Dog Breed

Yorkshire Terrier

bold • confident • spirited • affectionate

OriginEngland
Lifespan13-16 years
Weight2-3 kg
Energy Levelmoderate

Quick Stats

Sizesmall
Weight2-3 kg
Lifespan13-16 years
Energy Levelmoderate
Groominghigh
Trainabilitymoderate
OriginEngland
Temperament
boldconfidentspiritedaffectionate

Overview

The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny dog with a huge personality. Originally bred to catch rats in mills, these elegant toy dogs are now beloved companions known for their silky coats, feisty nature, and unwavering devotion to their owners.

Compatibility

Children
Fair
Other Dogs
Fair
Cats
Fair
Apartment Living
Excellent

Care Guide

Yorkies need regular grooming for their long, silky coat. Despite their small size, they have bold personalities and need socialisation. They can be fragile and should be supervised around young children.

Exercise Needs

Short daily walks and indoor play are sufficient. Their small size means moderate activity meets their needs.

Grooming

Daily brushing for long coats. Many owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" for easier maintenance. Regular dental care is essential.

Health Concerns

patellar luxation
dental disease
tracheal collapse
hypoglycaemia

Fun Facts

🐶Yorkies were originally working-class dogs bred to catch rats in textile mills.
🐶A Yorkie named Smoky is considered the first therapy dog, serving in WWII.
🐶Their silky coat is more similar to human hair than typical dog fur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?
Their hair-like coat sheds minimally, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic.
Do Yorkies bark a lot?
They can be quite vocal. Early training helps manage barking tendencies.
Are Yorkies good with children?
Better with older, gentle children. Their small size makes them fragile around young children.
How long do Yorkies live?
Typically 13-16 years, making them one of the longer-lived breeds.

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