Dog Crate for Small Dogs — The Best Crates for Your Yorkie
Dog crates are becoming more and more popular among Yorkie owners. Some people may see them as cruel, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. A crate gives your Yorkie a safe, den-like space they can call their own — a place to sleep, relax, and feel secure.
All dogs, especially younger ones, are naturally curious and very likely to chew their way through most household objects. A crate solves this problem while keeping your Yorkie safe when you can’t supervise them directly.
Best Dog Crates for Yorkies
Here are our top picks for dog crates that suit a Yorkshire Terrier’s size and needs:
1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate — Best Overall
The iCrate is a top-rated wire crate that comes in multiple sizes, including the perfect fit for Yorkies. It folds flat for storage, includes a divider panel so you can adjust the space as your puppy grows, and has a double-door design for easy access. The divider is especially useful for crate training — it prevents your Yorkie from using one corner as a toilet.
2. EliteField 3-Door Folding Crate — Best for Travel
This soft-sided crate is lightweight, portable, and comes in small sizes perfect for Yorkies. It has three doors for easy access, mesh windows for ventilation, and folds flat into a carry bag. Great for trips to the vet, holidays, or visiting family. The padded interior also doubles as a comfortable sleeping area.
3. Petmate Two Door Top Load Kennel — Best for Air Travel
If you plan to fly with your Yorkie, this airline-approved plastic kennel is the one to get. It’s sturdy, well-ventilated, and meets most airline cargo requirements. The top-loading door makes it easy to place your Yorkie inside without stressing them out.
4. Dog Crate Cover — For a Cosy Den Feel
Yorkies love dark, den-like spaces. A crate cover helps your dog feel more secure and can reduce anxiety. It also blocks drafts and helps your Yorkie sleep better by keeping the crate dim and quiet.
5. Dog Crate Pad — Comfortable Flooring
Wire crate floors can be hard on your Yorkie’s joints. A plush crate pad adds comfort and warmth. Look for one that is machine washable and fits the size of your crate.
Why Use a Crate for Your Yorkie?
Dog crates are very similar to cages — this is true — but they can quickly become a dog’s favourite place. This is very easy to achieve, and by doing so you will have eliminated a number of problems that you may have encountered had you not bought the crate.
I can safely say, from personal experience, that I lost a number of socks, hats, shoes and schoolwork when I was younger because my dog was still very young and mischievous.
If I had bought a crate then, I probably would not have lost so many items.
A dog crate has many uses — not only as a place where your dog can sleep in supreme comfort but also as a tool in the potty training process.
Choosing the Right Size Crate for Your Yorkie
When you are thinking of buying a crate, you should get one that suits your dog’s size. It should allow your Yorkie to turn around, lie down, and move comfortably. It should not, under any circumstances, allow your dog the opportunity to eliminate in one corner and then have ample room on the other side to sleep.
For most Yorkshire Terriers, a crate measuring around 22 to 24 inches in length is ideal. If you have a teacup Yorkie, an 18-inch crate may be more suitable.
Crate Training Tips for Yorkies
Introduce the crate gradually. Start by leaving the door open and placing treats, toys, and soft bedding inside. Let your Yorkie explore at their own pace. Once they are comfortable going inside on their own, you can begin closing the door for short periods.
Here are a few key tips:
- Never use the crate as a punishment — it should always be a positive space
- Give praise and treats every time your Yorkie goes inside
- Start with short sessions (5–10 minutes) and gradually increase
- Always remove collars before leaving your dog in a crate
- Place the crate in a quiet, family area — not isolated away
If you need more information on crate training or help with any other aspect of training, check out our complete Yorkshire Terrier training guide written specifically with Yorkies in mind!
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