Yorkie
Yorkie Puppy Development: Birth to 8 Weeks
The first 8 weeks of a Yorkie puppy's life shape who they'll become. Here's what's happening week by week — and what your breeder should be doing during that time.
September 7, 2026 · 5 min read
Weeks 1–2: Neonatal Period
Yorkie puppies at birth are completely dependent. Eyes and ears are sealed. Yorkies are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia as neonates — feeding, warmth, and weight monitoring are daily priorities. We practice Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) during this window.
Weeks 2–3: Transitional Period
Eyes open around day 14, ears open around day 21. Teeth begin erupting at around 3 weeks, and puppies start exploring solid food.
Weeks 3–7: Primary Socialization Window
This is the most important developmental window. Our puppies during this window meet children, men, women, experience varied flooring, hear appliances and outdoor sounds, ride in cars, and are handled for ears, paws, mouth, and body.
Week 7–8: First Fear Imprint Period Begins
A frightening experience during this window can create lasting aversions — one of the reasons we do not release puppies before 10 weeks. The first week home should be calm and positive.
What 10 Weeks Ready Means
- First two vaccine sets complete
- Deworming protocol done
- Hypoglycemia monitoring complete and puppy eating independently
- Socialized to household sounds and people