Yorkies should NOT jump up onto or off anything higher than their shoulder. I know this may sound ridiculous for those of us who have althletic dogs who seem to think they can fly and will jump off things ten times their height.
I learned this lesson the hard way with a miniature poodle I had who jumped onto my bed and off again all the time. When she got older she developed severe arthritis and it was heartbreaking to see her in pain.
It is especially important for yorkies to make steps or ramps for all the furniture and anything else you allow them to get onto. I have bought the foam steps for the kids rooms and I have fashioned steps from ottomons and decorator suitcases in my bedroom. I also use pillows and ottomans in the family room for the couches in there. It doesn't have to be expensive or unattractive.
It will save broken bones, arthritis and luxating patellas. |