Yorkshire Terrier
Summary
The Yorkshire Terrier is, worldwide, one of the most popular dog breeds of all time — and, paradoxically, one that has most distanced itself visually from its origins. Developed in the 19th century in the industrial city of Bradford, Yorkshire, by Scottish textile workers who immigrated to England bringing their terriers, the Yorkie was initially a rat hunter in mines and textile factories. Today it is the symbol of the luxury miniature dog, with its silky floor-length coat, but retaining the courageous heart of a true terrier.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Very small
- Height (male)
- 18–20 cm
- Height (female)
- 18–20 cm
- Weight (male)
- 2–3 kg
- Weight (female)
- 2–3 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 13–16 years
- Coat
- very long, straight, shiny, fine, and silky hair (silk texture); falls straight on both sides of the body
- Common Colors
- dark steel blue (not silver, not mixed) on the body; bright tan on the head, chest, and limbs; puppies are born black-and-tan
Temperament & Personality
The Yorkshire Terrier is, in equal parts, an elegant parlor dog and an impenitent terrier. It is courageous, lively, very loyal, and protective of its owner — frequently disproportionately confident for its size. It learns easily (has excellent memory) but uses that intelligence to test limits. It can develop "small dog syndrome" if not treated as a real dog and subjected to consistent training. Excellent alarm dog.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 30–45 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Very high
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 1–2 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Chronic bronchitis
- Hypoglycemia
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
- Patellar luxation
- Portosystemic shunt
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Tracheal collapse
- Recommended Health Tests
- ECG in senior adults
- Eye examination
- Joint evaluation
- Liver evaluation
Compatibility
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
