Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkie

Purpose
small vermin hunting
Breed Type : Pure Breeds
Breed Size: Small

The contemporary Yorkshire Terrier is a small breed primarily valued for companionship. In stark contrast, its forebears were much larger and were utilized for hunting small rodents and other vermin. It is thought that the Yorkshire Terrier emerged from a mix of several terrier breeds, with some contributions from the Maltese. Among these breeds are the Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont, Manchester Terrier, and the now-extinct Paisley or Clydesdale Terrier. Over the years, this brave little hunting dog evolved into a trendy pet, so petite that many women now carry them in handbags or under their arms. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Yorkshire Terrier in 1885.

Breed Origin

Breed Origin

The Yorkshire Terrier gets its name from its geographical origins and its classification within the Terrier group. The Industrial Revolution not only introduced production lines and factories but also brought a wave of Scottish workers to England. Among them was the now-extinct Clydesdale or Paisley Terrier, a breed thought to have been used for catching rats in industrial environments. This Paisley Terrier was crossbred with several other Terriers, such as the English Black and Tan Toy Terrier and the Skye Terrier. Furthermore, it is believed that the long-haired Waterside Terrier, known for its blue-gray coat, played a role in shaping the breed. The contemporary Yorkshire Terrier can trace its ancestry back to Huddersfield Ben, a notable show dog from the late 19th century. The British Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1874, while the first Yorkshire Terrier club in England was founded two years earlier, in 1872.

Breed Appearance

The Yorkshire Terrier is a notably small breed, generally weighing less than seven pounds and classified as a “toy” dog. It has a small head with a medium-length muzzle, and its teeth meet in a level bite. The nose is black, and it has medium-sized, typically dark brown eyes. The ears are upright and shaped like a V. Its feet are round, featuring black toenails, and dewclaws are often removed. The tail is carried higher than the back and is usually docked to a medium length. Renowned for its long, fine, and silky coat, the Yorkshire Terrier's fur falls straight down on either side of its back. The coat is predominantly steel blue with tan markings that extend from the elbows to the legs, while the rest of the body remains blue. As puppies, they start with a coat of brown, black, and tan that changes as they mature. Many owners choose to trim the hair on the top of the Yorkie's head or secure it with a band to keep it from interfering with the dog’s food.

Breed Appearance
Care Routine

Care Routine

Regular grooming is vital for a Yorkshire Terrier. If not brushed regularly, their long, delicate fur can quickly become tangled and matted. Caring for a long coat can require several hours of attention, which is why many owners choose to keep their Yorkies in a shorter style. For those who prefer to maintain the longer look, daily brushing is essential. Furthermore, Yorkies need daily physical activity to remain healthy. Due to their small stature, it’s important for them to live indoors with their families. Care must also be taken to ensure that children interact with the Yorkie gently, as they are prone to serious injuries. Nail trimming should occur twice a month, and daily tooth brushing is recommended to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

Behavior & Temperament

The Yorkshire Terrier is a lively and adventurous breed, celebrated for its charming companionship and deep affection for its owner. This breed is marked by its courage, intelligence, and keen awareness of its surroundings. For owners, establishing themselves as the pack leader is vital to avoid the onset of Small Dog Syndrome, which can manifest in issues like anxiety, excessive barking, or aggression. To raise a well-adjusted Yorkie, it’s important to set clear and consistent rules that the dog can easily understand. With proper training, Yorkies can become beloved family members, particularly thriving in homes with older children who know how to engage with small dogs. Although they excel as watchdogs, they can be challenging to housebreak. Consistent and assertive training will help reinforce your leadership role, allowing you to fully appreciate the affectionate disposition of your Yorkie.

Behavior & Temperament
Play & Exercise

Play & Exercise

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

0.8 Cups

Daily Activity

30 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

1800s

Type

Pure Breeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

England

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

Register

Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?

Member Clubs

PETINNATE

PETINNATE

Companion Dog

AKC

AKC

Toy Group

UKC

UKC

Companion Dog

Height & Weight

Weight

6 lbs (3 kg)

Male: 6 lbs (3 kg) , Female: 6 lbs (3 kg)

Height

9 inches (23 sm)

Male: 9 inches (23 sm) , Female: 9 inches (23 sm)

6 Months

3 lbs
4 inches

3 lbs ( m 3 lbs, f 3 lbs )

4 inches ( m 4 inches, f 4 inches )

12 Months

5 lbs
7 inches

5 lbs ( m 5 lbs, f 5 lbs )

7 inches ( m 7 inches, f 7 inches )

18 Months

6 lbs
8 inches

6 lbs ( m 6 lbs, f 6 lbs )

8 inches ( m 8 inches, f 8 inches )

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black

Blue

Silver

Mixes

Chorkie
Chorkie

The Chorkie, an endearing mix of the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier, can inherit various characteristics related to its looks, behavior, temperament, and health from one or both of its parent breeds. The Chihuahua, which originated in Mexico around the 9th century, is believed to have descended from a small companion dog from ancient times. On the other hand, the Yorkshire Terrier was bred in northern England primarily for hunting rats in mines and textile mills. Although there is no definitive agreement on the specific breeds that contributed to the Yorkie's ancestry, several are thought to have influenced its development, including the Waterside Terrier, Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, rough-coated Black-and-Tan English Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Paisley Terrier, and the now-extinct Leeds and Clydesdale Terriers. Known for its delightful personality, the Chorkie is cheerful, affectionate, energetic, loyal, protective, and sociable. Furthermore, this hybrid breed typically sheds very little, which simplifies grooming.

Read more
Griffonshire
Griffonshire

The Griffonshire is an endearing mix of the Brussels Griffon and the Yorkshire Terrier, both recognized as toy breeds. Generally, these dogs weigh between 8 and 10 pounds and reach a height of about 8 to 10 inches. Their coats can vary, featuring either a rough, wiry texture similar to that of the Brussels Griffon or long, silky strands like those of the Yorkie. To promote positive interactions with children and other pets, early socialization is essential for a Griffonshire. However, due to their small stature, it’s important not to leave them unsupervised with young children. Training may demand extra patience, and seeking help can be advantageous if difficulties arise.

Read more
Pugshire
Pugshire

The Pugshire is a compact hybrid breed that emerges from the combination of a Pug and a Yorkshire Terrier. Given that both parent breeds fall under the toy category, Pugshires usually weigh up to 12 pounds and reach a height of no more than 15 inches. Their fur is of medium length and can be found in an array of colors, such as brown, red, black, blue, silver, merle, white, brindle, pied, or various combinations of these hues. Renowned for their loving and gentle disposition, Pugshires are ideal lap dogs and devoted companions for both individuals and families. They typically coexist harmoniously with other pets and children, though it is wise to supervise their interactions with young ones to ensure safety for all involved.

Read more
Yorkie-Apso
Yorkie-Apso

The Yorkie-Apso is an endearing designer breed, created by crossing the Lhasa Apso with the Yorkshire Terrier. This small dog makes an excellent companion and is a joy to have as a family pet. Its compact size makes it ideal for apartment living or smaller residences. Typically, the Yorkie-Apso stands between 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs around 7 to 15 pounds. Unlike many other small breeds, this dog is known for its calm temperament and rarely barks. It thrives on daily attention, often leading to a pampered lifestyle where it feels like the ruler of the household.

Read more
Yorkie Pin
Yorkie Pin

The Yorkie Pin is an energetic hybrid designer dog, whose toy-like appearance belies its roots as a natural hunter and strategist. Renowned for their prowess in dealing with rodents, Yorkie Pins are the result of breeding between two breeds specifically created for rat hunting: the Yorkshire Terrier and the Miniature Pinscher. This diverse lineage gives rise to a variety of physical characteristics, as the parent breeds exhibit notably different looks. Nevertheless, Yorkie Pins consistently display a lively and friendly temperament, coupled with keen intelligence and a sense of adventure. Although they can be somewhat headstrong and their vibrant personalities may present certain challenges, these dogs are deeply affectionate and loving, making them excellent family pets and proficient mouse hunters when properly trained.

Read more
Yorkillon
Yorkillon

The Yorkillon is a captivating mix of beauty, charm, and irresistible cuteness, making it a companion you'll treasure for years. This little dog radiates style and confidence, and her playful nature is simply enchanting, especially with that sweet face. Known for being a true people pleaser, the Yorkillon will consistently be by your side, offering companionship and happiness. Often called the “dwarf spaniel,” this small yet vibrant bundle of energy will fill your home with laughter, joy, and love for many years to come!

Read more