The right toys keep your Yorkie active, mentally stimulated, and out of trouble. Small breeds need toys that fit their mouth and body—too big is awkward, too small can be a choking risk. This guide covers safe toy types, size guidelines, what to avoid, and product links. For chewing, see chew bones for Yorkies and chew toys for Yorkie puppies; for activities, see what Yorkies like to do for fun.
Last updated: February 2026 · Reading time: ~7 min
Quick Answer
Safe Yorkie toys are small-breed sized, durable (or designed to be destroyed under supervision), and supervised. Good types: soft plush (no small parts), rubber (e.g. Kong Small), puzzle and treat-dispensing toys, small balls (about 1.6–2 in), and dental/chew toys (chew bones and chew toys for details). Avoid: toys with small parts (buttons, eyes), long strings, or anything they can swallow whole. Rotate toys to keep interest; always supervise play.
Why Toy Choice Matters for Yorkies
Yorkies are small and have small mouths and throats. A toy that’s fine for a medium dog can be a choking hazard for a Yorkie. They’re also energetic and curious—toys that are too hard can crack teeth; too flimsy can break into pieces. Picking size-appropriate, durable (or safely destructible) toys and supervising play reduces risk and keeps playtime fun and safe.
Safe Toy Types for Yorkies
| Type | Why it works | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soft plush | Carrying, cuddling, light tug | Choose small size; no plastic eyes or buttons; supervise and replace when torn. |
| Rubber (e.g. Kong) | Chewing, fetch, stuff with treats | Kong Small is a good fit; stuff with treats or kibble for mental work. |
| Puzzle / treat-dispensing | Mental stimulation | Small-breed puzzles; use training treats or kibble. |
| Small balls | Fetch and chase | ~1.6–2 in diameter so they can’t be swallowed; avoid too heavy. |
| Rope (tug) | Interactive play | Soft rope, small size; stop if play gets too intense. |
| Dental / chew | Chewing, dental care | Use chews and bones and chew toys made for small dogs; supervise. |
Size Guidelines
| Factor | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Ball size | About 1.6–2 in diameter; must not fit entirely in the mouth. |
| Plush / rubber | Labeled “small” or “small breed”; not much larger than the dog’s head. |
| Puzzle toys | Small-dog versions so they can move pieces with nose or paws. |
| Chews | “Teenie,” “mini,” or “small” only; see chew bones for Yorkies. |
When in doubt, go smaller than you think—Yorkies can choke on objects that seem “small enough” to us.
Toys to Avoid
- Small parts — Buttons, plastic eyes, bells, or beads that can be chewed off and swallowed.
- Long strings or ribbons — Can wrap around the throat or be swallowed.
- Too-small balls or toys — Anything that can be swallowed whole (choking or blockage).
- Very hard materials — Hard nylon or bones that can crack Yorkie teeth; choose appropriately soft or flexible.
- Rawhide (if your dog swallows big pieces) — Choking and blockage risk; see chew bones for safer options.
- Toys not meant for dogs — Children’s toys may have unsafe materials or parts.
Top Picks (with links)
Kong Classic Small
Rubber toy for chewing and fetch; can be stuffed with treats or kibble for mental stimulation. Small size fits Yorkies. Durable and easy to clean.
Check price: Kong Classic Small on Amazon
Puzzle / treat-dispensing (small breed)
Puzzle toys and treat dispensers give mental exercise. Choose designs for small dogs so your Yorkie can move pieces or roll the toy.
Check price: Nina Ottosson / small dog puzzle toys on Amazon
Check price: Kong Wobbler Small on Amazon
Small balls for fetch
Small-dog balls (about 1.6–2 in) are safe for fetch and chase. For automatic play, see ball launchers for small dogs.
Check price: Small dog fetch balls on Amazon
Chews and dental toys
For edible chews and dental chews sized for Yorkies, see chew bones for Yorkies. For chew toys (non-edible), see chew toys for Yorkie puppies.
Mental Stimulation and Rotation
Yorkies are smart and can get bored. Rotate toys every few days so they feel “new” again. Use puzzle and treat-dispensing toys a few times a week for mental exercise. Combine toys with walks, training, and activities they enjoy for a balanced routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size toy is safe for a Yorkie?
Use small or small-breed labeled toys. Balls about 1.6–2 inches in diameter; plush and rubber no larger than roughly the dog’s head. Avoid anything that can be swallowed whole.
Are squeaky toys safe?
Squeakers are safe only if the toy is durable and the squeaker can’t be easily removed and swallowed. Supervise and discard once the toy is torn or the squeaker is exposed.
How many toys should my Yorkie have?
A small set (e.g. 5–8) is enough; rotating them keeps interest. Include a mix: something to carry, something to chew, and something for mental work (puzzle/treat toy).
Can Yorkies have rope toys?
Yes. Use soft rope in a small size for tug. Supervise and replace when frayed to avoid swallowing strings.
Where do I find chew-safe options?
See chew bones for Yorkies and chew toys for Yorkie puppies for safe chews and chew toys; always supervise and choose small sizes.
For play ideas, see what do Yorkies like to do for fun and how much exercise a Yorkie needs. For training and behavior, see trainers.
Supervise your Yorkie with all toys. Remove damaged or small pieces immediately.