The Yorkshire Terrier, often called the Yorkie, is known for its bold personality, silky coat, and small stature. This extra small breed has a compact build and stands between 5.5 to 7 inches (14 to 18 centimeters) tall. Weighing 6 to 10 pounds (2.5 to 4.5 kilograms), Yorkies have a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years, though they may face certain health conditions.
Yorkies are bold, energetic, and intelligent. They are affectionate, especially with children, and get along well with other pets. With a moderate energy level and high intelligence, they require mental stimulation. Ideal for moderately active owners, they thrive in urban settings and enjoy companionship.
Origin & History
Breed:
Pronunciation:
Other Name(s):
Origin:
Group:
Suggested Names (Male):
Suggested Names (Female):
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in England during the 19th century and was named for its roots in Yorkshire. Known primarily for their ratting abilities, Yorkies were first bred to hunt rodents. The name reflects their origin as effective ratters in the region.
The breed’s development involved crossbreeding the Waterside Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, and Skye Terrier. These combinations aimed to enhance their ratting skills, making them indispensable in rodent control. Their historical purpose was mainly centered on this utility.
Throughout history, Yorkshire Terriers played important roles in controlling rodent populations. However, with industrialization, their popularity surged for companionship rather than work. Their numbers steadily went up, finding favor as personal pets.
Over time, Yorkies evolved from working dogs to popular companions. Today, they are prized for companionship and showing, though some still perform their original ratting role. Their temperament remains bold and confident, aligning with their historical purpose.
The Yorkshire Terrier gained recognition from major kennel clubs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized them in 1885, while the United Kennel Club (UKC) followed in 1956. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognized the breed in 1954.
Appearance & Characteristics
Size:
Height (Male):
Height (Female):
Weight (Male):
Weight (Female):
Coat Length:
Coat Type:
Double Coat:
Hypoallergenic:
Yorkshire Terriers are extra small with a compact build. Males stand 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 centimeters) tall, while females are slightly shorter at 5.5 to 6.5 inches (14 to 16.5 centimeters). Males weigh 7 to 10 pounds (3 to 4.5 kilograms), while females weigh 6 to 10 pounds (2.5 to 4.5 kilograms).
Sporting a long, silky coat, Yorkies come in colors like black and tan, dark steel-blue, and golden tan. They do not have a double coat and are hypoallergenic. Their coat markings vary, with intermingled black for puppies and distinct blue and tan patterns as adults.
The Yorkie’s gentle and expressive face features a small, flat-topped head. They have a medium, straight muzzle and a black nose. Their dark brown or blue eyes are complemented by medium erect ears. Their jaws are scissor-type, reflecting their sharp, efficient bite.
Yorkies have a moderately long, slender, and slightly arched neck, with clean shoulders that have moderate angulation. Their compact, well-proportioned body has a level back and square shape. Their tails are short and docked, adding to their distinctive appearance.
Temperament & Behavior
Affection:
Playfulness:
Protectiveness:
Territoriality:
Prey Drive:
Barking:
With Children:
With Adults:
With Dogs:
With Pets:
With Strangers:
Yorkies are bold and affectionate, often showing high affection, playfulness, and protectiveness. Their territorial nature makes them alert and somewhat prone to barking. Despite their small size, they show a confident demeanor and are highly spirited.
Intelligent yet stubborn, Yorkies need patient training. They are sensitive and eager to please, although their obedience and trainability can be challenging. First-time owners can manage them with consistency, but experience helps. Their behavior reflects their independent spirit.
Yorkies are affectionate with children, making them suitable for families. They adapt well to other dogs and pets, though they may show a prey drive. With adults, they are highly affectionate, but may be cautious with strangers.
Training & Exercise
Energy:
Intelligence:
Mental Stimulation:
Obedience:
Trainability:
Yorkies require mental stimulation to keep their intelligent minds engaged. Their energy level demands daily exercises like walking and playing. Without enough activity, they can become bored and restless, highlighting the importance of regular interaction. A typical day for a Yorkie should include 30 to 45 minutes of low-to-moderate-intensity activities.
Sample Yorkshire Terrier daily activity schedule:
- Morning: 10-minute leisurely walk
- Afternoon: 15-minute playtime session
- Evening: 20-minute obedience training session
Yorkshire Terrier socialization is important for Yorkies to interact well with others. Yorkshire Terrier potty training requires consistency, while Yorkshire Terrier obedience training fosters better behavior. Yorkshire Terrier behavior training addresses their stubbornness, ensuring they develop into well-rounded companions.
Grooming & Maintenance
Shedding:
Grooming:
Drooling:
Yorkies have a low shedding rate, with minimal seasonal variation. Grooming demands are high, requiring frequent brushing to ensure their coat remains healthy and shiny. General care for Yorkies includes brushing, bathing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and teeth cleaning.
Typical Yorkshire Terrier grooming and care schedule:
- Brushing: Every 1 to 2 days with a slicker brush
- Bathing: Every 4 to 6 weeks with dog-friendly shampoo
- Nail clipping: Every 3 to 4 weeks with plier or guillotine-style clippers
- Ear cleaning: Weekly or twice weekly with cotton balls or gauze and a dog-friendly ear cleaner
- Teeth cleaning: 2 to 3 times a week with a dog-specific toothbrush
Health & Lifespan
Lifespan:
Health Issues:
Dental Issues:
Ear Issues:
Eye Issues:
Yorkies have a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years. They are predisposed to health issues like Patellar Luxation, Tracheal Collapse, Hypoglycemia, Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease, and Portosystemic Shunt.
Other health conditions Yorkshire Terriers are susceptible to include:
Dental issues are common because of their small jaw, leading to overcrowding. Regular brushing reduces problems. Their small ears can trap moisture, causing ear issues, while eye conditions like PRA and cataracts are common. Routine care helps manage these concerns.
Routine veterinary care is essential for Yorkies. Regular visits allow for preventive care and early intervention. Tailored care, considering their unique health needs, ensures they remain healthy and active.
Breed Suitability
Experience Level:
First-Time Owner:
Apartment Living:
Yorkies suit a moderately active lifestyle, thriving with owners who enjoy companionship. Their intelligence and energy require mental stimulation. Despite high grooming needs, they adapt well to urban living, making them ideal for people who prefer indoor settings.
While suitable for first-time owners, Yorkies’ stubbornness requires patience. Their eagerness to please enhances trainability, although consistent training is necessary. New owners should be ready to dedicate time to understanding and managing their Yorkie’s unique traits.
Yorkies are affectionate and playful, making them wonderful family pets. They are protective and territorial, offering security. Their compatibility with children and pets depends on early socialization, ensuring harmonious relationships within the household.
Yorkshire Terriers are extra small and fit well in apartments. Their ideal environment includes moderate climates and spaces to explore. Though prone to barking, training helps manage this trait. Their adaptability suits various living situations, providing companionship to all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yorkshire Terriers Good with Children?
Yes, Yorkies are good with children. Their affectionate nature and playfulness make them suitable companions for kids. They are protective, adding a sense of security. Proper Yorkshire Terrier socialization ensures they interact well with children.
Are Yorkshire Terriers Good with Other Pets?
Yes, Yorkies can get along with other pets. Their territoriality may require early Yorkshire Terrier socialization to ensure positive interactions. With proper introductions and training, they adapt to living with other animals.
Are Yorkshire Terriers Good for First-Time Dog Owners?
Yes, Yorkies are suitable for first-time owners. Their trainability and obedience require dedication. While they can be stubborn, consistent Yorkshire Terrier obedience training helps manage this trait. Owners should be ready to invest time in training.
Do Yorkshire Terriers Shed a Lot?
Yorkies have a low shedding rate. Although they require regular grooming, shedding remains minimal. Brushing every 1 to 2 days helps maintain their coat and manage any loose hair.
Do Yorkshire Terriers Bark a Lot?
Yes, Yorkies are known for their barking. Their vocal tendencies may require Yorkshire Terrier behavior training to manage effectively. Consistent training helps control unnecessary barking.
Can Yorkshire Terriers Live In an Apartment?
Yorkies are well-suited for apartment living. Their small size and adaptability make them ideal for confined spaces. Despite their barking, proper training helps reduce disturbances in an apartment setting.
Can Yorkshire Terriers Be Left Alone for Long Periods?
No, Yorkies should not be left alone for extended periods. Their sensitivity can lead to separation anxiety. Gradually increasing separation time and ensuring a low-key departure and arrival can ease anxiety.
Can Yorkshire Terriers Swim?
No, Yorkies are not natural swimmers. They require supervision and safety measures around water. While some may enjoy swimming, owners should not force them into water activities.
