Biggest Mistakes of Yorkie Owners (And How to Avoid Them)
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are among the most popular toy dog breeds in the world. With their luxurious silky coats, playful personalities, and loyal nature, it’s no wonder so many families fall in love with them. But owning a Yorkie isn’t as simple as picking one up and giving it cuddles. These small but mighty dogs require specific care, and many first-time (and even experienced) Yorkie owners make mistakes that can affect their pet’s health, behavior, and overall happiness.
In this guide, we’ll cover the biggest mistakes Yorkie owners make—and more importantly, how you can avoid them to ensure your pup lives a long, healthy, and joy-filled life.
Table of Contents
1. Skipping Proper Training and Socialization
One of the most common mistakes Yorkie owners make is underestimating the importance of training. Because Yorkies are small, many people assume they don’t need as much discipline as larger breeds. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
- Why it’s a mistake: Without proper training, Yorkies can develop small-dog syndrome—becoming bossy, yappy, and even aggressive.
- How to avoid it: Start basic obedience training as early as possible. Focus on commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. Socialize your Yorkie with other dogs, people, and environments to prevent fear-based behaviors.
💡 Tip: Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes) since Yorkies can lose interest quickly. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
2. Ignoring Their Grooming Needs
Yorkies are known for their gorgeous, flowing coats. But that beauty comes with responsibility. Many owners underestimate the time and effort required to maintain their Yorkie’s fur.
- Why it’s a mistake: Neglected coats can become matted, leading to discomfort, skin infections, and even parasites.
- How to avoid it: Brush your Yorkie’s hair daily to prevent tangles. Schedule regular grooming appointments or learn to trim their coat at home.
💡 Tip: Don’t forget dental care, ear cleaning, and nail trimming—Yorkies are prone to dental disease, which can shorten their lifespan if ignored.
3. Overfeeding or Feeding the Wrong Diet
Because Yorkies are so tiny, their diet needs to be carefully monitored. Many owners either overfeed them treats or give them human food, which can be harmful.
- Why it’s a mistake: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which puts stress on their fragile joints and increases the risk of diabetes. Some foods, like chocolate, grapes, and onions, are toxic to Yorkies.
- How to avoid it: Stick to a high-quality small-breed dog food. Follow portion guidelines, and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily intake.
💡 Tip: Yorkies are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially as puppies. Feed small, frequent meals instead of one large serving.
4. Skipping Regular Vet Visits
Yorkies may be small, but they’re not immune to health problems. Many owners wait until their Yorkie is visibly sick before going to the vet, which can be dangerous.
- Why it’s a mistake: Preventative care is crucial for catching issues early. Yorkies are prone to conditions like luxating patella (slipped kneecap), tracheal collapse, and dental disease.
- How to avoid it: Schedule annual vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. If your Yorkie is a senior (over 7 years old), consider twice-yearly visits.
💡 Tip: Pet insurance can help make veterinary care more affordable and ensure your Yorkie gets the treatment they need.
5. Treating Them Like a Toy Instead of a Dog
Yorkies may be tiny, but they are still dogs with instincts, needs, and emotions. A common mistake is treating them more like a doll than a living animal.
- Why it’s a mistake: Over-coddling can lead to separation anxiety, fearfulness, or aggression. Some owners also allow unsafe handling, which puts the Yorkie at risk of injury.
- How to avoid it: Encourage independence by crate training and allowing your Yorkie to explore safely. Teach children the proper way to handle them—never drop, squeeze, or carry them roughly.
💡 Tip: Despite their size, Yorkies have a strong prey drive. Always supervise them outdoors, and never let them off-leash in an unfenced area.
6. Not Providing Enough Exercise
It’s easy to assume Yorkies don’t need much exercise because they’re small. While they won’t need hours of running like a Husky, they do need daily physical and mental stimulation.
- Why it’s a mistake: Without enough activity, Yorkies can become bored, anxious, and destructive.
- How to avoid it: Take your Yorkie on at least one or two short walks daily, and provide toys that challenge their mind.
💡 Tip: Puzzle feeders and interactive toys are excellent for keeping their sharp little minds engaged.
7. Ignoring Their Fragile Size
Yorkies weigh just 4–7 pounds on average, making them one of the most delicate breeds. Some owners forget how easily they can get injured.
- Why it’s a mistake: Rough play, jumping off furniture, or being stepped on can lead to broken bones or internal injuries.
- How to avoid it: Provide ramps or stairs for furniture, supervise playtime, and teach children how to handle them safely.
💡 Tip: Always use a harness instead of a collar on walks—Yorkies have delicate tracheas that can collapse with too much pressure.
8. Not Being Consistent with Rules
Consistency is key with Yorkies. Many owners allow behaviors like begging, barking, or sleeping in the bed, and then try to correct them later.
- Why it’s a mistake: Inconsistency confuses your Yorkie and makes training more difficult.
- How to avoid it: Decide early on what the household rules are and stick to them. If you don’t want your Yorkie on the couch, don’t make exceptions.
💡 Tip: Everyone in the household must follow the same rules to avoid mixed signals.
9. Neglecting Their Mental Health
Yorkies are intelligent and affectionate dogs. When left alone too long or not mentally stimulated, they can develop separation anxiety or destructive habits.
- Why it’s a mistake: Mental stress can lead to excessive barking, chewing, or even health issues.
- How to avoid it: Spend quality time with your Yorkie every day. Offer puzzle toys, training games, or even short agility courses at home.
💡 Tip: A tired Yorkie is a happy Yorkie—keep them busy both physically and mentally.
10. Underestimating Their Lifespan
Yorkies can live up to 14–16 years with proper care, but many owners don’t plan for the long commitment.
- Why it’s a mistake: Some owners grow impatient as their Yorkie ages, neglecting senior care.
- How to avoid it: Understand that owning a Yorkie is a long-term responsibility. Adjust their diet, exercise, and vet care as they age.
💡 Tip: Senior Yorkies may need softer food, more frequent vet checkups, and extra comfort in their golden years.
Final Thoughts: Raising a Happy, Healthy Yorkie
Yorkies are loving, lively, and loyal companions—but only when given the right care. The biggest mistakes Yorkie owners make often come from underestimating their needs or treating them like toys instead of dogs. By avoiding these common errors, you’ll give your Yorkie the best chance at a long, joyful, and healthy life.
Remember: a well-trained, well-fed, well-loved Yorkie will give you years of unconditional love and companionship.
