Welcome to Yorkie Talk!
I am in total agreement with everyone so far. I believe that harnesses are far safer for Yorkies not only for the trachea issue, but also because Yorkies can be little escape artists and it is almost impossible to weasel out of a well-fitted harness. There are several people here on YT who make safe, good quality harnesses. I happen to be one .... My Step-In harnesses are made from dupioni silk. I have found that the silk is gentler on the fragile hair and delicate skin than other types of fabric and nylon ribbing.
...btw.... I noticed you are from Atlanta, that makes us neighbors, I am from Rome
