiny hiding places while they’re exploring.

Room-by-Room Puppy-Proofing Guide

Living Room

The living room is often where puppies spend most of their time, so it’s usually the first room that needs attention.

Hide Electrical Cords

Electrical cords are one of the biggest temptations for teething puppies.

Secure:

• Phone chargers
• Laptop cords
• Television cables
• Extension cords
• Power strips

Use cord covers, cable organizers, or furniture to keep them out of reach whenever possible.

Remove Small Objects

Anything small enough to fit into your puppy’s mouth is a potential choking hazard.

Pick up items such as:

• Coins
• Hair ties
• Rubber bands
• Buttons
• Earbuds
• Children’s toys
• Batteries
• Pen caps
• Decorative stones

Yorkies are tiny, so even objects that wouldn’t concern owners of larger breeds can become dangerous.

Keep Remote Controls Safe

Many puppies love chewing remote controls.

Besides destroying your TV remote, swallowing batteries can cause severe internal injuries.

Store remotes on high shelves or inside drawers when you’re not using them.

Secure Houseplants

Many common houseplants are toxic to dogs.

If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, move it where your puppy can’t reach it until you’ve confirmed it’s pet-friendly.

Protect Furniture

Teething puppies often chew chair legs, coffee tables, pillows, and couch cushions.

Instead of constantly telling your puppy “No,” make sure they always have several appropriate chew toys nearby.

When they choose the correct toy, praise them enthusiastically. Puppies learn much faster when they’re rewarded for making good choices.

Watch Recliners and Rocking Chairs

This is especially important with Yorkies.

Because they’re so small, they sometimes crawl underneath recliners or rocking chairs for a nap.

Always check before sitting down or closing the footrest.

🐾 Yorkie Tip: Yorkie puppies can squeeze underneath recliners, sofas, and even some appliances. Before sitting down, moving furniture, or closing a recliner, take a quick look to make sure your little explorer isn’t hiding underneath.

Kitchen

The kitchen contains more hidden dangers than almost any other room.

Store Human Food Safely

Many foods we enjoy are dangerous for dogs.

Keep foods like these well out of reach:

• Chocolate
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Onions
• Garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Foods containing xylitol (sometimes called birch sugar)

Even small amounts of some of these foods can make a tiny Yorkie seriously ill.

Secure the Trash

Your puppy will think the trash can is a treasure chest.

Use a trash can with a secure lid or place it inside a cabinet with a childproof latch.

Food wrappers, chicken bones, coffee grounds, and spoiled food can all pose risks.

Lock Up Cleaning Products

Store:

• Bleach
• Dish soap
• Dishwasher pods
• Drain cleaner
• Oven cleaner
• Floor cleaners

Lock the cabinets with childproof locks whenever possible.

Keep Counters Clear

Puppies grow quickly and become surprisingly good at reaching things they shouldn’t.

Avoid leaving:

• Knives
• Hot pans
• Plastic wrap
• Aluminum foil
• Food

within reach.

Bathroom

Bathrooms contain dozens of items that curious puppies love investigating.

Keep the Toilet Lid Closed

Some puppies enjoy drinking toilet water. Yorkie puppies are too small to be concerned about this, and actually most puppies are too small to do this. Just be sure there isn’t a way for them to jump on nearby things to get to the toilet.

Besides being unpleasant, toilet bowl cleaners can leave harmful chemical residue. There is also the possibility that they could drown.

Store Medications Securely

Never leave pills on a countertop. They can accidentally be knocked off and fall to the floor.

Even vitamins and supplements can be dangerous if swallowed.

Keep prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamins inside cabinets.

Pick Up Hair Accessories

Hair ties are one of the most commonly swallowed household items.

Although they seem harmless, they can cause dangerous intestinal blockages that require surgery.

Also keep these out of reach:

• Bobby pins
• Cotton swabs
• Dental floss
• Razors
• Tweezers

Empty Bathroom Trash Often

Bathroom trash often contains tempting items like tissues, cotton balls, dental floss, and personal hygiene products that puppies may chew or swallow.

A covered trash can is your safest option.

Laundry Room

The laundry room often gets overlooked during puppy-proofing, but it can be one of the most hazardous areas in the house.

Keep safely stored:

• Laundry detergent
• Detergent pods
• Bleach
• Fabric softener
• Dryer sheets
• Stain removers

Always keep your washer and dryer doors closed, too. Curious puppies sometimes try to climb inside.

Bedroom

Bedrooms are full of things puppies find irresistible.

Pick Up Clothes

Dirty laundry can confuse puppies during house training.

Some puppies decide that piles of clothes or towels are acceptable places to pee because they absorb moisture.

Keeping laundry in a hamper helps prevent accidents while protecting your favorite clothes from curious teeth.

🐾 Yorkie Tip: Many Yorkie puppies seem to think socks are the greatest toy ever invented! Unfortunately, socks are also one of the most common items veterinarians remove from dogs’ stomachs after they’re swallowed. Keep laundry picked up and use a hamper with a lid if your little thief likes to “borrow” socks.

Put Shoes Away

Shoes are another favorite target.

Besides expensive damage, swallowed pieces of leather, laces, or insoles can create intestinal blockages.

Keep Jewelry and Accessories Stored

Store safely:

• Necklaces
• Earrings
• Watches
• Bracelets
• Rings
• Hair clips

Anything shiny can become a puppy toy in seconds.

Hide Charging Cables

Bedroom phone chargers are some of the most commonly chewed cords in the house.

If possible, charge devices where your puppy can’t reach them.

Stairs

Stairs can be exciting for curious puppies, but they can also be intimidating—and dangerous.

Young Yorkie puppies are still developing their balance and coordination. A fall down a flight of stairs can result in painful injuries, especially because they’re such a small breed.

Until your puppy is confident on the stairs, it’s a good idea to supervise them or block access with a baby gate.

You can also help your puppy build confidence by introducing stairs slowly. Encourage them with treats and praise, and never force them if they seem frightened. As they grow and become more coordinated, most Yorkies learn to navigate stairs safely.

Keep stairways free of shoes, toys, and other clutter that could become tripping hazards for both you and your puppy. Good lighting is also important, especially if your Yorkie needs to use the stairs early in the morning or at night.

If your staircase has wide, open railings or balusters, make sure the spaces are too small for your Yorkie puppy to squeeze through. Tiny puppies can sometimes fit through openings that seem impossibly small, so consider using a temporary mesh guard or other barrier until your puppy is bigger.

Keep stairways free of shoes, toys, and other clutter that could become tripping hazards for both you and your puppy. Good lighting is also important, especially if your Yorkie needs to use the stairs early in the morning or at night.

🐾 Yorkie Tip: Baby gates are one of the easiest ways to prevent stair accidents during your puppy’s first few months. Once your Yorkie has grown, gained confidence, and learned to use the stairs safely, you can gradually remove the gates if you choose.

Home Office

If you work from home, don’t forget your office.

Secure items like:

• Computer cords
• Paper clips
• Thumbtacks
• Staples
• Pens
• Printer ink
• Batteries

These small office supplies can quickly become dangerous if swallowed.

Garage and Outdoor Puppy-Proofing

Garage

Garages are full of interesting smells, but they also contain some of the most dangerous items your puppy can encounter.

Store these items securely out of reach:

• Antifreeze
• Fertilizers
• Weed killers
• Pesticides
• Paints and paint thinners
• Motor oil
• Gasoline
• Ice melt
• Sharp tools
• Nails, screws, and hardware

Even a small amount of antifreeze can be fatal to dogs, so clean up any spills immediately.

Keep Doors Closed

Many puppies love exploring open garages. Unfortunately, garages often provide easy access to chemicals, tools, and escape routes.

Whenever possible, keep the garage door closed and supervise your Yorkie if they’re outside with you.

Backyard

Your yard should be a fun place for your puppy—but it’s worth taking a careful look before letting them explore.

Check Your Fence

Yorkshire Terriers are surprisingly talented escape artists.

Walk the perimeter of your fence and look for:

• Small gaps
• Loose boards
• Holes underneath fencing
• Gates that don’t latch securely

Remember, if your puppy can fit their head through an opening, the rest of them can often follow.

🐾 Yorkie Tip: Tiny Yorkie puppies can squeeze through openings much smaller than most people expect. Check your fence from ground level before your puppy’s first adventure outside.

Remove Dangerous Yard Hazards

Pick up or remove:

• Sharp sticks
• Broken flower pots
• Garden tools
• Loose rocks
• Fallen fruit
• Mushrooms
• Standing water

If you have a pool or pond, never allow your puppy outside without supervision.

Hidden Household Hazards Many Owners Miss

Some of the biggest dangers don’t look dangerous at all.

Keep these common household items out of your puppy’s reach:

• Hair ties
• Rubber bands
• Dental floss
• String
• Ribbon
• Yarn
• Sewing needles
• Buttons
• Coins
• Batteries (especially button batteries)
• Earbuds
• Children’s toys
• Plastic bags

Many of these items can cause intestinal blockages that require emergency surgery.

Holiday Decorations

Every holiday seems to bring new temptations.

Be extra careful around:

Christmas

• Tinsel
• Ornaments
• Gift ribbon
• Tree lights
• Wrapping paper

Easter

• Plastic grass
• Chocolate
• Candy

Halloween

• Candy
• Glow sticks
• Decorations

Thanksgiving

• Turkey bones
• Cooking twine
• Fatty leftovers

Valentine’s Day

• Chocolate
• Flowers
• Gift ribbon

Plants That Can Be Harmful to Dogs

Many popular indoor and outdoor plants are toxic if chewed.

Some common examples include:

• Aloe Vera
• Philodendron
• Pothos
• Peace Lily
• Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
• Azaleas
• Oleander
• Sago Palm
• Tulips
• Daffodils

If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, check with your veterinarian before allowing your puppy near it.

Create a Safe Puppy Zone

Even the best puppy-proofed home can’t eliminate every hazard.

One of the easiest ways to keep your puppy safe is by creating a dedicated puppy area.

This can be:

• A crate
• An exercise pen
• A gated room
• A combination of these

Include:

• Fresh water
• A comfortable bed
• Safe chew toys
• Food puzzle toys
• A stuffed Kong
• A soft blanket

Having a puppy-safe area gives you peace of mind when you can’t supervise every second.

Redirect Chewing Instead of Punishing

Every puppy chews.

It’s how they explore the world and relieve sore gums during teething.

Instead of scolding your puppy every time they chew something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to an appropriate toy.

When they choose the correct item, praise them enthusiastically.

This positive approach helps puppies learn much faster than punishment.

Rotating several different chew toys also helps keep them interesting.

Some puppies especially enjoy:

• Rubber chew toys
• Rope toys
• Puppy teething rings
• Frozen washcloths
• Frozen stuffed Kongs

🐾 Yorkie Tip: Yorkies are intelligent little dogs. If you consistently praise them for chewing their own toys instead of your belongings, they’ll usually learn the difference surprisingly quickly.

Teach “Leave It” and “Drop It”

These two commands can literally save your puppy’s life.

Leave It

Use “Leave It” when your puppy notices something they shouldn’t touch.

Reward them immediately when they look away from the object and back at you.

Drop It

“Drop It” teaches your puppy to release something already in their mouth.

Rather than chasing them around the house, offer a tasty treat in exchange for the object.

Most puppies quickly learn that giving something up leads to an even better reward.

Yorkie-Specific Puppy-Proofing Tips

Yorkshire Terriers have a few unique traits that make puppy-proofing even more important.

They Fit Almost Anywhere

Your Yorkie may disappear under:

• Recliners
• Beds
• Sofas
• Cabinets
• End tables

Always know where your puppy is before moving furniture.

They’re Tiny but Fearless

Many Yorkie puppies don’t realize how small they are.

Protect them from:

• Jumping off furniture
• Climbing stairs unattended
• Larger dogs that may accidentally injure them

They Love Following You

Don’t be surprised if your puppy quietly follows you from room to room.

Take a quick look behind you before stepping backward or closing doors.

It’s surprisingly easy to overlook such a tiny companion.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Even careful owners experience accidents sometimes.

Keep these phone numbers handy:

• Your veterinarian
• The nearest emergency veterinary hospital
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, which is 888-426-4435

It’s also a good idea to keep a basic pet first aid kit at home.

New Puppy Home Safety Checklist

Before bringing your Yorkie puppy home, make sure you’ve:

✔ Hidden electrical cords and chargers

✔ Locked away medications

✔ Stored cleaning products safely

✔ Removed toxic foods from reach

✔ Checked your houseplants

✔ Covered trash cans

✔ Picked up socks, shoes, and laundry

✔ Stored hair ties and rubber bands

✔ Removed small choking hazards

✔ Set up a crate or puppy playpen

✔ Bought safe chew toys

✔ Purchased an enzymatic cleaner for accidents

✔ Checked your fence for escape routes

✔ Saved emergency veterinary phone numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I puppy-proof my house?

Ideally, before your puppy comes home, it’s much easier to remove hazards ahead of time than to chase a curious puppy away from them later.

How long do puppies chew everything?

Most puppies chew heavily while they’re teething, usually until they’re about six months old. Some continue chewing into adolescence, especially if they’re bored or don’t have appropriate chew toys.

Are electrical cords really that dangerous?

Yes. Chewing electrical cords can cause burns inside the mouth, electric shock, or even death. Keep all cords secured or out of reach.

Should my Yorkie have free run of the house?

Not at first. Limiting your puppy to puppy-proofed areas makes house training easier and helps prevent accidents while they learn the rules.

Is it okay to use a playpen?

Absolutely! Exercise pens are one of the safest ways to give your puppy room to play while keeping them away from hazards when you can’t supervise them closely.

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a Yorkie puppy is an unforgettable experience. Yes, there will probably be a few chewed shoes, a couple of potty accidents, and moments when you wonder how something so small can get into so much mischief. But with a little preparation and patience, you’ll create a safe environment where your puppy can learn, grow, and thrive.

Remember that puppy-proofing isn’t a one-time project. As your Yorkie grows and becomes more confident, they’ll discover new places to explore and new ways to surprise you! Continue looking at your home through your puppy’s eyes, and make adjustments as needed.

Before long, your energetic little explorer will grow into a well-mannered companion, and you’ll be glad you took the time to make your home safe from the very beginning.

If you’re preparing for your new furry family member, you might also enjoy these articles:

• Why Are Yorkshire Terriers Hard to Housetrain?
• Puppy Pads: Should You Use Them?
• Fascinating Yorkie Puppy Facts
• Best Toys for Yorkie Puppies