Yorkie-Proof Your Home: 10 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Yorkie Safe

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Imagine coming home to find your beloved Yorkie tangled in a mess of electrical cords or struggling with a small object lodged in their throat. These scenarios are every pet parent’s nightmare, but with the right precautions, they’re entirely preventable. Creating a safe haven for your Yorkshire Terrier isn’t just about love – it’s about understanding their unique needs and potential vulnerabilities.

1. Supervise Like They’re Toddlers

When it comes to Yorkies, the old adage “curiosity killed the cat” could easily apply to these little guys. Their inquisitive nature and small size make them prone to getting into mischief. Treat your Yorkie like a toddler by keeping a watchful eye on them at all times.

• Close doors to rooms you don’t want them exploring
• Pick up small objects from the floor that could be choking hazards
• Be aware of their whereabouts, especially when cooking or cleaning
• Try to keep electric cords out of their reach as some dogs like to chew on them

Remember, prevention is key. By supervising your Yorkie closely, you can catch potential dangers before they become real problems.

2. Implement Yorkie Safety Precautions

Creating barriers is an effective way to keep your Yorkie out of trouble. Use baby gates to block off stairs or rooms that aren’t Yorkie-friendly. Consider installing a low fence around potentially dangerous areas like fireplaces or radiators.

For outdoor safety, ensure your yard is securely fenced. Yorkies are small enough to squeeze through tiny gaps, so regularly inspect your fence for any holes or weak spots.

3. Prevent Tracheal Collapse

Yorkies are prone to tracheal collapse, a condition where the windpipe weakens and flattens. To reduce strain on their delicate necks, always use a harness instead of a collar when walking your Yorkie.

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• Choose a harness that fits snugly but doesn’t restrict movement
• Avoid letting your Yorkie pull on the leash
• Consider a no-pull harness for extra protection

By taking these precautions, you can help prevent this common and potentially serious health issue.

4. Secure Household Poisons

Many common household items can be toxic to Yorkies. Keep these out of reach by moving them to high shelves or locked cabinets:

• Cleaning products
• Medications
• Certain plants (like lilies and aloe vera)
• Antifreeze (mostly the older variety as it is sweet, but all antifreeze should be out of reach)
• Pesticides and rodenticides

Install childproof locks on lower cabinets to prevent your curious Yorkie from accessing dangerous substances. Remember, what’s safe for humans isn’t always safe for our fur babies.

5. Create a Yorkie-Friendly Home Setup

A Yorkie-friendly home is all about accessibility and safety. Start by introducing a crate as a safe space for your pup. This can be particularly useful during moves or when you need to confine your Yorkie for short periods.

Or you can use a pet corral, which is what I prefer for my own dogs.

Pet steps are another essential for Yorkie owners. These help your tiny terrier access furniture without putting strain on their joints. Place them near beds and couches to prevent your Yorkie from attempting dangerous jumps.

Organize your Yorkie’s toys in easy-to-reach bins. This not only keeps your home tidy but also prevents tripping hazards for both you and your pup.

Speaking of toys, keep a close eye on your pup’s toys. They can accidentally bite off pieces and cause internal blockages or choke. My grand-dog Odie chewed off half a Nylabone that got lodged in his intestines and had to have surgery to remove it.

6. Maintain Regular Grooming

Keeping your Yorkie clean isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a crucial part of their health and safety. Regular grooming helps you spot any potential health issues early.

• Bathe your Yorkie every 2-4 weeks, depending on their lifestyle
• Brush their coat daily to prevent matting
• Use a leave-in spritz to maintain coat health between baths
• Regularly check for any skin irritations or unusual lumps
• Keep their nails trimmed as nails that are too long can get snagged on things and cause injuries or cause problems with walking

A well-groomed Yorkie is a happy and healthy Yorkie. Plus, regular grooming sessions strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

7. Ensure Easy Access to Furniture

While Yorkies are known for their spunky personalities, their small size can make navigating a human-sized world challenging. Pet stairs are a game-changer for Yorkie owners.

• Place pet stairs near beds and tall couches
• Choose stairs with non-slip surfaces for added safety
• Gradually introduce your Yorkie to using the stairs with treats and praise
• I have pet steps by all the beds in my house and by the couch too.

Here are the pet steps we like best (you can get them in varying heights):

By providing easy access to furniture, you’re not just making your Yorkie’s life easier – you’re also protecting their joints from the impact of jumping up and down.

8. Manage Stress and Anxiety

Yorkies, like many small breeds, can be prone to anxiety. Creating a calm environment is crucial for their mental well-being and safety.

During stressful times like thunderstorms or fireworks:

• Cover your Yorkie’s crate with a blanket to create a cozy den
• Play soft music or white noise to drown out scary sounds
• Consider using anxiety wraps or calming supplements (after consulting with your vet)

A calm Yorkie is less likely to engage in destructive or dangerous behaviors, making stress management an important part of home safety.

9. Provide Adequate Exercise

A tired Yorkie is a well-behaved Yorkie. Despite their small size, these terriers have a lot of energy to burn. Regular exercise is crucial for their physical and mental health.

• Aim for two 15-20 minute walks daily
• Incorporate playtime with interactive toys
• Consider agility training for mental stimulation

Proper exercise not only keeps your Yorkie fit but also reduces the likelihood of them getting into mischief at home out of boredom.

10. Be Prepared for Emergencies

No matter how careful we are, emergencies can happen. Being prepared can make all the difference in a crisis.

Create a Yorkie emergency kit including:

• Your vet’s contact information
• A list of nearby 24-hour emergency animal hospitals
• A copy of your Yorkie’s medical records
• Basic first aid supplies
• A recent photo of your Yorkie

Familiarize yourself with basic pet first aid and know the signs of common Yorkie health issues like hypoglycemia and luxating patella.

Creating a safe home environment for your Yorkshire Terrier is an ongoing process. It requires vigilance, preparation, and a deep understanding of your fur baby’s needs. By implementing these ten essential tips, you’re not just Yorkie-proofing your home – you’re creating a haven where your Yorkie can thrive.

Remember, the key to keeping your Yorkie safe is to think like a Yorkie. Get down on their level, see the world through their eyes, and address potential dangers before they become real threats. With a little effort and a lot of love, you can ensure that your home is the safest, most comfortable place for your precious Yorkie to live and play.

Cathy Bendzunas

Dog Blogger, Pet Hotel Employee, Pet Sitter, Former Pet Groomer

I have adored Yorkies for well over 50 years. As a young adult, I began to show and breed them. Now, I just write about them and have several in my little pack of small dogs.
I have had dogs all my life and have trained as a dog groomer. I also have been a kennel worker, worked in a pet hotel through PetSmart, and still am a pet sitter.
Check out my bio for more information about me.