Yorkshire Terrier
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, affectionate pup. They may be a bit stubborn, but make great dogs and do well in apartments.
Average size and lifespan
Weight: 4-7lbs
Lifespan: 12 - 15 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
Yorkshire Terrier Information
This popular toy dog packs a lot of personality into a small, spritely package. The 6th most popular dog in the United States, the Yorkshire Terrier is an affectionate and spirited breed. He needs strong leadership; otherwise, he tends to be bossy. With the right amount of training, however, this dog is a loving member of any family. Naturally adaptable, he does well in many different types of environments.
The Yorkie traces its history back to the Waterside Terrier. Today he has won over legions of fans thanks to his tiny, sweet face, beautiful black and tan coat, and lively, larger-than-life personality.
Yorkshire Terrier History
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, originated in Yorkshire (northern England) in the mid-19th century. Workers from Scotland came to Yorkshire for work and brought several varieties of small terriers with them, which were bred into the Yorkie.
Yorkshire Terrier Training & Temperament
Yorkies love their owners and can be trained for obedience as well as agility tasks. They may be a bit stubborn, so it’s best to socialize and train them from a young age and take it slowly. Introduce them to many different people and situations so they become comfortable.
Exercise
Yorkies need a medium amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include a short walk and playing with a ball inside or in the yard. They can also be taught to participate in dog sports like obedience and agility to engage their body and mind.
Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
The Yorkie can have its hair kept long, which requires daily brushing, or short, which needs less maintenance. If kept long, it’s important to trim the hair from their eyes or keep it tied up. They’ll need baths, and their ears should be checked for issues that require cleaning.
Health
Yorkies are generally healthy. Limit their jumping as a puppy to prevent possible knee issues. Watch for possible eye conditions and keep the hair out of them.
Are you getting this breed? Check out our list of Yorkie name ideas.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yorkshire_Terrier, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/yorkshire-terrier/
All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can Yorkshire Terriers be apartment dogs?
The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent apartment dog. They don't need as much space for activity and will be happy in a condo or apartment.
Can Yorkshire Terriers be left alone?
Yorkshire Terriers are extremely social and need lots of interaction with their owners. They don't like being left alone and will likely become destructive or anxious if left for long periods.
Are Yorkshire Terriers good with kids?
Yorkshire Terriers can be difficult to handle with the rowdy behavior of a child. They should be watched very closely.
Are Yorkshire Terriers friendly with strangers?
Yorkshire Terriers tend to be uncomfortable with strangers. They will require extra training effort to socialize them with those outside their family.
Do Yorkshire Terriers get along with other dogs?
Yorkshire Terriers aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend to not get along unless carefully socialized.
Do Yorkshire Terriers bark a lot?
Yorkshire Terriers don't bark very often of may never bark. Most barking is trained or in extreme situations.
Do Yorkshire Terriers shed a lot?
The Yorkshire Terrier rarely, or never, sheds. They're excellent for someone who doesn't want to clean up much dog hair.
Do Yorkshire Terriers need a lot of grooming?
Expect Yorkshire Terriers to require regular grooming. Their coats will need brushing and continued maintenance.
Do Yorkshire Terriers need a lot of exercise?
A Yorkshire Terrier will need a moderate amount of exercise to be happy. You'll need to plan some basic walks or fetch during the day.
Are Yorkshire Terriers easy to train?
Most Yorkshire Terriers are stubborn and will take extra work to train. They can still learn trained behaviors, but will take more effort.
Can Yorkshire Terriers handle cold weather?
Yorkshire Terriers don't like the cold and will likely want some protection if outside for long.
Can Yorkshire Terriers handle hot weather?
Be careful with Yorkshire Terriers in the heat. They don't do well in hot climates for long periods.
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