Choosing the right crate for your Yorkshire Terrier is crucial for their safety and well-being.
Yorkshire Terriers are naturally curious and love to explore, which is why a sturdy crate with secure latches is essential.
A crate that's too large can lead to accidents, so it's essential to choose one that's specifically designed for small breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier.
Look for a crate with a compact size, around 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 20 inches tall, to provide your Yorkie with a comfortable and secure space.
Quick Facts
The Yorkshire Terrier crate is a must-have for any Yorkie owner. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1885.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when choosing the right crate for your Yorkie:
- Lifespan: 13-16 years
- Size: Small
- Energy: Medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 18”-22"
Yorkies are known for their loyalty and bond strongly with family members, making them great companions.
Benefits of Crating
Crating your Yorkshire Terrier can provide a sense of stability and independence, which is especially helpful when you need to leave them at home alone.
Yorkies are sensitive and emotional dogs, so crating them can help prevent dominance or violence when they're upset or angry.
Crate training can also help with housebreaking, as Yorkies tend to dislike making messes indoors and will avoid doing so if they know they'll be in the crate for a while.
In fact, being crate trained will help your Yorkie understand that doing their business indoors is not right, as they won't want to sleep in a mess they've made.
Leaving a Yorkie home alone for hours can be intimidating for them, but crating them with their favorite toys, blankets, or your scent can provide a sense of security.
Crating is not considered abuse or neglect, but rather a safe and comfortable space for your Yorkie to relax and collect themselves.
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Choosing a Crate
Choosing a crate for your Yorkshire terrier is a crucial step in crate training. Pet Crates Direct recommends 18” to 22” dog crates for most adult Yorkshire terriers.
Your Yorkie should be able to lie down, stretch, stand up, turn around, and move around comfortably in their crate. If the crate is too small, they will be irritable and uncomfortable.
A well-ventilated and temperature-controlled crate is essential for your Yorkie's comfort. This means choosing a crate with suitable ventilation and temperature control to prevent overheating or cold temperatures.
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Choosing a Size
Choosing the right size crate for your Yorkie is crucial for their comfort and safety.
A too-small kennel can be uncomfortable and cause your pup to feel cramped.
For most Yorkies, a 22-inch to 24-inch size will work best.
Pet Crates Direct recommends 18” to 22” dog crates for most adult Yorkshire terriers.
Your Yorkie should be able to lie down, stretch, stand up, turn around, etc. in their crate for comfort and safety.
It is very important to avoid getting anything that is too large, as your dog may not feel safe or secure in it and may decide to use the bathroom inside it if there is enough room.
Measure your pet from his nose to the base of his tail, then add three to four inches of extra space to determine the correct size.
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What Should Be Provided?
When you're setting up a crate for your dog, it's essential to provide the right supplies to make their time in there comfortable and enjoyable. Bedding is a must-have, and it's best to use a chunkier, non-stuffed bed that's waterproof for easy clean-ups.
A crate can be a boring and stressful place for a dog to spend hours, but toys can help alleviate that. Choose toys that aren't delicate or stuffed, as they can be a choking hazard.
Providing food and water bowls that can be secured to the crate door is a good idea, especially for dogs that need water constantly due to health reasons. Depriving them of food and water for 8 hours a day is not recommended.
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Best
Choosing the right crate for your Yorkie is crucial, and it's essential to consider their age and needs. Puppies have tiny bladders and boundless energy, so they can't be cooped up for too long.
A good rule of thumb is to crate them for an hour for every month of age, up to a maximum of 4 hours. This means if your pup is 3 months old, a 3-hour crate time should be the max.
Bedding is an essential supply needed in their crate, and it's recommended to use a chunkier, non-stuffed bed that's waterproof. This will make for easier clean-ups if they have accidents.
Toys can help make crate time more enjoyable, but they should be durable and not delicate enough for your Yorkie to chew through. It's also a good idea to provide a bowl that can be secured to the door of the crate for food and water.
Comfort is another significant consideration when choosing a crate. Look for one with suitable ventilation and temperature control to ensure your Yorkie stays comfortable.
Crate training is essential for Yorkies, and it can help reduce anxiety and stress, especially when left alone at home. It can also help prevent destructive behaviors like chewing and digging.
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Training and Commands
Crate training your Yorkie is an essential part of raising them, especially during their puppy years. It gives them a sense of stability and independence, which is very helpful during times when you need to leave them at home.
Experts recommend crate training your Yorkie, and it's a great way to keep owners from feeling like they're going crazy with a tiny Yorkie zooming around the house. Crate training helps prevent accidents and saves you from cleaning up after your pet.
Before putting your Yorkie in the crate, remember to take off their collar to prevent them from getting stuck. This is especially important when you're leaving your home.
To make the crate feel homey, add extra absorbent training potty pads, toys, and blankets that your Yorkie loves. This will help them associate the crate with a cozy and safe space.
Introduce your Yorkie to the crate by providing a command to teach them when it's time to get in. Give them treats and praise when they understand the command, and let them get used to the crate at their own pace.
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As your Yorkie gets more comfortable with the crate, start closing the door for short increments of time. This will help them learn to relax and settle in the crate, and eventually, they'll understand that it's their spot to relax.
Practice stay and settle commands to help your Yorkie understand that the crate is their spot to relax. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise to reinforce the idea.
Safety and Precautions
Your little Yorkie is curious, full of energy, and ready to explore every nook and cranny. They can get into trouble quickly, from chewing on electrical cords to getting into foods that are a no-no.
Chewing on electrical cords is a serious safety concern, and it's essential to keep them out of reach. A crate provides a safe space where your Yorkie can chill out and stay out of trouble, especially when you can't keep a watchful eye on them.
Safety Comes First
A crate provides a safe space where your Yorkie can chill out and stay out of trouble, especially when you can't keep a watchful eye on them.
Your little Yorkie is curious, full of energy, and ready to explore every nook and cranny.
Chewing on electrical cords is just one of the many potential dangers your Yorkie can get into, and it's crucial to prevent accidents like these from happening.
A crate is not meant to be an act of punishment, but rather a safe place for your Yorkie to relax and collect themselves.
My Child is Crying. What to Do?
It's normal for kids to cry, but it's essential to understand what's going on and how to approach the situation without reinforcing any negative behavior.
First, try to identify the cause of the crying. Are they in need of a bathroom break or a snack? Maybe they're feeling anxious or just need some attention.
If it's a potty alert, take them to the bathroom and then give them some space. If they're crying for attention, it's tough to resist, but try to wait for a lull in the whining before giving in.
Don't let them out while they're crying, as this can teach them that crying equals freedom.
Travel and Crate Use
Traveling with your Yorkie can be a breeze if they're crate-trained. A crate-trained Yorkie means a less stressful journey for both of you, with your furry friend traveling in a familiar, comfy spot and you getting peace of mind knowing they're safe and secure.
Using a crate is a great way to keep your Yorkie safe and secure, but there's a cozy alternative - using a Yorkie bed instead of a crate. This can be a good option if the idea of a traditional crate doesn't sit well with you or your fur baby.
If you plan to leave your Yorkie in a crate, make sure it's not for longer than 8 hours without being checked on. This is especially important for older Yorkies, who should only be kept in a crate for 4-5 hours tops.
Travel Buddy
Traveling with your Yorkie can be a breeze if you have a crate-trained companion. A crate-trained Yorkie means a less stressful journey for both of you, as they get to travel in a familiar, comfy spot.
Traveling with a crate-trained Yorkie is a great idea, especially for road trips. Your Yorkie gets to travel in a familiar, comfy spot, and you get peace of mind knowing they’re safe and secure.
If you're not a fan of traditional crates, you can consider using a Yorkie bed as a cozy alternative.
How Long Should a Stay?
When you're away from home, it's essential to consider how long your Yorkie can safely stay in a crate. Yorkies can tolerate up to 8 hours in a crate, but it's crucial to check on them periodically.
Older Yorkies, however, should only be kept in a crate for 4-5 hours at most. This is because they may not be as active or resilient as younger Yorkies.
If you know you'll be away from home for more than 8 hours, you'll need to arrange for someone to check on your Yorkie and let them outside. This will ensure they get the exercise and attention they need.
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The Complete Guide
Choosing the right crate for your Yorkshire Terrier is crucial for their safety and comfort. Consider a size that's just right for your Yorkie, not too big or too small.
To determine the right size, think about your Yorkie's adult size and current age. A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that's at least 6-8 inches taller than your Yorkie's height to allow for growth.
Your lifestyle and your Yorkie's needs will also play a significant role in choosing the right kennel. If you have a busy schedule, a crate with easy cleaning and durable materials may be a good fit.
Consider the type of kennel that suits your lifestyle, whether it's a collapsible crate for travel or a sturdy crate for home use.
A crate's materials and durability are also essential factors to consider. Look for a crate made from high-quality materials that can withstand your Yorkie's chewing and scratching.
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Adult Yorkshire Terriers
Adult Yorkshire Terriers can stay in a crate for up to 5 to 6 hours at a time, but any longer than that is not cool.
They have more bladder control than puppies, which is a plus, but it's still not fair to leave them in a crate all day long.
Yorkies are social animals that crave interaction and engagement, so it's essential to balance crate time with playtime, walks, and cuddles outside the crate.
A happy, tired Yorkie is more likely to rest peacefully in their crate without a fuss.
The crate should be a positive space, not a place of isolation, so make sure your Yorkie has a well-rounded life with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and love outside of crate time.
Anxiety and Confinement
Yorkies are known for their loyalty and love for human companionship, but crate training can help reduce separation anxiety by providing a secure and familiar environment when you're away.
If your Yorkie is experiencing anxiety, make sure the crate is a heavenly spot with a comfy bed, safe toys, and even an item of your clothing to make it feel more comforting.
A crate location that's too isolated might not be the best choice, so try placing it in a quiet, family-oriented area. Consistency and patience are key in Yorkie crate training, so stay firm but gentle in your approach.
Every pup is unique, so what works for one Yorkie might not work for another. Consider consulting with a professional dog trainer if the crying continues, as they can offer personalized advice and training techniques to help ease your Yorkie's distress.
Here's a general guideline to keep in mind: for every month of age, your pup can comfortably stay in a crate for an hour, up to a maximum of 4 hours. For example, if your 3-month-old pup is 3 hours in the crate, that's the max.
Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right crate for your Yorkshire Terrier is crucial for their comfort and safety. Look for a crate that is the right size for your Yorkie, as a crate that is too large can be overwhelming and one that is too small can be cramped.
Consider the type of kennel that best suits your lifestyle and your Yorkie's needs. A crate that is easy to assemble and disassemble can be a lifesaver for frequent travelers.
The materials used and the level of durability required are also important considerations. A durable crate made from sturdy materials can withstand the rough play and accidents that often come with having a puppy.
Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right crate for your Yorkie requires some thought. Consider the size of the crate in relation to your Yorkie's size.
A crate that's too small can be uncomfortable for your Yorkie, while one that's too large can be a waste of space. Look for a crate that's specifically designed for small breeds like the Yorkie.
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The type of kennel you choose should suit your lifestyle and your Yorkie's needs. If you're always on the go, a portable crate might be the way to go.
The materials used in the crate are also important. Look for durable materials like metal or sturdy plastic that can withstand your Yorkie's chewing and scratching.
Purpose
Before buying a kennel, it's essential to consider its purpose. Will it be your dog's main sleeping area?
You need a kennel that's large enough for your dog to be comfortable and move around in. If your pup's main sleeping area is the kennel, look at a wire or hard-sided option.
If you need the kennel for car travel, a soft-sided option might be more suitable.
Why Is Important?
Crate training is not just about having a convenient place to store your pup when you're out or too busy. It's about creating a personal, safe haven for your Yorkie.
You'll want to consider what you'll be using the crate for - will it be your pup's main sleeping area or for transporting them in the car or on a plane? This will help you choose the right type of crate for your needs.
A crate that's large enough for your dog to move around in and be comfortable is essential if it's going to be their main sleeping area. You'll also want it to be durable and fit in the space you have available at home.
If you plan on flying with your dog, you'll need an airline-approved travel carrier. Not every crate suits every purpose, so it's essential to remember why you're buying it and what it will be used for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I crate my Yorkie at night?
Crate training can provide your Yorkie with a safe and secure sleeping environment, especially if they're prone to anxiety or are still a puppy. Crating your Yorkie at night can help them feel comforted and protected, but it's essential to introduce the crate gradually and ensure it's not too small.
Sources
- Advice needed for 12-week old Yorkie Pup (digitalspy.com)
- Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart. (pet-crates-direct.myshopify.com)
- Crate Training (askyorkie.com)
- Are Yorkies Aggressive: Understanding the Temperament of Yorkshire Terriers (yorkshireterrrier.com)
- Reddit (reddit.com)
- Crate training (ucdavis.edu)
- Yorkie Crate Training 101: Making It a Fun Fortress (yorkies-gram.com)
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