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 basks in the attention they command. Though small in stature, the Yorkie flaunts a big personality, making them a beloved choice for apartment dwellers.
As a companion, they cherish their family. Initially cautious around strangers, they quickly embrace new friends. That’s fortunate, as Yorkies tend to captivate onlookers with their stunning coats and sweet faces. They embody the signature terrier bravado, sometimes guarding fiercely when new pets enter the household. However, well-socialised and trained Yorkies typically harmonise with other dogs.
Yorkshire Terriers thrive among city-dwellers and savour 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
Registered Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
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Yorkshire Terrier Breed History
The Yorkshire Terrier traces its lineage to the mid-19th century in Yorkshire, a northern English county. During the Industrial Revolution, Scottish immigrants brought their larger rat-hunting dogs to Yorkshire’s coal mines and factories. Over time, these dogs interbred with local terriers, birthing the Yorkshire Terrier.
Named in the latter half of the 19th century, the breed surged in popularity through Huddersfield Ben, a show dog born in 1865, hailed as the father of modern Yorkies. Victorian noblewomen quickly embraced the breed’s allure, and the Yorkshire Terrier became a fixture of high society.
Caring For a Yorkshire Terrier
- Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers typically exhibit gentle and playful behaviour with their family but showcase adventurous and brave traits outdoors. Their small and somewhat delicate 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 thwart tangles, and regular baths and conditioning.
- Exercise: Despite their high energy levels, their small size means that even indoor walking suffices as exercise. Two 10 to 20-minute outdoor walks usually meet their needs.
- Nutrition: Adult Yorkshire Terriers require around ½ to ¾ cup of dry dog food daily, while puppies need about half that amount. Consult your vet for precise dietary guidance.
- Training: Yorkshire Terriers, though intelligent and clever, may exhibit stubbornness. Training should hinge on rewards to instil desired behaviour.
How to Choose a Responsible Yorkshire Terrier Breeder
To prevent inherited health problems, acquire your Yorkshire Terrier puppy from a responsible breeder. Given their fragility, your Yorkie’s health is paramount. Inquire whether the breeder performs health checks on their breeding animals and understand their breeding program goals.
When seeking a Yorkshire Terrier, ask to meet the dam and stud. The parents’ temperament significantly shapes 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.
