I still remember the first time I took my Yorkshire Terrier, Bella, out for a walk. She was so full of energy, darting around with her tiny paws, but I quickly realized not every leash is made for Yorkies. Their small size, delicate frame, and curious nature mean they need something lightweight, safe, and comfortable. The wrong leash can feel too heavy, tug at their fragile neck, or make walks stressful for both of us.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the best leashes for small dogs. Whether you want something durable for daily walks, a stylish option for outings, or a retractable leash to give your pup more freedom, I’ll walk you through the top choices that actually work for Yorkies.
| Quick Look:For my Yorkie, I’ve found that the right leash makes all the difference. The UrbanX Retractable Leash gives her freedom to explore, while the Wellbro Leather Dog Leash keeps walks simple and secure. On days I want her looking extra cute, I go with the Animal Den Yorkie Collar & Leash. |
Comparison Table for Best Leash for Yorkshire Terriers
1.UrbanX Retractable Dog Leash – Blue
I tried the UrbanX Retractable Leash with my Yorkie, and honestly, it surprised me. It feels lightweight in my hand yet sturdy enough for daily walks. The 10-foot nylon tape gives my pup freedom without pulling, and I can pause or lock it instantly with my thumb. The anti-slip handle fits snugly, making even 30-minute walks comfortable. For a leash this light, I didn’t expect it to handle up to 30 lbs so smoothly.
Features
- 10 ft retractable nylon tape, chew and bite resistant.
- Handles dogs up to 30 lbs, perfect for Yorkies and other toy breeds.
- Tangle-free 360° movement for smooth walking.
- One-handed brake, pause, and lock system.
- Lightweight design with ergonomic anti-slip handle.
What works?
I love how lightweight it feels—I can even slip it into my pocket when not in use. The quick lock feature makes it easy to stop my Yorkie from darting off. The handle feels soft and steady, even during longer 20–30 minute walks.
What does not work?
The leash length maxes out at 10 ft, which can feel short if you’re in a big open park. The nylon tape is sturdy but not chew-proof if a pup really goes at it. I also noticed it’s best suited for smaller breeds under 30 lbs, so it won’t work for bigger dogs.
Who should buy this?
If you own a Yorkshire Terrier or any small dog under 30 lbs, this leash is a great pick. It’s perfect if you want a retractable design that’s simple and reliable. I’d recommend it most for city walks, daily strolls, and quick trips where you need convenience.
2.Wellbro Genuine Leather Dog Leash, 6Ft Super Thin and Lightweight
I’ve personally used the Wellbro Genuine Leather Dog Leash with my Yorkie, and it feels like it was made for tiny pups. At 6 ft long and just 0.25″ wide, it’s super slim and lightweight, so it never feels bulky in my hand. The genuine leather with reinforced stitching gives it a premium look without being heavy. Plus, the soft handle makes longer walks a lot more comfortable than nylon leashes I’ve tried before. This leash quickly became one of my go-to choices for daily walks.
Features
- 6 ft length, 0.25″ wide, perfect for dogs under 15 lb
- Made from 100% genuine leather with reinforced stitching
- Soft, comfortable grip with sturdy rustproof copper alloy clasp
- Lightweight and easy to roll up for storage or pocket carry
What works?
I really like how lightweight it feels, which makes a big difference when walking a 7 lb Yorkie. The leather softens up nicely after a few uses, so it feels more natural in my hand. The clasp is sturdy, and I’ve never worried about it coming loose during walks.
What does not work?
This leash isn’t chew-proof, so if your pup likes to nibble, you’ll need to watch out. Since it’s designed for small dogs under 15 lb, it’s not strong enough for larger or heavy pullers. The Best Leather Dog Leashes can feel a bit stiff right out of the box, though it loosens up over time.
Who should buy this?
If you’ve got a Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, or any pup under 15 lb, this leash is a perfect fit. It’s especially good if you prefer lightweight leashes that won’t strain your dog’s neck. I’d recommend it to owners who want comfort and durability in a slim design.
3.Yorkshire Terrier Collar & Leash – Animal Den
I tried the Animal Den Yorkshire Terrier Collar & Leash, and honestly, it felt like it was made just for my pup. The fact that it’s breed-specific, fully adjustable, and made in the U.S.A. gave me peace of mind. The bright, colorful design instantly made my Yorkie stand out, and the snap closure kept everything secure without any hassle.
Features
- Material: Durable nylon
- Closure: Snap style for easy use
- Designed specifically for Yorkshire Terriers
- Fully adjustable & made in the U.S.A.
- Bright and colorful design
What Works?
I love how lightweight and comfortable it feels for my Yorkie, especially on longer walks. The adjustable design makes it easy to get the perfect fit, which isn’t always the case with generic leashes. The bright colors really pop, so my pup always looks stylish when we’re out.
What Does Not Work?
The Soft Dog Leash can feel a little stiff the first few uses, and I had to soften it up over time. It’s also not chew-proof, so I wouldn’t leave my Yorkie unattended with it. If your dog is a strong puller, this leash might feel a bit light compared to heavier-duty options.
Who Should Buy This?
If you want a leash that’s actually designed for Yorkies instead of a one-size-fits-all option, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for owners who like bright, fun designs without sacrificing safety. I’d recommend it for anyone who takes their Yorkie on regular walks and wants both comfort and style.
4.Dosuyi Dog Slip Lead for Small Dogs (Yorkshire Terriers & Chihuahuas)
I tried the Dosuyi slip lead with my Yorkie, and honestly, it felt like a lightweight but sturdy option for quick walks and training. At just 2 oz, it doesn’t weigh my pup down, and the 5.9 ft length gives just the right balance of control and freedom. I liked that it combines leash + collar in one piece, so I didn’t have to clip on extra gear. With 8 bright colors to choose from, it also adds a fun pop of style to walks.
Features
- Length: 5.9 ft / 70 inches, width 0.24 inches
- Ultra-lightweight at 2 oz, ideal for dogs under 15 lb
- Nylon rope design, strong yet flexible
- Built-in adjustable collar (leash + collar in one)
- Available in 8 colors: purple, rose, green, orange, blue, fluorescent green, light purple, and more
What Works?
I found the lightweight feel makes it perfect for Yorkies, especially since it doesn’t strain their tiny necks. The no-pull training feature actually helped me correct tugging during walks without hurting my pup. Plus, the bright color choices made it easy to spot and added a fun touch.
What Does Not Work?
The rope isn’t chew-proof, so if your Yorkie is a nibbler, you’ll need to supervise. It also isn’t padded, so after longer walks, the handle feels a little rough on my hand. And since it’s made for small dogs only, it won’t hold up if you also own a bigger breed.
Who Should Buy This?
This leash is perfect if you’ve got a Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, or any small dog under 15 lb. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting a lightweight training tool that doubles as a collar. If you love switching colors, the 8 different options make it fun to match with your pup’s style.
5.CROWN PAWS 16ft Retractable Dog Leash for Large Breed Dogs up to 110 lbs
I tried the CROWN PAWS 16ft Retractable Dog Leash with my big boy, and honestly, it surprised me. At first, I thought retractables were too flimsy for large breeds, but this one holds up for dogs up to 110 lbs. The chew-proof steel wire extender adds peace of mind, and the 16-foot length gives my dog plenty of space to explore without me losing control. It feels like a solid pick that doesn’t compromise on durability.
Features
- 16ft retractable leash with chew-proof steel wire extender
- Supports dogs up to 110 lbs
- Comfortable ergonomic handle with soft grip
- 301 stainless steel coil spring braking system for fast control
- Heavy-duty nylon tape (same material as car seat belts)
What works?
I really like how smooth the 360-degree tangle-free system feels—it never jams. The chew-proof extender makes me less anxious when my dog gets playful with the leash. The braking system reacts instantly, so I feel in control even with sudden pulls.
What does not work?
The leash itself feels a little heavier than standard retractables, which might bother smaller dog owners. I noticed the handle is bulky, so it takes up space in my hand during long walks. Also, the brake button can feel stiff when wearing gloves.
Who should buy this?
I’d recommend this to anyone with a strong dog that loves freedom on walks. It’s a great fit if you’re tired of replacing chewed-through leashes. If you want a durable retractable that balances control and distance, this is worth considering.
5 Buying Guides for Best Leash for Yorkshire Terriers
1. Size and Weight Matter
When I first bought a leash for my Yorkie, I made the mistake of picking one that was way too heavy. Yorkies barely weigh 4–7 lbs on average, so even a slightly bulky leash can pull on their tiny bodies. I always stick to lightweight leashes under ½ inch thick—it keeps walks comfortable for both of us.
2. Material for Durability
I’ve tested nylon, rope, and even leather leashes, and honestly, the material makes a huge difference. Nylon works best for daily walks because it’s light and easy to clean. Leather feels classy and lasts years if you take care of it. For chewers, reinforced rope is a lifesaver. I learned this the hard way after my Yorkie chewed through a thin nylon one in just 2 days.
3. Length for Control vs Freedom
Yorkies love to explore, but they can get into trouble quickly. I prefer leashes between 4 and 6 ft for regular walks since it keeps her close and safe. If we’re in an open park, I sometimes use a retractable leash up to 10–12 ft, but I never go longer—it’s harder to control a feisty little dog at a distance.
4. Handle Comfort Counts
I didn’t think much about the handle until I started taking my Yorkie on longer walks. A thin strap digs into your hand after 20 minutes, especially if your pup pulls. Now I always choose leashes with padded or ergonomic handles. Trust me, your hand will thank you after those evening strolls.
5. Safety Features
One of my must-haves is reflective stitching or a bright color. Yorkies are tiny and can be hard to spot at night. Reflective details give me peace of mind during evening walks. I also look for secure clasps—usually stainless steel or rustproof hooks—so I don’t have to worry about the leash unclipping suddenly.
Final Thoughts: Best Leash for Yorkshire Terriers
Walking a Yorkie taught me that the right leash makes every outing safer and more enjoyable. I’ve learned that lightweight, durable, and comfortable designs are the best fit for their tiny frames. Whether you go for a simple nylon lead, a stylish leather option, or a retractable for extra freedom, the key is control and comfort. In the end, the best leash is the one that keeps both you and your Yorkie happy on every walk.
FAQs: Best Leash for Yorkshire Terriers
1. What type of leash is best for a Yorkshire Terrier?
From my experience, a lightweight nylon or padded leash works best since Yorkies are small and fragile. A 4–6 ft leash gives enough control without weighing them down.
2. Can I use a retractable leash for my Yorkie?
Yes, I sometimes use a retractable leash up to 10–12 ft in open spaces. But for busy streets or training, I stick with a standard leash to keep her close and safe.
3. Should I use a collar or a harness with a leash?
I always recommend a harness for Yorkies because their necks are delicate. A collar is fine for ID tags, but for walking, a harness prevents pressure on the trachea.
4. How do I stop my Yorkie from chewing the leash?
My Yorkie went through this phase too! I switched to reinforced rope and chew-proof options, and I always redirected her to a toy if she started chewing. Consistency really helps.
