07/09/2025
🐾 Leash Training a Yorkie with a Harness (Not a Collar)
Why It Matters:
Yorkies have delicate tracheas that can be easily damaged by pulling on a collar. Leash training with a harness ensures safety and comfort while teaching proper walking behavior. A well-trained Yorkie on leash makes outings more enjoyable for both of you.
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Step-by-Step How-To:
1. Choose a Soft, Adjustable Harness
Find a harness made for toy breeds. It should fit snugly without restricting movement.
2. Let Your Puppy Get Used to It
Allow your Yorkie to sniff the harness and wear it around the house for short periods before attaching the leash.
3. Start Indoors
Attach the leash and walk around a room with no distractions. Use treats to reward following you.
4. Discourage Pulling
Stop walking if your Yorkie pulls. Resume only when the leash slackens. This teaches that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go.
5. Gradually Move Outdoors
Practice in your yard, then a quiet sidewalk. Increase distractions only once your pup walks calmly indoors.
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Tips + Troubleshooting:
• 🟢 Pro Tip: Use short training walks instead of long strolls until your puppy masters loose-leash walking.
• 🛑 Common Mistake: Jerking the leash or using retractables too early—they encourage pulling.
• 🦴 Reward Idea: Reward frequently for walking beside you. This reinforces heel behavior from the start.
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📌 Bottom Line:
Leash training is about communication and control. With patience and the right tools, your Yorkie will strut confidently at your side—without damaging their tiny throat.