Yorkshire Terrier Breed Characteristics
Height
20 to 22 cm at the shoulder
Weight
4 to 6 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Black, gold, tan, blue
Yorkshire Terrier
Amiable, playful and charming
About the Yorkshire Terrier
Feisty, affectionate, and glamorous – the Yorkshire Terrier revels in the attention they garner. Though small in stature, the Yorkie boasts a big personality, making it the favored choice for apartment dwellers.
As a companion, they adore their family. Initially wary of strangers, they quickly warm up to new friends. That’s fortunate, as Yorkies tend to draw attention with their stunning coats and sweet faces. They embody the signature terrier bravado, sometimes becoming protective when new pets enter the household. However, well-socialized and trained Yorkies usually get along well with other dogs.
Yorkshire Terriers are popular among city-dwellers and relish their place at the top.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Yorkshire Terrier, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
4/5
Friendly with Kids
3/5
Friendly with Dogs
3/5
Ease of Grooming
2/5
Exercise Needs
1/5
Prey Drive
2/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
3/5
Good for Novice Owners
4/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Yorkshire Terrier Breed History
The Yorkshire Terrier traces its roots to the mid-19th century in Yorkshire, a northern English county. During the Industrial Revolution, Scottish immigrants brought their larger rat-catching dogs to Yorkshire’s coal mines and factories. Over time, these dogs crossbred with local terriers, giving rise to the Yorkshire Terrier.
Named in the latter half of the 19th century, the breed gained popularity through Huddersfield Ben, a show dog born in 1865, considered the father of modern Yorkies. Victorian noblewomen soon recognized the breed’s charms, and the Yorkshire Terrier became a staple of high society.
Caring For a Yorkshire Terrier
- Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers generally exhibit gentle and playful behavior with their family but display adventurous and brave traits outdoors. Their small and somewhat fragile build may not suit young children as playmates.
- Grooming: Yorkies possess fine hair, akin to human hair. Owners must become familiar with the grooming routine, which includes frequent brushing, trimming to prevent tangles, and regular baths and conditioning.
- Exercise: Despite their high energy levels, their small size means that even indoor walking counts as exercise. Two 10 to 20-minute outdoor walks usually suffice.
- Nutrition: Adult Yorkshire Terriers need around ½ to ¾ cup of dry dog food daily, while puppies require about half that amount. Consult your vet for specific dietary advice.
- Training: Yorkshire Terriers, though intelligent and clever, may exhibit stubbornness. Training should be reward-based to achieve desired behavior.
How to Choose a Responsible Yorkshire Terrier Breeder
To avoid inherited health problems, purchase your Yorkshire Terrier puppy from a responsible breeder. Given their fragility, your Yorkie’s health is paramount. Inquire if the breeder conducts health checks on their breeding animals and learn about their breeding program goals.
When seeking a Yorkshire Terrier, ask to meet the dam and stud. The parents’ temperament greatly influences your puppy’s disposition.
Yorkshire Terrier FAQ
Can Yorkshire Terriers be left alone throughout the day?
No. They’re companion dogs through and through, despite being hunting dogs in the past. Thankfully, they’re very portable dogs and you can usually bring them along for any errands.
Do Yorkshire Terriers make good watchdogs?
Yes, Yorkshire Terriers can make good watchdogs as they won’t hesitate to sound the alarm if a stranger enters their territory.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Yorkshire Terrier
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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