Yorkshire Terrier Dog: The Complete Guide to Loving Yorkies

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is a small but mighty breed that has captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. These pint-sized pups pack a personality that far exceeds their diminutive stature, making them one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States.

Originally bred in Yorkshire, England, during the 19th century, these feisty little dogs were initially developed to catch rats in clothing mills. Today, they’ve traded their working-class roots for a life of luxury, often seen as fashionable companions to dog enthusiasts everywhere.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Weight

One of the most charming aspects of the Yorkshire Terrier is their compact size. These little dogs typically stand between 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. But how big do Yorkies get, really? Well, despite their small stature, they often have a larger-than-life presence!

When it comes to a healthy weight for a Yorkshire Terrier, these pint-sized pups should typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds. However, it’s not uncommon to see Yorkies that are slightly over or under this range. The key is to maintain a weight that allows for a visible waistline and easily felt ribs without being too prominent.

Coat and Colors

The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat is truly their crowning glory. Their hair is fine, silky, and straight, often described as being similar to human hair. This magnificent coat comes in a combination of steel blue and tan colors. The body is a dark steel blue, while the face, chest, and legs sport a rich, warm tan.

Distinctive Features

Beyond their luxurious coat, Yorkies are known for their alert, intelligent expression. They have a small, flat head with a medium-length muzzle. Their eyes are dark and sparkling, conveying a keen intelligence that’s hard to resist. Their ears are small, V-shaped, and carried erect, adding to their attentive appearance.

Temperament and Personality

Known Traits

What are Yorkshire Terriers known for? These little dogs are renowned for their big personalities! They’re often described as aggressive, brave, and sometimes even bossy. Despite their small size, Yorkies often act as if they’re much larger dogs, fearlessly taking on the world around them.

Yorkies are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They form strong bonds and often become very attached to their human families. This combination of bravery and devotion makes them excellent watchdogs, always alert and ready to sound the alarm at any sign of intruders.

Special Qualities

What makes Yorkies so special? It’s their unique blend of traits that sets them apart. These little dogs are:

Adaptable: They can thrive in various living situations, from sprawling country homes to tiny city apartments.
Intelligent: Yorkies are quick learners and enjoy mental stimulation.
Energetic: Despite their small size, they have plenty of energy and love to play.
Portable: Their small size makes them perfect travel companions.
Long-lived: With proper care, Yorkies can live up to 15 years or more.

Stubbornness

Why are Yorkies so stubborn? Well, it’s part of their terrier heritage! These little dogs were bred to be independent thinkers, a trait that served them well when hunting rats. Today, this can translate into a willful streak that some owners find challenging.

Yorkies often have their ideas about what they want to do, and they’re not afraid to stand their ground. This stubbornness can make training a bit of a challenge, but it’s also part of what gives Yorkies their distinctive charm. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, even the most stubborn Yorkie can be trained to be a well-behaved companion.

Care and Maintenance

Grooming Needs

The Yorkshire Terrier’s beautiful coat requires regular maintenance to keep it in top condition. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. Many Yorkie owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make grooming more manageable.

Regular baths (every 2-4 weeks) with a gentle dog shampoo will keep your Yorkie’s coat clean and shiny. Don’t forget to pay attention to their teeth, nails, and ears as part of their grooming routine.

Exercise Requirements

How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need? Despite their small size, Yorkies are energetic little dogs who enjoy regular exercise. They typically need about 20-30 minutes of activity each day, which can be split into two shorter sessions.

This can include:

Short walks
Play sessions in the house or yard
Interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war

Remember, mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for these intelligent little dogs. Puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep their minds sharp.

Nutritional Needs

Yorkies have small stomachs, so it’s best to feed them small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals. High-quality, small-breed dog food is typically recommended. The amount will vary based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level, but generally, adult Yorkies eat about 1/4 to 1/2 cups of dry food per day.

Always ensure fresh water is available, and be cautious with treats – Yorkies can easily become overweight if overfed.

Training and Socialization

Best Practices

Training a Yorkshire Terrier requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These intelligent dogs can learn quickly, but their independent nature means they may not always choose to obey. Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain their interest.

Early socialization is crucial for Yorkies. Expose them to a variety of people, animals, and situations from a young age to help them develop into well-rounded adults.

Common Challenges

Some common training challenges with Yorkies include:

Housebreaking: Their small size means they have small bladders, so consistent potty training is important.
Barking: Yorkies can be quite vocal, so teaching a “quiet” command is often necessary.
Leash training: Their energetic nature can make them prone to pulling on the leash.

Health and Lifespan

Common Health Issues

Do Yorkies have health problems? Like all breeds, Yorkshire Terriers can be prone to certain health issues. Some conditions to be aware of include:

Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates.
Portosystemic Shunt: A liver condition that affects blood flow.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially in puppies and toy breeds.
Tracheal Collapse: A weakening of the windpipe that can cause breathing issues.
Dental Problems: Due to their small mouths, Yorkies can be prone to tooth overcrowding and decay.

Preventive Care

Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, providing regular exercise, and keeping up with vaccinations and parasite prevention are all crucial for keeping your Yorkie healthy. Dental care is particularly important for this breed, so regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings are recommended.

Average Lifespan

With proper care, Yorkshire Terriers typically live between 13 to 16 years, with some living even longer. Their small size and generally good health contribute to their longevity, making them wonderful long-term companions.

Yorkshire Terrier Varieties

How many types of Yorkies are there? While there’s only one officially recognized Yorkshire Terrier breed, there are several variations that some breeders produce:

Standard Yorkshire Terrier: The typical Yorkie weighing 4-7 pounds.
Teacup Yorkie: A very small Yorkie, usually under 4 pounds (not recognized by official breed standards).
Parti Yorkie: A Yorkie with white markings in addition to the standard blue and tan.
Golden Yorkie: A rare color variation with a golden coat instead of blue.
Chocolate Yorkie: Another rare color variation with a brown coat.

It’s important to note that only the standard Yorkshire Terrier is recognized by major kennel clubs.

Living with a Yorkshire Terrier

Ideal Home Environment

Yorkies are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to large homes. They don’t require a lot of space, making them excellent choices for city dwellers. However, they do best in homes where they can receive plenty of attention and interaction.

Compatibility with Children and Other Pets

While Yorkies can get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized, their small size means they can be easily injured by rough play. They’re often better suited to homes with older children who can handle them gently. As for other pets, Yorkies generally get along well with other dogs, especially when introduced at a young age. However, their terrier instincts might make them prone to chasing smaller pets like cats or rodents.

Yorkshire Terrier’s Purpose and History

What were Yorkies bred for? The Yorkshire Terrier’s journey from working-class hero to lap dog luxury is a fascinating one. In the mid-19th century, during the Industrial Revolution, Scottish weavers migrated to Yorkshire, England, bringing with them various small terrier breeds. These dogs were crossed with local terriers to create a small, fierce dog capable of catching rats in the textile mills and coal mines.

The resulting breed, the Yorkshire Terrier, proved to be an excellent ratter. Their small size allowed them to navigate tight spaces in mills and mines, while their brave and tenacious nature made them fearless in pursuing their prey. Over time, the breed’s charming appearance and personality caught the attention of the upper classes, and Yorkies transitioned from working dogs to fashionable companions.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Yorkie

Pros of Owning a Yorkshire Terrier

Compact size suitable for various living situations
Affectionate and loyal companions
Long lifespan
Low shedding (great for allergy sufferers)
Intelligent and trainable
Excellent watchdogs

Potential Challenges

What do Yorkies not like? Understanding potential challenges can help you decide if a Yorkie is right for you:
Separation anxiety: Yorkies often become very attached to their owners and may not like being left alone for long periods.
Cold weather: Their small size and fine coat make them sensitive to cold.
Rough handling: Due to their delicate build, Yorkies don’t appreciate rough play.
Loud noises: Many Yorkies are sensitive to loud or sudden noises.
Being ignored: These social dogs crave attention and interaction.

Conclusion: Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?

The Yorkshire Terrier is a charming, spirited little dog that can bring joy and companionship to the right home. Their small size, big personality, and adaptability make them popular pets for a reason. However, they also require dedication in terms of grooming, training, and attention.

If you’re looking for a small dog with a big heart, who’s always up for adventure (be it a walk in the park or a cuddle on the couch), and you’re prepared for the grooming and care they require, a Yorkie might be the perfect addition to your family. Remember, bringing any dog into your life is a long-term commitment, so be sure you’re ready for the responsibility before taking the plunge.

Whether you’re drawn to their luxurious coat, their spunky personality, or their devoted nature, one thing’s for sure – life with a Yorkshire Terrier is never dull!

Author
Recent Posts

Emily Fassbaugh

Emily A. Fassbaugh, DVM - VETERINARIAN

Dr. Emily Fassbaugh grew up in San Diego. She attended the University of California, Davis for both her undergraduate studies in Animal Science and for veterinary school.During her time at UC Davis, she spent time working with the riding program at the Equestrian Center and the Feline Research Colony. Dr. Fassbaugh works in general practice has a special interest in dermatology and dentistry.

In her free time, Dr. Fassbaugh enjoys spending time with her husband and children, and with her 4 dogs, 4 cats, 4 guinea pigs, bearded dragon, leopard gecko, and ball python. She is an avid reader and hiker.

Latest posts by Emily Fassbaugh (see all)