Yorkshire Terriers are energetic and curious. They enjoy play, exploration, and time with you. Giving them the right mix of exercise and mental stimulation keeps them happy and can reduce barking and mischief. This guide lists activities most Yorkies love and how to do them safely—with product links where helpful.
Last updated: February 2026 · Reading time: ~7 min
Quick Answer
Yorkies typically enjoy: daily walks (with time to sniff), fetch (small balls or ball launchers for small dogs), puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys, tug-of-war with soft ropes, hide-and-seek or treasure hunt with treats, training and tricks, and cuddling. Keep sessions short (they’re small and can tire or overheat). Match toys to their size so they’re safe and easy to carry. Bored or under-exercised Yorkies are more likely to bark or get into trouble.
Activities Yorkies Love
| Activity | Why they like it | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Walking & sniffing | Exploration and mental stimulation | Let them sniff; 15–30 min daily is often enough. |
| Fetch | Chasing and retrieving | Use mini balls or small toys; avoid heavy or oversized balls. |
| Puzzle toys | Problem-solving and food reward | Start easy; use small treat puzzles. |
| Tug-of-war | Play and interaction | Use a soft rope; stop if they get overexcited or aggressive. |
| Training & tricks | Mental work and treats | Short sessions (5–10 min); sit, stay, come, shake. |
| Hide and seek / treasure hunt | Hunting instinct and reward | Hide treats or a favorite toy; praise when they find it. |
| Chewing | Calming and dental care | Give safe chews sized for small dogs; supervise. |
| Cuddling & affection | Bonding | Many Yorkies love lap time and gentle petting. |
Walking and Sniffing
Yorkies love short walks where they can sniff and explore. Sniffing is mentally tiring and satisfying. Vary the route when you can. Use a harness to avoid pressure on the throat. In hot weather, walk in the morning or evening and watch for overheating.
Fetch and Ball Play
Many Yorkies love fetch. Use small balls (about 1.6–2 in) so they can carry them comfortably. An automatic ball launcher for small dogs can give them more throws without tiring you. Keep sessions short so they don’t overdo it. Indoors, a hallway or living room is often enough for a small dog.
Check price: iFetch mini ball launcher for small dogs on Amazon
Puzzle and Treat-Dispensing Toys
Puzzle toys and treat dispensers make your Yorkie work for treats or kibble—great for mental stimulation. Choose small-breed sizes so they can manipulate the toy. Introduce one level at a time so they don’t get frustrated.
Check price: Nina Ottosson puzzle toy for small dogs on Amazon
Check price: Kong Classic Small on Amazon
Tug and Interactive Play
Tug-of-war with a soft rope or plush tug toy is a hit with many Yorkies. Use a toy sized for small dogs so they can grip it. Keep play controlled: stop if they get too aroused or possessive. You can pair tug with fetch or short training for variety.
Check price: ZippyPaws small rope tug on Amazon
Training and Tricks
Yorkies are smart and usually enjoy learning. Short sessions (5–10 min) with training treats work well. Teach sit, stay, come, shake, or roll over. Training doubles as mental exercise and strengthens your bond. For behavior issues (e.g. barking), consider a trainer.
Hide and Seek / Treasure Hunt
Hide and seek (you hide, they find you) or treasure hunt (hide treats or a toy) use their nose and brain. Start with easy hides and increase difficulty. Reward when they find you or the item. Good for rainy days or indoor play.
Socializing and Playdates
Many Yorkies enjoy meeting calm, friendly dogs in controlled settings. Match them with similar-sized or gentle dogs. Supervise play and watch for stress or overexcitement. Good socialization can reduce anxiety and improve quality of life. See best dog companions for a Yorkie for breed ideas.
How Much Fun Do They Need?
| Need | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Physical | About 20–30 min of walking/play per day, adjusted for heat and fitness. |
| Mental | Puzzle toys, training, or sniff walks several times a week. |
| Social | Time with you daily; optional playdates with other dogs. |
Bored or under-exercised Yorkies may bark more, chew, or act out. For more on exercise, see how much exercise does a Yorkie need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Yorkies like to be petted?
Many do. They often enjoy lap time, gentle petting, and being near their people. Respect their body language—if they move away or tense up, give them space.
How do I know if my Yorkie is happy?
Signs often include a relaxed body, wagging tail, willingness to play, good appetite, and calm rest. Stress or unhappiness may show as hiding, excessive barking, or loss of interest in play or food.
How do I keep my Yorkie happy?
Provide daily exercise and mental stimulation, a consistent routine, good food, grooming, and plenty of attention. Avoid long periods alone without a plan; see barking and anxiety if they’re stressed when left.
What do Yorkies do for attention?
They may follow you, bark, paw at you, or bring a toy. Reward calm behavior and train an alternative (e.g. “sit” for attention) so they don’t learn that barking gets results.
For toy ideas, see Yorkie toys and chew bones for Yorkies.
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Browse Trainers →This article is for general guidance only. Match activities to your Yorkie’s age, health, and energy level.