Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is one of the most distinguished small dog breeds due to its elegant, silky coat combined with a surprisingly bold and energetic nature. Despite their compact size, Yorkies exhibit a lively personality marked by courage and intelligence, making them outstanding companions for diverse lifestyles, including city living and country homes alike.

Originally bred in the UK to control vermin infestations in industrial settings, the Yorkshire Terrier retains a notable prey drive and tenacity, balanced by a tender and playful disposition. Their finely textured, flowing coat requires regular maintenance, reflecting their unique appearance as one of the most glamorous among terriers. Yorkies are deeply affectionate and bond closely with their families, thriving on interaction and mental stimulation.

This breed suits owners seeking a lively, intelligent, and spirited small dog who can dedicate time to grooming and consistent training. The Yorkie adapts well to various environments, particularly for those in smaller homes or flats, provided their exercise and social needs are met. Their vocal tendencies and sensitivity to loneliness highlight the importance of responsible ownership and ensuring they remain emotionally engaged.

Care involves daily exercise that balances their energy levels with appropriate mental challenges and meticulous grooming routines to maintain coat health. This combination of attributes makes the Yorkshire Terrier a rewarding and charming addition to family life.

Perfect For

Individuals or families living in urban flats or smaller homes who are prepared to commit to daily grooming and engagement; first-time dog owners seeking a bright, manageable terrier; those desiring a small watchdog with a confident disposition; pet lovers looking for an adaptable, affectionate companion.

Key Considerations

The Yorkie’s silky coat demands daily brushing and regular professional grooming; strong prey instincts require supervision around small pets; prone to separation anxiety, they must not be left alone for long periods; early and ongoing socialisation is essential to manage barking and territorial behaviour effectively.

The Yorkshire Terrier originated in the mid-19th century in the industrial towns of Yorkshire and Lancashire, derived from a blend of small terriers carried northward by Scottish weavers. Foundational breeds such as the Manchester Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and Maltese contributed to the Yorkie's development. This breed was initially appreciated for its ratting abilities in mills and domestic settings, combining the working terrier's tenacity with an elegant appearance.

Early Development

By 1861, these dogs were showcased as "Scotch Terriers," reflecting Scottish influence, but later the title shifted to Yorkshire Terrier around 1870 to emphasise the breed's strong regional ties. The Kennel Club recognised the breed formally in 1874, soon after its inception, instituting standards that valued both functionality in vermin control and refined looks. Influential sires like Huddersfield Ben are noted for shaping the breed's consistent type and enduring character traits.

Modern Recognition

Yorkshire Terriers quickly gained popularity beyond the UK, achieving recognition by international bodies such as the American Kennel Club. No longer primarily working terriers, they have transitioned mainly to beloved companion roles. Breed clubs in the UK today maintain standards, organise specialty shows, and uphold the Yorkie's reputation worldwide, reflecting its sustained appeal despite evolving canine trends.

The Yorkshire Terrier stands out with a compact, well-balanced frame blending daintiness and muscularity, capped by its famous long and silky coat that resembles human hair in texture and sheen.

Size and Build

Adult Yorkies typically stand between 20 to 24 cm tall at the withers and weigh around 3.2 kg, representing an ideal size within the toy breed category. Their body is compact with a moderate rib spring and a level back, ensuring a stable and balanced posture. Straight forelimbs and hindquarters are covered in vibrant golden tan hair that lightens at the tips, supporting an agile and buoyant gait.

Coat and Colours

The hallmark of the Yorkie is its fine, straight hair that grows continuously, requiring careful daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Accepted coat colours according to Kennel Club standards include black and tan, blue and tan, steel blue, as well as combinations like black blue and tan or steel grey and tan. Typically, the body displays a glossy dark steel blue shade from the occiput to the base of the tail, contrasting with lively tan on the chest, face, and legs.

Distinctive Features

Yorkies have a small, refined head with a jet-black nose and short muzzle. Their medium-sized, dark eyes radiate intelligence and alertness, while their ears are V-shaped, erect, and covered with shorter tan hair. The tail is carried high, richly coated, and adds to the dog’s poised silhouette. Their gait is free and spirited, with a level topline showing remarkable ground coverage despite their small stature.

Gender Differences

Males and females share similar height and weight, though males may exhibit slightly greater muscle tone and a sturdier frame. Temperamentally, males tend to be more territorial and protective, while females often display marginally higher sociability and a slightly quieter nature. Both require the same rigorous grooming regimen to maintain the luxurious coat.

The Yorkshire Terrier carries a feisty, intelligent, and affectionate personality with a distinctive terrier character that blends boldness and loyalty.

Core Personality Traits

Fearless and spirited, Yorkies demonstrate a zest for life and a sharp intellect that makes them quick learners eager to please. Their playful demeanour lasts long into adulthood, maintaining a youthful vigour. However, their small size belies a confident watchdog instinct, often assuming roles of alert guardian.

Social Behavior

Strong bonds with their primary human carers are typical, with some Yorkies showing preference for one household member. Protective and territorial tendencies can lead to excessive barking and alerting behaviours. Well-planned early socialisation is crucial to temper this and ensure balanced interaction with strangers and other pets. Due to their historical vermin-hunting role, they may be wary or intolerant of unfamiliar small animals.

Working Instincts

Despite their role today as companions, Yorkshire Terriers maintain strong terrier instincts such as a high prey drive and determination to chase rodents. This can manifest in persistent pursuit and territorial marking behaviours, which require behavioural management through training and redirected activities.

Common Behavioral Challenges

Lack of proper socialisation may result in problematic barking, possessiveness, and potential neighbour disputes. Susceptibility to separation anxiety may cause vocalisation and destructive tendencies if left alone for extended periods. Consistent training, mental enrichment, and defined behavioural boundaries help mitigate these issues effectively.

The Yorkshire Terrier’s high intelligence and eagerness make training a rewarding experience if approached with patience and a structured plan.

Puppy Training Priorities

Early exposure to diverse environments, people, and animals is vital within the first six months to foster confidence and adaptability. House training requires patience due to their small bladders and occasional stubborn streaks. Basic commands like sit, stay, come, and quiet should be introduced early to establish manners.

Training Methods That Work

Positive reinforcement techniques, including treats and verbal praise, work best, promoting motivation and engagement. Harnesses are preferred over collars to reduce the risk of tracheal damage. Crate training provides a safe retreat and aids house training. Short, engaging sessions maintain attention and enthusiasm, with consistency among all family members reinforcing progress.

Advanced Training Potential

Yorkshire Terriers excel in small dog agility, obedience, and trick competitions, benefiting from activities that challenge their intelligence and agility. Lifelong training keeps their mind sharp and behaviour balanced.

Common Training Mistakes

Inconsistency and impatience risk stubbornness and anxiety. Harsh corrections are detrimental. Feeding-based motivation should be varied with play and praise to avoid disengagement. Early management of vocal tendencies through socialisation is essential.

The suitability of Yorkshire Terriers for families varies based on children’s age and interaction dynamics, notably due to the breed's delicate size.

Age-Specific Interactions

Yorkies are generally better suited to older children who understand and respect gentle handling. While tolerant of younger children if raised together, toddlers and very young children pose risk due to potential roughness and unintentional injury.

Teaching Children Proper Interaction

Teaching children respectful behaviour includes enforcing rules such as supervised handling, no rough play, and recognising signs of dog stress to prevent nips or bites. Calm, gentle interaction is essential.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Yorkies’ active and vocal nature requires preparation for lively play sessions. Their small bone structure makes them vulnerable to injury, and territorial instincts may make them wary of unfamiliar children or guests.

Creating Safe Environments

Supervision during play and providing the Yorkie with quiet spaces to retreat are key. Adult oversight ensures safety and comfort for both dog and child.

The Yorkshire Terrier enjoys a lifespan of approximately 13 to 16 years, but owners must be vigilant about breed-specific health challenges common in small terriers.

Breed-Specific Health Conditions

Frequent health concerns include dental disease due to small jaws, patella luxation causing knee instability, tracheal collapse affecting breathing, and portosystemic shunts impacting liver function. Hypoglycaemia in puppies and smaller dogs is common, requiring frequent feeding to maintain stable blood sugar. Eye disorders such as hereditary cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and primary lens luxation are also recorded.

Genetic Testing Requirements

Recommended health screenings under BVA/Kennel Club guidelines include tests for hereditary cataracts (HC), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), primary lens luxation (PLL), and Chiari malformation Syringomyelia (CMSM). Responsible breeding utilising these tests reduces incidence of these conditions.

Preventive Healthcare Schedule

Vaccinations begin at eight weeks with boosters following at 10 to 12 weeks. Regular dental hygiene, parasite control, and annual vet checks help maintain wellness. Diet and exercise management mitigates obesity and related health issues.

Insurance Considerations

Pet insurance is advised due to hereditary conditions and dental risks. Coverage that includes genetic conditions offers best protection. Premiums vary with age and location.

Yorkshire Terriers require diligent daily care to uphold both their physical health and the distinctive glossy coat that characterizes the breed.

Daily Care Routine

Typical days involve two short exercise sessions of around 15 to 20 minutes each, complemented by mental activities such as training or interactive toys. Daily grooming with thorough brushing prevents mats, combined with routine dental care. Feeding multiple small meals helps maintain blood sugar, especially important for this small breed.

Living Environment Needs

The breed adapts well to apartment or house living provided secure access to outdoor spaces and regular walks. They require warm, draft-free resting areas, as their fine coat offers minimal insulation. Protective clothing is advisable in cold weather, and outdoor areas must be securely fenced to prevent escapes.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

In winter, Yorkies benefit from soft coats and limited exposure to ice and wetness to guard against colds and illnesses. Summer care involves careful hydration, shaded rest, and monitoring for overheating. Grooming routines may shift seasonally to keep the coat healthy and manageable.

Senior Care Adaptations

As they age, arthritic issues may arise; low-impact exercise and comfy bedding improve quality of life. Senior diets and veterinary check-ups ensure ongoing health, while mental engagement aids cognitive wellness.

Due to their unique silky coats, Yorkshire Terriers require attentive grooming throughout their lives to maintain their beauty and health.

Coat Maintenance Schedule

Daily brushing is essential, ideally using a pin brush and fine-toothed comb to gently remove tangles and prevent mats. This process typically requires 15 to 30 minutes, focusing on delicate areas like ears and under the legs. Regular bathing every 2 to 4 weeks with gentle, skin-friendly shampoos followed by conditioner keeps the coat soft and lustrous.

Professional Grooming Requirements

Professional grooming visits every 6 to 8 weeks are recommended for coat trimming, hygiene maintenance, and styling. Popular trims include the "Westie" cut, the square puppy trim, and close clips designed for easier upkeep while ensuring comfort and cleanliness.

Home Grooming Techniques

Owners should equip themselves with appropriate tools such as body combs, dematting rakes, pin and bristle brushes, detangling sprays, and hair bands for topknots. Routine ear cleaning prevents infections, while daily dental care is critical to mitigate the breed’s predisposition to dental disease.

Common Grooming Challenges

Maintaining a tangle-free coat can be difficult due to the fine texture and constant growth, requiring vigilance. Skin irritations and occasional seasonal shedding, though minimal, need observation and proper management. Calm, reward-based grooming sessions keep the dog cooperative throughout.

Though small, Yorkshire Terriers have high exercise needs to maintain both physical and mental wellbeing.

Daily Exercise Requirements

Yorkies benefit from approximately 30 to 40 minutes of daily activity, broken into manageable sessions due to their stamina limits. This includes moderate walks, active play in secure areas, and mental stimulation through puzzles or training.

Suitable Activities

Fetch games, small-dog agility, scent and puzzle toys, as well as indoor obstacle courses, provide excellent outlets for their terrier energy and intelligence. Controlled social walks and exploration support mental and social health.

Exercise Restrictions

Puppies must avoid high-impact activities to protect developing joints. Cold weather demands shorter outings with protective attire. Avoid prolonged exercise on hard surfaces to minimise joint stress.

Mental Stimulation Ideas

Interactive feeders, scent games, structured training, and varied play ensure cognitive enrichment, helping prevent behavioural issues like nuisance barking or destructiveness.

Proper nutrition tailored to the Yorkshire Terrier’s size and energetic nature is essential for lifelong health.

Nutritional Requirements

Yorkies thrive on a high-protein diet with moderate fats to sustain energy without promoting excess weight. Omega fatty acids are beneficial for skin and coat health. Caloric needs adapt with age and activity level.

Feeding Schedule Guidelines

Puppies require up to four meals daily until six months of age, tapering to three meals and eventually two as adults. Portions vary but generally range from 49g to 92g for puppies and around 47g to 89g for adults, adjusted based on weight and metabolism.

Special Dietary Considerations

Allergens such as wheat or certain proteins may require elimination diets. Supplements like glucosamine can support joint health. Avoiding human table scraps and high-fat treats helps maintain ideal weight.

Weight Management

Regular weighing and adjusting portions paired with proper exercise prevent obesity, which is a risk with small breeds. Maintaining a healthy body condition score is vital for longevity.

The current market in the UK shows that Yorkshire Terrier puppies from licensed breeders typically range from £1,200 to £2,100, reflecting the breed's sustained demand and high pedigree value. Individual breeders generally offer prices between £800 and £1,000. Exceptional lineage or rare coat colours may command a premium. Prices may vary regionally and seasonally.

Purchase Prices

Show-quality Yorkies often command higher prices due to breeding quality, titles, and conformation to the breed standard, while pet-quality dogs are more affordable. Breed colours and markings also influence value.

Initial Setup Costs

Essential items include a harness (preferred for tracheal safety), bowls, grooming tools (pin brush, comb, dematting rake), a quality bed, dental supplies, and safe playpens, generally costing £100 to £200.

Ongoing Monthly Expenses

Food costs average £20 to £30 monthly for breed-appropriate quality. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks ranges from £30 to £50 per session. Routine veterinary care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention, averages £40 monthly.

Lifetime Cost Considerations

Insurance premiums vary from £14 to £40 monthly depending on coverage and age. Potential health care expenses for hereditary issues, dental treatments, and training classes should be incorporated into long-term budgeting.

Buying a Yorkshire Terrier involves thoughtful research and cautious selection to ensure responsible ownership and the health of the dog.

Finding Ethical Breeders

Seek out licensed breeders specialising in Yorkshire Terriers with strong reputations. Visiting breeders to assess their facilities, meet the dam, and view puppy conditions is essential. Avoid online-only sellers and insist on seeing pups in person before financial commitments.

Health Testing Verification

Obtain all relevant health clearances for patella luxation, PRA, and hereditary cataracts. Confirm vaccinations and microchipping are current. Participation in the Kennel Club’s Assured Breeder scheme is a positive sign of ethical practices.

Puppy Selection Process

Evaluate puppy temperament for social confidence and health status via veterinary checks. Avoid overly small Yorkies due to health fragilities. Temperament testing helps ensure a good match for your household.

Contract and Guarantee Review

Ensure a clear written contract covering health guarantees, return policies, and breeder obligations. Be wary of sellers who rush or lack transparency.

Rescue and Adoption Options

Consider Yorkie rescues when available. Adoption offers a second chance for loving homes and helps reduce demand on breeders.