Yorkshire Terrier
A tiny terrier with a glamorous silky coat and a personality far bigger than its size. Originally bred to catch rats in Yorkshire mills, the Yorkie is now a beloved companion worldwide.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Yorkshire Terrier may be a glamorous little dog today, but its origins are firmly working class. Developed in the mid-19th century in the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire, the breed was created by mill workers and miners who needed a small, quick terrier to catch rats in the textile mills and coal mines of northern England. The exact mix of breeds that produced the Yorkie is debated, but Clydesdale Terriers, Paisley Terriers, and Waterside Terriers were all likely contributors.
The breed quickly outgrew its humble beginnings. By the late Victorian era, the Yorkshire Terrier had become a fashionable companion among the upper classes, its stunning silky coat and feisty personality winning fans in drawing rooms across England. The Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1886, and by the early 20th century it had become one of the most popular toy breeds in Britain. Today, the Yorkie remains a hugely popular dog, particularly among those looking for a small companion with a big character.
Appearance
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, elegant dog, typically weighing no more than 3.2 kg. Despite their diminutive size, they carry themselves with a confident, almost regal bearing. The breed's most striking feature is its coat, a long, straight, silky fall of steel blue and rich tan that parts along the spine and hangs evenly on either side of the body.
In show condition, the coat reaches the floor and requires considerable maintenance. Most pet Yorkies are kept in a shorter "puppy clip" for practicality. Their small, V-shaped ears stand erect, giving them an alert, inquisitive expression, and their dark, sparkling eyes convey a lively intelligence. The overall impression is of a well-proportioned, compact little dog that is far tougher than it looks.
Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?
Yorkshire Terriers are adaptable little dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from country cottages to city apartments. They do not need vast amounts of space, but they do need company, stimulation, and regular interaction with their owners. Yorkies are not the sort of dog you can leave to entertain themselves all day.
Despite their toy status, Yorkies retain strong terrier instincts. They can be surprisingly feisty, bold, and opinionated. They are not always the best choice for families with very young children, as their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury, and they may snap if handled roughly. They tend to bond closely with one or two people and can be reserved with strangers.
- Well suited to singles, couples, and families with older, gentle children
- Excellent choice for flat or apartment living
- Good for owners who enjoy grooming and coat care
- May not suit households with very young children or larger, boisterous dogs
Living with a Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are surprisingly adaptable dogs that fit well into many different lifestyles. Their small size makes them practical for urban living, and they are easily portable, fitting into carriers for trips on public transport, visits to dog-friendly cafes, and holidays. Many UK businesses welcome small dogs, and a well-behaved Yorkie is an easy companion to take along.
At home, Yorkies are lively, entertaining, and surprisingly vocal. They are natural watchdogs who will alert you to every knock at the door, passing pedestrian, and rustling leaf. Managing their barking is an important part of Yorkie ownership, as it can quickly escalate if unchecked. They are affectionate dogs who love to sit on laps, burrow under blankets, and generally stay as close to their favourite human as possible.
Yorkies can be slow to housetrain compared to larger breeds, partly because their small bladders mean they need to go out more frequently. Patience and consistency are essential. Crate training can be very helpful during the housetraining phase. In colder, wetter British weather, many Yorkies appreciate a waterproof coat for walks, as their fine, silky fur does not provide much insulation.
Training Tips
Yorkshire Terriers are clever dogs who can learn a wide range of commands and tricks. However, they have the classic terrier stubbornness, and training requires patience and persistence. The biggest mistake owners make with Yorkies is letting bad behaviour slide because the dog is small and cute. A Yorkie that growls, snaps, or refuses to come when called is no less problematic than a large dog doing the same.
Positive reinforcement using small, tasty treats works best. Keep sessions brief, around five to ten minutes, and end on a positive note. Socialisation is particularly important for Yorkies, as without it they can become nervous, snappy, or excessively reactive. Expose your puppy to a range of people, other dogs, and everyday situations to build confidence.
- Begin housetraining immediately, with frequent trips outside and lots of praise for success
- Teach your Yorkie to accept being handled, groomed, and examined from an early age
- Work on "quiet" commands to manage their natural tendency to bark
- Avoid carrying your Yorkie everywhere, as they need to walk and explore on their own feet to build confidence
Temperament
Do not let the pretty face fool you. Beneath the silky coat lies a true terrier spirit, bold, confident, and more than willing to stand its ground. Yorkshire Terriers have no concept of their own size and will happily confront dogs many times larger than themselves. This bravery is charming but can also land them in trouble, so owners need to be watchful in situations where the Yorkie's confidence might exceed its physical capabilities.
Yorkies are intensely loyal to their owners and often form an especially strong bond with one person. They are affectionate, enjoy physical closeness, and can become quite possessive of their favourite human. This devotion is endearing, but it can lead to jealousy or possessive behaviour if not managed through proper socialisation and training.
Their terrier heritage means they retain a keen prey drive and will chase small animals with enthusiasm. They are alert, curious, and always interested in what is happening around them. Yorkies are also surprisingly good watchdogs, alerting their owners to any disturbance with sharp, persistent barking.
With strangers, Yorkies can be either friendly or reserved, depending on their individual personality and how well they have been socialised. They tend to be most at ease in familiar surroundings with people they know and trust. Some can be nervous or snappy in unfamiliar situations, which makes early socialisation all the more important.
Exercise Needs
Yorkshire Terriers need less exercise than many people assume, but they are not purely lap dogs. Around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily is usually sufficient, split into two walks with some play time at home. They enjoy exploring parks and gardens, sniffing around on walks, and playing with toys indoors.
Their small size means they can get a reasonable amount of exercise within the home, but outdoor walks remain important for mental stimulation and socialisation. Yorkies benefit from varied routes and new environments to keep their curious minds engaged. In wet or cold weather, which is common in the UK, a waterproof dog coat helps keep them comfortable on walks.
Despite their modest exercise requirements, Yorkies should not become couch potatoes. Lack of activity leads to weight gain, which puts strain on their tiny joints, and boredom, which leads to behavioural problems. Short, engaging walks combined with indoor games and training sessions are the ideal combination for this breed.
Grooming
Grooming is where Yorkshire Terrier ownership becomes a commitment. The breed's long, silky coat requires regular care to prevent tangles, matting, and skin issues. If you keep your Yorkie in full show coat, daily brushing and combing is essential, along with regular bathing and conditioning. Most pet owners opt for a shorter trim, which is far more practical and still looks smart.
Even with a shorter clip, Yorkies need brushing several times a week and professional grooming every six to eight weeks. Their hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, which means it needs regular cutting. Pay particular attention to the hair around the eyes, ears, and paws, which can become matted if neglected.
One advantage of the Yorkie coat is that it is closer to human hair than typical dog fur, which means they produce less dander and may be more tolerable for allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Regular dental care is critical for Yorkies, as small breeds are particularly prone to dental disease. Brush their teeth several times a week and schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your vet.
Health
Yorkshire Terriers are generally long-lived dogs, often reaching 14 to 16 years, but their small size predisposes them to certain health conditions. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its groove, is common in the breed and can range from mild to severe. In serious cases, surgical correction may be needed.
Dental disease is one of the biggest health concerns for Yorkies. Their small mouths can lead to overcrowded teeth, creating ideal conditions for plaque and tartar build-up. Regular dental care, including brushing at home and professional cleanings, is essential for preventing painful tooth decay and gum disease.
Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt) is a congenital condition that occasionally affects the breed, where blood bypasses the liver and toxins are not properly filtered. Symptoms may include poor growth, vomiting, and seizures. Tracheal collapse, where the windpipe weakens and narrows, can cause a characteristic honking cough and breathing difficulties. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) is a concern in very young or very small Yorkies and requires careful management through regular, small meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yorkshire Terriers hypoallergenic?
Yorkies are often described as hypoallergenic because their hair is similar to human hair and they produce less dander than many breeds. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic. People with allergies should spend time with a Yorkie before committing to ownership.
How big do Yorkshire Terriers get?
Yorkshire Terriers typically weigh between 2 and 3.2 kg and stand around 20 cm at the shoulder. They are one of the smallest terrier breeds. Be cautious of breeders advertising "teacup" Yorkies, as extremely small dogs often have serious health problems.
Can Yorkshire Terriers be left alone?
Yorkies form strong bonds with their owners and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods. They can develop separation anxiety if left regularly for more than four hours. If you work full-time, consider arranging for a dog walker or companion during the day.
Do Yorkies get along with other dogs?
With proper socialisation, Yorkies can get along well with other dogs. However, they can be feisty and may not back down from confrontations with much larger dogs. Supervised introductions and ongoing socialisation are important to ensure good relationships.
How often should a Yorkshire Terrier be groomed?
Yorkies need brushing several times a week and professional grooming every six to eight weeks. Dogs kept in full show coat require daily brushing. Regular dental care is also essential, as the breed is prone to dental problems.
Are Yorkshire Terriers good for first-time owners?
Yorkies can be a reasonable choice for first-time owners who are prepared for the grooming commitment and understand that small dogs still need training and socialisation. Their manageable size and moderate exercise needs make them less overwhelming than many breeds.
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