Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Information

Personality

Yorkshire Terriers are full of personality despite their tiny size. Energetic and curious, they love to explore, so their owners should be ready for a little companion that follows them around. These dogs require plenty of mental engagement. While taking them on long walks is beneficial, playing with toys and engaging in games is essential to keep their active minds busy.

History

In the 1850s, Scottish weavers brought a little terrier with them when they moved from Scotland to Yorkshire and Lancashire. These dogs, known as Broken-Haired Scotch Terriers, were mixed with local terriers to create a breed that was great at catching pests in factories and mines. One of the advantages was that the dog was small enough to fit in its owner’s pocket. Although they started as working dogs, Yorkshire Terriers soon gained popularity among wealthy women as pets. This rise in status led to careful breeding to make them even tinier. Despite their smaller size, their coat length remained mostly unchanged.

Ideal Owner

The Yorkie is a small dog with a big personality, making it ideal for someone who enjoys a lively companion. They need frequent grooming to keep their coat nice. Yorkies prefer not to be left alone, so they are best suited for someone who spends a lot of time at home.

Exercise Needs

A brief stroll will make a Yorkie happy, especially if he has the chance to explore and sniff around the neighborhood for some mental exercise. Keep in mind that Yorkshire Terriers are not only meant for cuddling; they enjoy running, fetching, and playing just like any other dog.

Space Requirements

Yorkshire Terriers are great companions for all types of living spaces, from large country homes to small studio flats.

Training

Yorkshire Terriers are smart and can learn simple commands without much trouble. However, they can be easily distracted. It's important to train them to walk with a collar and leash. To help them feel secure around other dogs, they should be socialized in a class or a safe environment with other small dogs.

Grooming

Prepare to count how many times you brush, because a Yorkshire Terrier's fur requires daily attention to stay healthy and glossy. If your pup has a topknot, it’s important to take it out, brush it, and style it again often. Be sure to take off any rubber bands to protect the dog's lovely fur. Once you get the hang of it, you should be able to finish the daily grooming in about 15 minutes.

Suitability for Family Life

Yorkshire Terriers are tiny and fragile, so they are not the best choice for families with young, energetic kids. They thrive better in homes with older children or where there are no kids at all.

Did You know?

The Yorkshire Terrier was developed to catch rats and became tiny enough to be carried in a person's pocket. The tiniest dog on record was a Yorkie, standing at just over 2 inches high.