Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier (or Yorkie) originated in the late 1800s and is descended from several old English terrier breeds, including the Black and Tan English Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, and, most recently, Waterside Terrier. The breed originally was owned by working-class people and was used for vermin control as well as companionship, but it wasn’t long before this tiny terrier was appreciated by the upper classes and royalty.

The Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) is very much a terrier even though it is small.

Yorkshire Terrier carries his head high and projects an aura of self-importance. Standing 8 to 9 inches tall and weighing less than 7 pounds, the Yorkshire Terrier is well-balanced and square. The eyes are dark and full of personality; the ears are small, V-shaped, and carried erect. The coat is silky and long and, in adults, falls to the floor. The hair is parted along the backbone from head to tail. The coat color is blue with tan on the head, under the tail, and on the legs. The tail is docked.

Grooming is a big part of a Yorkie’s life, especially if you keep the coat long. The coat will tangle if not combed and brushed every day and again after outdoor play sessions. Many pet owners keep the coat trimmed to a shorter length simply for ease of care. Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) are active little dogs. They enjoy walks, play sessions, and hunting for critters in the backyard. Yorkies can have difficulty with housetraining, but with supervision, persistence, and patience, it can be accomplished. Early obedience training can help channel this breed’s quick mind, giving the dog something constructive to do. Yorkshire Terriers are bright and intelligent but can be a little stubborn. They do have a mind of their own. Many Yorkshire Terrier owners teach their little dogs tricks, as the breed is a natural showoff and loves to be the center of attention. Yorkshire Terrier dogs can also participate in canine sports.

This breed is very attached to the family but can also become more strongly bonded to one particular family member, especially if more time is spent with that one person. Yorkshire Terriers can be reserved toward strangers, but friends are greeted with enthusiasm. They can be good with children who are gentle and treat them with respect.

Yorkshire Terriers tend to bark at strange dogs and can put on an aggressive act, although they are too small to back up any threats. This behavior should be discouraged, as larger dogs could easily harm them. Health concerns include dental problems, hypoglycemia, and knee problems.

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