10 Biggest Yorkie Owner Mistakes (Stop These Now)

Last updated on January 31st, 2026 at 07:25 am

Yorkies are small, spunky, and lovable little dogs, but let’s be honest—sometimes they can test your patience.

As a Yorkie owner myself, I’ve learned the hard way how easily you can fall into a few traps if you’re not paying attention.

If you’re new to Yorkie life or struggling with some quirks, I get it!

Let’s take a look at the biggest mistakes I’ve seen—and that I’ve made—when owning these adorable little furballs.

1. Not Giving Them Enough Exercise

One of the most common mistakes Yorkie owners make is thinking their small size means they don’t need much exercise. They’re tiny, right? How much can they really need?

A lot, actually. These dogs are full of energy and love to move, whether it’s running around the house or taking brisk walks outside.

Why It Works
Regular exercise is crucial for a Yorkie’s physical and mental well-being. Without enough stimulation, they can become bored, anxious, and potentially destructive. If you let them just lounge all day, expect a lot of chewing, barking, or digging.

How to Apply It

• Daily walks: Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your Yorkie’s age and health.
• Playtime: Engage them with toys they can chase, fetch, or tug.
• Mental stimulation: Interactive toys or training sessions also count as “exercise” for their brains.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Don’t skip the walk, even on rainy days—Yorkies love to splash in puddles!
Optional Variation: For a lazy day, hide their favorite treats around the house to get them moving.

2. Overfeeding Them

Yorkies may look like little beggars when it comes to food, but it’s easy to make the mistake of overfeeding them, especially when they give you those sad puppy eyes. They may be small, but they still need a balanced diet, and overfeeding can lead to obesity, which in turn can cause joint and heart issues.

Why It Works
Feeding the right portions ensures they stay at a healthy weight. Remember, portion control is key to a Yorkie’s longevity and comfort. No matter how tempting, avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps.

How to Apply It

• Stick to the recommended serving size on the dog food packaging.
• Use a measuring cup to avoid guesswork.
• Keep treats to a minimum—use them for training, not as a constant snack.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Use food puzzles to slow down fast eaters.
Optional Variation: Opt for high-quality food that’s appropriate for their age and energy level.

3. Ignoring Their Coat Care

Yorkies have long, beautiful coats that can get tangled and matted if not properly cared for. While it’s tempting to skip grooming, you’ll regret it once those tangles start forming.

Why It Works
Regular grooming prevents matting and keeps their fur shiny and healthy. Plus, Yorkies can’t help shedding—sometimes their hair will end up everywhere, including your couch or bed.

How to Apply It

• Brush them at least 3-4 times a week to remove tangles.
• Invest in a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat smooth.
• Trim their hair every few weeks, especially around their face and paws.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Use a detangling spray for smoother grooming sessions.
Optional Variation: If you’re short on time, consider a professional groomer who knows Yorkie coats well.

4. Neglecting Their Dental Health

As cute as they are, Yorkies are prone to dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It’s easy to overlook their teeth because they’re small, but their mouths can get pretty bad without regular care.

Why It Works
Dental health is often the first thing that goes unnoticed, but it impacts their overall health. Bad teeth can lead to infection and even affect their heart and liver if left untreated.

How to Apply It

• Brush their teeth regularly with a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Consider dental chews or toys that help reduce plaque.
• Schedule annual vet checkups to keep tabs on their oral health.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Start brushing when they’re a puppy, so they get used to it.
Optional Variation: If brushing is a no-go, look for vet-approved dental wipes.

5. Not Socializing Them Early Enough

Yorkies can be a bit territorial, which means they might bark or act standoffish around new people or other dogs. If they aren’t properly socialized, they might become fearful or aggressive toward strangers.

Why It Works
Proper socialization at an early age ensures your Yorkie grows up well-adjusted and confident. It helps them learn that the world isn’t so scary after all.

How to Apply It

• Expose them to different environments, people, and animals from a young age.
• Take them to puppy classes or arrange playdates with other dogs.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward them with treats for calm behavior.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Socialization doesn’t have to be a formal event—let them meet neighbors or other dogs during your walks.
Optional Variation: If adopting an older Yorkie, take it slow and be patient.

6. Letting Them Rule the Roost

Yorkies are small, but they can have a big attitude. This can easily lead to behavior problems if you allow them to think they’re in charge. Don’t let their size fool you—they still need boundaries.

Why It Works
Setting rules early helps ensure they don’t become spoiled or develop dominance behaviors. They thrive when they know what’s expected of them.

How to Apply It

• Establish consistent rules for behavior (e.g., no jumping on furniture or excessive barking).
• Be firm, but gentle when correcting them.
• Always use positive reinforcement for good behavior.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Crate training can help establish boundaries and give them a safe space.
Optional Variation: Enroll in obedience classes to get the basics down.

7. Not Keeping Them Mentally Stimulated

As much as they love playtime, Yorkies are also clever little creatures that need mental challenges to keep them from getting bored. Without stimulation, they can become destructive or anxious.

Why It Works
Mental stimulation isn’t just about keeping them entertained—it also helps them grow and learn. It keeps their minds sharp and prevents undesirable behavior.

How to Apply It

• Use puzzle toys to keep their brains busy.
• Teach them new tricks or commands.
• Rotate their toys so they don’t get bored with the same ones.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Use treats to keep them engaged during training.
Optional Variation: Hide treats around the house for a fun scavenger hunt.

8. Leaving Them Alone Too Much

Yorkies are incredibly social and tend to form strong bonds with their owners. Leaving them alone for extended periods can cause anxiety, and they might even start showing destructive behaviors as a result.

Why It Works
Yorkies thrive when they feel connected to their family. If they’re isolated, they might develop separation anxiety, which can be stressful for both you and them.

How to Apply It

• Try not to leave them alone for more than a few hours at a time.
• If you must leave them, provide them with toys or treats to keep them occupied.
• Consider having a dog sitter or neighbor check in on them if you’re gone for long stretches.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Try crate training to give them a safe space while you’re away.
Optional Variation: If possible, consider getting a second Yorkie to keep them company.

9. Not Addressing Their Barking Early

Yorkies are known for their vocal nature, but if you don’t address it early, you might end up with a dog that barks excessively, especially at strangers or even just random noises.

Why It Works
While barking is natural for Yorkies, allowing them to bark uncontrollably can become frustrating for both you and your neighbors. Training early on helps avoid bad habits.

How to Apply It

• Train them to respond to commands like “quiet” or “enough.”
• Use positive reinforcement when they stop barking on command.
• Redirect their attention to a toy or activity when they start barking unnecessarily.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Try a no-bark collar if they have trouble calming down.
Optional Variation: If your Yorkie barks a lot while you’re gone, provide background noise like a TV or radio.

10. Not Seeing the Vet Regularly

Lastly, not keeping up with regular vet visits is a huge mistake Yorkie owners often make. Yorkies, like all small dogs, are prone to certain health conditions, and neglecting regular checkups can lead to preventable problems down the road.

Why It Works
Regular vet visits catch health issues early and ensure your Yorkie stays happy and healthy for years. They can also guide you on the best diet, exercise, and grooming routines for your dog.

How to Apply It

• Schedule checkups at least once a year (or more often if your dog is older).
• Keep track of vaccinations and flea/tick treatments.
• Monitor for early signs of common issues like dental problems or joint issues.

Tips & Variations
Quick Tip: Regular vet visits also help build a positive relationship with your Yorkie and the vet.
Optional Variation: If you notice anything off about their health, don’t wait—get them checked ASAP.

Final Thoughts

Owning a Yorkie is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own unique set of challenges. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll have a healthier, happier Yorkie—and a smoother experience as a pet parent.

So, take a breath, learn from others’ mistakes, and enjoy the journey of raising your little furball.