Must-Have Products for Tiny Yorkies(Little Pups, Big Wins)
1. Dog Sling Bag: Safety and Convenience on the Go
The big issue:
Yorkshire Terriers are true companion dogs, happiest when they’re close to their people. But with most pet Yorkies being under 8 lbs., their tiny bodies can tire out fast; especially on long walks or busy outings. Their small size also puts them at higher risk in crowded places, where they can be stepped on, jostled, or feel overwhelmed by all the commotion at ground level. Even something as simple as crossing a busy parking lot or waiting in line at a pet store can be risky when you're so little.
How a sling bag can help little dogs:
A well-designed sling carrier like the the cute Reversible Dog Carrier Sling Bag by Arzqut can keep your Yorkie safe, secure, and close to your chest; exactly where they want to be. It allows you to bring them along without overexerting their little legs or exposing them to dangers on the ground. Many sling bags are padded for comfort and include built-in clips to attach to a harness, preventing accidental leaps. They’re especially handy for vet visits, farmer’s markets, travel days, or multitasking walks when your pup may only want to be on the ground for part of the outing.
This simple accessory can help reduce stress, improve safety, and let your Yorkie feel like part of the action while still getting the protection their tiny body needs.
Extra tip: Look for a crossbody sling with wide straps to avoid shoulder strain. Yorkies typically fit comfortably in small-size bags rated for dogs under 15 lbs.
2. Grippy Paw Wax: Better Traction, Fewer Slips
The big issue:
Yorkshire Terriers, like many toy breeds, are so lightweight that their paw pads make less consistent contact with the ground, reducing traction compared to heavier dogs. This means they have less natural grip, making it easier for them to slip on smooth surfaces. Add in icy winter sidewalks, or zoomies across hardwood floors, and suddenly your little pup is sliding more than striding.
How paw wax helps tiny dogs:
A high-quality grippy paw wax can create a natural, safe barrier on the paw pads that gives your Yorkie better traction indoors and out. The added grip helps prevent falls and builds a dog’s confidence. One like Musher’s Secret Paw Wax, our absolute fav, is also useful for older Yorkies with joint issues, puppies learning how to confidently move across slick surfaces, or dogs of any age that have dry paw skin. It takes just a few minutes to apply and absorbs quickly; just rub it in, give it a moment to dry, and your Yorkie is good to go. This is normally applied 2 to 3 times a week, year-round.
Extra tip: The best time to apply a grippy paw wax is when your Yorkie is resting, such as right before a nap or in the evening. This allows it to absorb properly without being wiped off.
3. Grass Mats: A Weather-Smart Potty Solution for Toy Breeds
The big issue:
Yorkshire Terriers may hesitate to go outside in rain, snow, or cold weather, and they’re not wrong. With their tiny frames, low body fat, and thin coats of hair, even a quick trip outdoors can feel harsh and uncomfortable. Wet paws, icy surfaces, and frigid wind can be overwhelming, for this breed. For some Yorkies, just stepping into cold grass can cause them to freeze up, literally and figuratively.
But relying 100% on pee pads or trying to potty-train indoors without a clear system can lead to confusion and inconsistency. Some dogs struggle to understand where it's okay to go, especially when the surface keeps changing.
How grass mats can help small dogs:
A real or synthetic grass mat can bridge the gap. It gives your Yorkie a designated potty spot that mimics the texture and scent of outdoor grass but without the cold, wind, or rain. This can be especially helpful for apartment living, urban settings, or senior Yorkies with limited mobility.
If your pup is picky and only goes on real grass, and if your budget can afford the renewals (every 1 to 4 weeks), a live grass mat like the Real Grass Patch by the Fresh Patch Store may be a good choice. These are natural and disposable, making cleanup simple and appealing to dogs with outdoor habits.
For a more permanent solution, a reusable faux-grass mat such as the Dog Grass Pad by UUpet may work; these are washable and clip to an included tray. Place it near a door, on a balcony, or in a garage to create a low-stress potty routine your Yorkie can count on, even in bad weather.
Bonus tip: To help your Yorkie adjust to a grass mat, try putting them on their leash and harness to head over to it, just like you would for a walk or a trip to the yard. This mimics their usual potty routine and creates a stronger mental connection. Be sure to use a consistent cue like “go potty” to reinforce the behavior.
4. Water Bowl Fountain: Keep That Hydration Flowing
The big issue:
Many small dogs, especially Yorkshire Terriers, don’t take in enough water throughout the day. This can be due to a naturally low thirst drive, small food portions (which provide less moisture), or even picky preferences about how and where their water is offered. Some Yorkies are also sensitive to stale or warm water, or may avoid drinking if their bowl isn’t clean. Over time, mild dehydration can contribute to urinary tract problems, kidney strain, and dry skin.
How a fountain can help little dogs:
Dogs are instinctively drawn to the sound and motion of flowing water. In nature, moving streams often signal freshness and safety, unlike stagnant puddles that may carry bacteria. At home, this same instinct can be used to your advantage.
Pet water fountains create a gentle, bubbling flow that many dogs find more inviting than still water in a bowl. For Yorkshire Terriers who may have a low thirst drive, this added stimulation can help boost daily hydration, supporting better digestion, kidney function, and skin health.
For small dogs like the Yorkie, a cat-sized fountain like the Indoor Automatic Pet Fountains by Hooise can be the perfect fit; it’s low to the ground, quiet, and easy to clean, with a basin depth that's just right for their tiny faces. As an added plus, it has a 3-stage filtration system. It’s a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in encouraging healthier hydration habits.
Extra tip: Place your Yorkie’s water fountain in a quiet, low-traffic area where they won’t feel startled or rushed while drinking. Avoid high foot-traffic zones close to kitchen doors or near noisy appliances. Yorkies tend to drink more when they feel safe and undisturbed.
5. Calming Aromatherapy Spray: Instant Zen for Anxious Yorkies
The big issue:
Yorkshire Terriers are fiercely loyal companion dogs who often form deep, exclusive bonds with their people. While this makes them wonderfully affectionate, it also means they can be highly sensitive to change. Car rides, vet visits, grooming appointments, loud noises, or even being left alone can trigger stress behaviors like pacing, barking, or trembling. And because Yorkies are so small, their bodies also process adrenaline quickly, which can make calming them down more challenging once anxiety kicks in.
How aromatherapy can help tiny dogs:
A calming spray infused with certain gentle essential oils can help ease your Yorkie’s nervous system before stress levels rise too high. One that we like, Bodhi Dog Calming Spray, contains lavender, chamomile, and geranium: three oils widely used in pet aromatherapy. Lavender and chamomile help soothe the nervous system and promote a sense of calm, while geranium is known for emotional balancing effects, especially helpful for clingy or high-alert breeds like the Yorkie.
Mist it lightly on your Yorkie’s bedding, harness, or car seat before triggering events. You can also spray it on your hands and gently rub over their neck and chest (just not the face). Most formulas like this can take effect within a few minutes, and can be used as part of a calming routine before high-stress moments.
Extra tip: Test the spray in a quiet, calm moment to make sure your Yorkie likes the scent and doesn’t show signs of aversion. Start small; sometimes less is more when it comes to sensitive toy breeds.
6. Dental Wipes: Keep Their Tiny Teeth Healthier (Without the Struggle)
The big issue:
Dental disease is one of the most common (and preventable) health problems in toy breeds, especially Yorkshire Terriers. Their petite jaws often lead to overcrowded teeth, which trap food particles and make it harder for natural chewing to keep teeth clean. This results in rapid tartar buildup, inflamed gums, bad breath, and painful infections. Left unchecked, oral bacteria can even enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver; a serious risk for small dogs with fast metabolisms and delicate systems.
How dental wipes can help small dogs:
Daily brushing is ideal, but many Yorkies dislike having a toothbrush in their mouths. But, certain dental wipes can offer a gentler, easier alternative. For example, Nootie Medicated Dental Wipes for Dogs are a quick, mess-free way to reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support gum health, especially for small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers that are prone to dental problems. These wipes contain chlorhexidine gluconate, a veterinary-trusted antimicrobial agent that helps kill the bacteria responsible for bad breath and periodontal disease.
Extra tip:
Begin with short, low-pressure sessions and gradually build up. Wipe just the front teeth at first, then move to the sides as your Yorkie gets more comfortable. Be sure to give praise throughout. Even 3 to 4 times a week can help maintain healthier teeth. Pair this with a dental chew for optimal dental hygiene.
7. Tiny Harness, Big Protection: Prevent Tracheal Collapse
The big issue:
The Yorkshire Terriers is highly prone to tracheal collapse, a condition where the cartilage in the windpipe weakens, causing the airway to narrow. One of the most common triggers? Pressure on the neck from traditional collars, especially during pulling, tugging, or even just excited leash walking. For Yorkies with already narrow airways, even light strain can lead to chronic coughing, gagging, and long-term damage.
Why a harness is a must for this toy-breed dog:
A well-fitted harness vest shifts pressure away from the throat and distributes it safely across the chest, back, and shoulders. Soft, padded designs are ideal for small dogs with sensitive frames, offering both comfort and control. They also reduce the risk of escape; Yorkies are surprisingly good at backing out of loose gear. One that we love is the Eco Bark Mesh Harness which starts at size extra-extra small and goes up from there, to fit any Yorkshire Terrier. It’s secure, well-made, comes in lots of colors, and has a secure double-D rings.
Extra tip: Check the fit of your Yorkie’s harness regularly, especially if you have a growing puppy. It should be snug but not tight, with no rubbing or pinching around the chest or underarms. Over time, even high-quality harnesses can stretch, fray, or lose stitching, especially at the seams and buckles. Watch for signs of wear and replace it as needed to ensure both comfort and safety every time you clip in.
Final Thoughts: Big Wins for Little Dogs
When it comes to small dogs like the Yorkshire Terrier, even the tiniest upgrades to your daily routine can make a big difference. From preventing dental disease and protecting sensitive skin to easing anxiety and encouraging hydration, each product on this list solves a real need, fast.
Yorkies are compact, delicate, and incredibly bonded to their humans, which means they count on us to keep them safe, comfortable, and thriving. Whether it’s a harness that protects their fragile airway or a calming spray that helps settle their nerves, these aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re thoughtful solutions made for little guys and gals.
After all, small dogs deserve big care. And with the right tools, it's easier than ever to give it to them.
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