Yorkshire Terrier

Breed Group: Toy (AKC), Companion (UKC)

History and Overview:

Originally bred to control rats in the mines and cotton mills of Yorkshire, England, the Yorkshire Terrier quickly became a popular breed among working class families. An adorable member of the toy dog group, the tiny breed is a mixture of England’s finest terriers: the Clydesdale Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Waterside Terrier, and the Paisley Terrier. The Yorkie’s popularity has only grown since the its introduction to the United States in the 1870s, and they are currently the third most popular dog according the American Kennel Club.

Physique:

The Yorkie is a very small, well-balanced dog with square proportions and a high head carriage. Average height for a Yorkie is between 7-9 inches. They usually weigh between 3-7lbs.

Character and Temperament:

The temperament of this dog breed is that of a confident and courageous animal. The Yorkshire Terrier seems to be oblivious to its small stature. Always eager for fun and adventure, this dog can be a bit aggressive towards other small animals and strange canines. It definitely maintains that old rough-edged terrier spirit. However, if properly socialized and trained, the Yorkie can get along well with most animals and children.

Training:

Training and proper socialization is important for the Yorkie. An untrained Yorkie can be much more aggressive and feisty with other animals and children. On the other hand, a well-trained Yorkie can be a fantastic pet. Yorkies are intelligent and easily trainable. The Yorkshire Terrier is even a popular showdog.

Health:

Yorkies have an average life span of 13-16 years. Like other toy dog breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier needs exercise but can get all of the physical activity it needs by running between the rooms of a house or small apartment. However, this does not mean that the Yorkie does not enjoy the outdoors. In fact, Yorkies love to take brisk walks with their owners. Just be sure to keep your dog on leash to avoid problems with other small animals. Yorkies can suffer from dental problems, luxating patellas, hypoglycemia, Legg-Perthes disease, and liver shunt.

Coat & Grooming:

The Yorkie is easily recognized by its long, silky coat. Its hair usually parts down the middle of its back and can drag across the ground. The hair on its face is long and blends in with the rest of its coat. Puppies are usually born black and tan, but will often mature into a steel blue and tan coat. Other common coat colors are blue and gold and black and gold. The Yorkie is often considered to be a hypoallergenic dog breed because it sheds much less than most dog breeds. Still, daily brushing and a monthly bath is recommended. You may also want to consider having your Yorkie’s hair trimmed on occasion for easier care.

Notable Crossbreeds:

• The Australian Silky Terrier
• Biewer Terrier
• Yorkie Pin (Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Pinscher)
• Yoranian (Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian)
• Snorkie (Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier)
• Malkies a/k/a Morkies (Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier)