Best Dog Crate for Yorkshire Terrier

📅 Last updated: September 26, 2026

A Yorkshire Terrier fits almost anywhere, which makes choosing a crate seem easy. It is not quite that simple. A crate that is too large undermines house training, a notorious challenge with Yorkies. Wire spacing designed for bigger dogs can trap a tiny paw or jaw. And a crate that feels exposed can make an alert, vocal terrier bark at every sound. This guide explains how to choose the best dog crate for a Yorkshire Terrier, what size works, which crate types suit a toy breed, and how to set things up for calm rest and faster house training.

Yorkie size and crate needs

Adult Yorkies usually weigh 4-7 lb and stand 7-8 inches tall at the shoulder, with a body length of roughly 9-12 inches. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while standing and add 2-4 inches for crate length; measure sitting height and add 2-4 inches for crate height.

Petmate Dog Crate for Small Dogs and Cat Carrier, 24in, Pearl Tan

Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Yorkshire Terrier' because the listing specifies 24in and Pearl Tan, details this guide uses to compare options.

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Homey Pet 24 Inch Puppy Crates for Small Dogs, Up to 25 lbs, White

Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Yorkshire Terrier' because the listing specifies Up to 25 lbs and White, details this guide uses to compare options.

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Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel, 24in, for Pets 15-20lbs

Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Yorkshire Terrier' because the listing specifies 24in and for Pets 15-20lbs, details this guide uses to compare options.

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AKC Soft-Sided Dog Travel Crate, Folding Portable Kennel, Small

Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Yorkshire Terrier' because the listing specifies Folding Portable Kennel and Small, details this guide uses to compare options.

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Crate types compared

See also: How to Pick a Heating Pad for an Arthritic Senior Dog • How to Transition a Picky Cat to a New Food

Small wire crates

Wire crates offer visibility and airflow and usually fold for storage. For Yorkies, check that the wire spacing is narrow, ideally under about 1 inch, so paws and jaws cannot get caught. Many owners drape a cover over part of the crate to create a cozier den.

Plastic kennels

Enclosed plastic kennels feel secure and block drafts, which suits small dogs that get cold easily. They are also standard for air travel in the cargo hold, though many Yorkies travel in-cabin in soft carriers instead.

Soft-sided crates and carriers

Lightweight and portable, excellent for travel, visits, and in-cabin flights. Many adult Yorkies that are not chewers do well in them at home, too. Avoid them for puppies who may chew mesh.

Playpens

For longer periods when you are out, an exercise pen with a crate or bed at one end and a potty pad at the other gives a Yorkie space without free run of the house.

Features that matter for Yorkies

• Narrow wire spacing to prevent paw and jaw entrapment.
• A solid, easy-clean floor tray for accidents.
• A secure latch; tiny dogs can squeeze through gaps in a poorly closed door.
• Draft protection, since Yorkies have a single coat and feel cold easily.
• Light weight and portability so the crate can move from room to room.

Crate training a Yorkie

1. Keep the space small for puppies. A crate that is too large allows a toilet corner.
2. Take frequent potty breaks. Toy puppies have tiny bladders; plan on outings every 1-2 hours during the day at first.
3. Add a soft, washable blanket for warmth; Yorkies love to burrow.
4. Feed small meals in the crate to build positive associations.
5. Place the crate near family activity, away from drafts and direct sun.
6. Keep durations short: a few hours at most for adults during the day, less for puppies.

Why Yorkies are harder to house train

Small bladders, a stubborn terrier streak, and the fact that tiny accidents are easy to miss all slow house training. A correctly sized crate is one of the most useful tools, because most dogs avoid soiling their sleeping space. Combine it with a regular schedule and rewards immediately after outdoor potty success.

Common mistakes

• Buying a crate that is too big. It undermines house training.
• Using wide wire spacing. Can injure tiny paws.
• Placing the crate in a drafty spot. Yorkies chill quickly.
• Crating for too long. Toy dogs need frequent potty breaks.
• Responding to barking by opening the door. Wait for a moment of quiet first.

FAQ

What size crate should I get for a Yorkie?

Most adult Yorkies fit an 18-24 inch crate. A 24-inch crate with a divider can take a puppy all the way to adulthood.

Is a soft-sided crate safe for a Yorkie at home?

For calm adults who do not chew, yes. For puppies and chewers, choose a wire or plastic crate instead.

Bottom line

The best crate for a Yorkshire Terrier is a small 18-24 inch crate with narrow wire spacing or enclosed sides, a secure latch, and a warm, washable blanket inside, placed away from drafts. Keep it cozy and correctly sized, use it consistently for house training, and add a soft carrier for travel. Your Yorkie gets a secure den, and you get a faster path to reliable house manners.

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