When it comes to taking your Yorkshire Terrier out for a walk, choosing the right leash is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best for your pet. In this article, we’ll help you decide what kind of leash is best for your Yorkie.
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the size and strength of your Yorkshire Terrier. Since Yorkies are small dogs, a leash that is too heavy or long may not be suitable for them. Additionally, if your Yorkie tends to pull on the leash, you’ll want to choose a leash that is designed to discourage pulling. We’ll explore different types of leashes and their benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Retractable leashes are a great option for Yorkies, but it’s important to choose one with a gentle pull that won’t yank your pup off their feet. Additionally, harnesses can be a good choice for Yorkies since their small necks can be easily injured by traditional collars. We’ll delve into the best types of harnesses for Yorkies in this article as well.
Table of Contents
Why Choosing the Right Leash is Important for Yorkies
When it comes to walking your Yorkie, choosing the right leash is crucial. Not all leashes are created equal, and some can be harmful to your dog’s health. Here’s why:
- Control: Yorkies are small dogs, and they can be easily overwhelmed by their surroundings. A good leash will give you better control over your dog, allowing you to keep them safe in crowded areas.
- Trachea: Yorkies are prone to tracheal collapse, a condition where the windpipe becomes weaker and narrower. A leash that puts pressure on your dog’s neck can exacerbate this condition, leading to breathing difficulties.
- Pressure: Some leashes use a retractable design that can put pressure on your dog’s neck or back. This pressure can cause discomfort or even injury, especially if your dog is prone to pulling.
To avoid these issues, it’s important to choose a leash that is specifically designed for small dogs like Yorkies. Look for a leash that is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to control. A harness is also a good option, as it distributes pressure more evenly across your dog’s body.
Remember, the right leash can make all the difference in keeping your Yorkie safe and healthy on walks.
Types of Leashes for Yorkies
When it comes to walking your Yorkie, choosing the right leash is essential. There are two main types of leashes: collars and harnesses. Here’s what you need to know about each:
Collars
Collars are the most common type of leash for Yorkies. They come in various materials such as nylon and leather. Nylon collars are lightweight and durable, while leather collars are more stylish and long-lasting.
When selecting a collar, it’s important to choose one that fits your Yorkie comfortably. A collar that is too tight can cause discomfort and even injury, while a collar that is too loose can slip off. You can measure your Yorkie’s neck to determine the right size.
Harnesses
Harnesses are an excellent alternative to collars, especially for Yorkies who tend to pull or have respiratory issues. There are two main types of harnesses: strap harnesses and vest harnesses.
Strap harnesses are made of nylon or leather straps that wrap around your Yorkie’s chest and shoulders. They are adjustable and provide a secure fit. Vest harnesses, on the other hand, are made of mesh or other breathable materials and cover more of your Yorkie’s body. They are easy to put on and take off, making them ideal for Yorkies who don’t like to be restrained.
When selecting a harness, it’s important to choose one that fits your Yorkie comfortably and doesn’t restrict their movement. You can measure your Yorkie’s chest and neck to determine the right size.
What to Consider When Choosing a Leash for Your Yorkie
When it comes to choosing a leash for your Yorkie, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure you get the best one for your pet. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
Since Yorkies are small dogs, you need to choose a leash that is lightweight and won’t weigh them down. Look for a leash that is specifically designed for small dogs, such as the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness or a car harness that fits comfortably around their chest girth.
Comfort and Durability
Your Yorkie’s leash should be made of a durable material that can withstand wear and tear. Polyester and nylon webbing are popular choices for their strength and resistance to water. Additionally, the leash should have soft, padded straps for a comfortable fit that won’t rub against your dog’s skin.
Washability
Your Yorkie’s leash will get dirty over time, so it’s important to choose one that is easy to clean. Look for a leash that is machine washable or can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
When choosing a leash for your Yorkie, keep in mind their unique needs and preferences. For example, if your Yorkie has a collapsed trachea, a harness may be a better option than a collar. Additionally, consider attaching an ID tag to the leash in case your Yorkie gets lost.
Remember, the best dog harness for a Yorkshire Terrier is one that fits comfortably and securely. With the right leash, you and your Yorkie can enjoy many happy walks together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right leash for your Yorkie is crucial for their safety and comfort. You should consider the size and strength of your dog, as well as their behavior on walks. A retractable leash with a gentle pull is recommended to give your Yorkie some freedom while still keeping them close.
It’s also important to choose a leash with secure hardware and adjustable buckles. A harness with a front leash attachment can help with pulling and give you more control over your dog. Additionally, a leash with a reflective strip can help keep you and your dog visible during night walks.
Remember to always supervise your Yorkie while on a leash and never leave them unattended. By choosing the right leash for your Yorkie, you can ensure their safety and make walks more enjoyable for both of you.
FAQ
Is a collar or harness better for a Yorkie?
A harness is a much better option than a collar for your Yorkie. While a collar is great for tags in case your dog is lost, when it comes to walking a harness is a more effective means of control and it’s safer for your dog.
With a collar, when you pull the leash then all of that force is going to your Yorkies neck. The harness has a ring on your dog’s back, so the force is better distributed. Harnesses also tend to have a ‘handle’ on the back, in case you need to safely lift your dog away from something quickly.
Can you put a leash on a Yorkie?
Yes, you can certainly leash train your dog and it’s a good idea for when you will be taking them for walks.
Use the leash in conjunction with a harness – attaching it to a collar puts strain on your dog’s neck – and consider a retractable leash so that you can give your dog extra freedom as-needed or keep them closer when other dogs are nearby.
Are long walks good for Yorkies?
Long walks are good exercise for your dog and also a great way to calm them down. Adult Yorkies sleep between 13 and 16 hours a day, but they have a lot of energy when they are awake, and a long walk before bed is a great way to make sure that you are both going to sleep at the same time.
At a bare minimum, you should give your dog two 20 minute walks a day, but longer walks are definitely appreciated by your dog and are good for them.
What size harness does a Yorkie wear?
Typically, sizing for a harness is going to be a matter of your dog’s chest girth and the neck. That said, you can buy pre-sized harnesses in small, medium, and large, and there are some which are adjustable to some degree if you don’t happen to have your dog’s measurements handy when you are shopping.
Just be sure to get as good a fit as possible, as your dog can slip out of a loose harness and potentially come to harm from this.
What size collar does a Yorkie wear?
Yorkshire Terriers, depending on their size and age, will typically sport a collar which measures 6 up to 12 inches in length. Just pick one that is adjustable and you should be okay.
If you accidentally get a collar that won’t close tightly enough, you can make additional holes for now but it’s best to get another collar that fits properly as soon as possible. Wear and tear with makeshift holes can quickly compromise the collar after a few spirited walks.
Are collars bad for Yorkies?
Collars are good for holding tags in case you dog is lost but not that great for walking. While they will do in a pinch, a leash on a collar puts a lot of strain on your dog’s neck.
This makes a harness a better option for attaching a leash, as it will put the ‘pull’ of the leash on the center of your dog’s back — not on their little necks!
How often should I walk my Yorkie?
You want to make sure that your Yorkie is getting at least 30 minutes of outside walking exercise every day. Even better would be two 20-minute walks, so that your dog can potty and get a little exercise with some fresh air.
Since they are small dogs, your apartment or home is almost palatial to your Yorkie, but a little outside time is still the best idea for keeping your Yorkie happy and healthy.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
