How Much Exercise Does a Yorkshire Terrier Need?

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Yorkies are often thought of as a royal and refined breed; however, they also have a more boisterous and athletic side. These tiny canines may require more exercise than a typical toy breed. So, how much exercise does a Yorkshire terrier need?.

How Much Exercise Does a Yorkshire Terrier Need?

Yorkies need moderate exercise, such as two 20-minute walks per day and frequent short bursts of movement, to stay healthy and happy. These walks should be taken at a quick, consistent pace so that the dog is constantly moving and not out of breath. 

Little boy showing the ball to his Yorkshire Terrier for his play and exercise

Most dogs prefer a routine, so if you walk at the same time every day, you’ll have a greater chance of persuading your dog to cooperate. If you can’t go for two walks a day, at least one longer stroll of at least 30 minutes will do.

Types of Yorkie Exercise

Due to their incredible energy and intelligence, failure to provide enough physical and mental stimulation, results in behavior issues such as nuisance barking and destructive behavior; Yorkies ought to bark because they are natural guard dogs.

Daily exercise gives mental stimulation through the senses of sight, smell, sound, and movement. 

Exercise will also assist your Yorkie in releasing pent-up energy, maintaining muscles, keeping the heart healthy, keeping the metabolism running smoothly, and allowing them to become used to people and establish a necessary routine like outdoor potty training.

There are three main types of exercise for your Yorkie that you should provide.

  • Moderate exercise: Walking at a quick pace that is comfortable for Yorkies and not so fast that they pant, is exercising moderately. This exercise can be 25 to 30 minutes of walking on a leash or free exploring off the leash in the park. This amount of exercise for dogs will already keep them healthy and active.
  • High-intensity exercise: The Yorkie, a ratting dog, is highly athletic and can turn on a dime, accelerate, and respond quickly. Games that require these capabilities are a fun way to keep your Yorkie active. Flirt pole, fetch, frisbee toss, and backyard agility are just a few of them.
  • Mental stimulation: All dogs require intellectual stimulation. If they are not allowed to broaden their minds, they will devise their methods to do so. Excessive barking, digging, fleeing, and other disruptive actions are typical manifestations of this.
Little boy and Yorkie jumping at a small flight of stairs

Precautions to Take When Exercising Your Yorkie

While taking your dog for a walk or exercise, there are some aspects to consider. These measures will ensure your safety as well as the safety of your Yorkie.

Use a Dog Harness

Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with necks that are delicate, making them vulnerable to a condition known as a collapsed trachea. When you walk your dog on a harness instead of a collar, the pressure is taken off their trachea and placed on their trunk, which is considerably stronger.

Harnesses are also helpful because they come with a range of qualities, such as reflective material, the ability to double as a car harness, warmth in cold weather, no-pull training, and more.

Use Reflective Materials & Lighting

If you want to take your dog outside at night, reflective materials for the dog’s harness, collar, and leash are a good idea. A flashlight to alert others of your presence is also helpful. It will be beneficial for drivers to be able to see you and your dog.

Maintain Safety Off-Leash

Yorkshire Terriers like off-leash exercise, even though they don’t always have the best impulse control when they come upon a small animal. As a result, before letting your dog off the leash, make sure they’re in a fenced-in area, know how to obey commands, or aren’t in a dangerous place.

Little boy taking his Yorkshire Terrier on a walk for his daily exercise

Use Caution When Interacting With Bigger Dogs

Yorkies may get plenty of exercise by playing with other dogs. Some Yorkies get along great with large breeds such as Staffordshire Terriers, while others dislike them and feel threatened. Keep an eye on your puppy until you can see how they interact with other dogs.

Keep Your Yorkie Warm During The Winter 

Before taking your dog outside on a cold winter day, take precautions to ensure it is warm enough and shielded from the elements. Yorkies have only one hair coat and are prone to get chilled. If you need a coat, chances are your dog does as well.

Related Questions

How Often Should You Take a Yorkie Out?

Your adult Yorkie should be taken for a stroll at least once every 8 hours in an ideal world. However, most individuals cannot exercise their dogs at least once every eight hours due to various factors.

Do Yorkies Get Cold on Walks?

Yes, Yorkies get cold on walks. Unlike several other breeds, Yorkies can quickly become cold when the weather becomes cold since they have only one hair coat. 

Final Thoughts

Your Yorkie relies on you to make sure it is adequately exercised. Proper exercise will assist in maintaining their weight, and extending the life of your Yorkie and the amount of bonding time you both have. Yorkie life expectancy is 12.5 to 14.5 years and this can be improved by adequate exercise.