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Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Information - Yorkshire Terriers - Yorkies

Yorkshire Terrier Breed In Brief | Yorkshire Terrier History | Yorkshire Terrier Appearance
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament  |  Yorkshire Terrier Exercise |  Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns | Yorkshire Terrier Training
Is A Yorkshire Terrier The Right Breed For You?
Online Resources | Yorkshire Terrier Pictures | Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
Yorkshire Terrier Rescues | Yorkshire Terrier Clubs |  Yorkshire Terrier Dog and Puppy Names

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed in Brief:

Origin: Scotland
Height: 6-9 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Exercise Needs: Low
Grooming Needs: High
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Good With Kids: No
Trainability: Difficult

Common Misspellings for Yorkshire Terriers: Yorkshireterriers, Yorkshure Terriers, Yorkshire Terriors, Yorkshire Terriers, Yorkshire Teriers, Yorkeys, Yorkees

Alternate Names For Yorkshire Terriers: Yorkies, Yorkie Puppies, Teacup Yorkie Puppies, Tea Cup Yorkies, Teacup Yorkshire Terriers

 

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Yorkshire Terrier History

The Yorkshire Terrier owes his existence to a now-extinct breed of dog, known as the Waterside, or Weaver, Terrier. Created from a cross of Scottish Clydesdale and Paisley Terriers, which were then bred with the English Black-and-Tan Terriers, the Waterside was well-known for his long blue-grey coat and petite size of about 10 pounds. A favored pet of many of the weavers who journeyed from Scotland into England, during the 19th century, he would then cross with the local dogs in the area and eventually produce the small Yorkshire Terrier.

At the time, Yorkies were considered a part of the working class themselves. In a time when a dog earned his keep, the Yorkshire Terrier was commonly employed in the weaving mills as a chaser of vermin. Skilled ratters, their tiny bodies were able to squirm and wiggle their ways into places that larger dogs and even cats couldn’t go, and the Yorkshire Terrier’s feisty temperament made him a ferocious fighter. The presence of the Yorkshire Terrier in the mills became so common that it was often joked that the Yorkie’s long flowing coat was the finest product to be produced on the looms.

Huddersfield Ben is generally recognized as the founding sire of the Yorkshire Terrier dog breed. Born in Huddersfield, County Yorkshire, Ben lived a short existence from 1865 to 1871. Although an accident claimed his life at a mere 6 years, he was the winner of more than 70 prizes in a variety of dog shows and ratting contests, and he was also known to breed true-to-type, the offspring that he sired consistently weighing under 5 pounds and bearing his unique characteristics. While the breed was originally known as the Broken-haired Scotch Terrier, the name would be changed to the Yorkshire Terrier, in honor and recognition of how much development of the breed had occurred within this small area.

Yorkshire Terrier Breed In Brief | Yorkshire Terrier History | Yorkshire Terrier Appearance
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament  |  Yorkshire Terrier Exercise |  Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns | Yorkshire Terrier Training
Is A Yorkshire Terrier The Right Breed For You?
Online Resources | Yorkshire Terrier Pictures | Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
Yorkshire Terrier Rescues | Yorkshire Terrier Clubs |  Yorkshire Terrier Dog and Puppy Names

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Yorkshire Terrier Appearance

The Yorkie is a toy variety of dog, weighing in at less than 7 pounds when fully grown. Black and tan as a puppy, the Yorkshire terrier’s body coat eventually becomes a rich, glossy blue and tan shade, giving him the distinctive coloration as he matures. The only recognized coloration of the Yorkshire Terrier is this variety, so beware of any trying to sell you dogs that are parti-colored or any other variety.

The Yorkie’s coat should ideally part down the center, from head to tail, with their hair falling to each side in a straight, silky mantle. Exhibitors of show dogs are allowed to trim their Yorkies’ hair so that it is floor level, though most pet Yorkshire Terriers are often kept with a short coat. Interesting to note is that a Yorkie dog’s coat is never referred to as “fur” but is, instead, called “hair.” This is due to its similarity to human hair; the Yorkie being one of the few breeds of “hypoallergenic“ dogs, who do not shed and are considered to be better than other breeds, for those who are allergic to pet dander.

While Yorkies typically weigh right around 5-7 pounds, you will often find people who advertise teacup Yorkies, miniature Yorkshire Terrier puppies, or tiny tiny Yorkie pups. This is simply a marketing gimmick that is employed by unethical breeders in order to claim higher prices for their dogs. Yorkshire breed registries do not recognize any kind of sub-standard or petite variety of the Yorkshire Terrier breed and actually advises against purchasing dogs that are advertised as teacup Yorkshire Terriers - such animals are not only extremely frail, but if they are true dwarfs or the result of heavy inbreeding, they are often very unhealthy and overrun with genetic faults and disease. While tiny teacups may be considered cute, it’s an unsound practice to breed such animals and the sale of mini Yorkies should be discouraged.

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Yorkshire Terrier Temperament

Few who have known a Yorkshire Terrier will call them a calm or placid lap dog. Born as working dogs, it’s natural instinct for the Yorkie to tear off after anything that moves - whether that is a bug on the floor, the family cat, or even their shadows, Yorkshire Terriers love to give chase. In addition to being the cat’s arch-nemesis, they are often considered to be very high-strung and nervous dogs. Perhaps this is due to inbreeding, or maybe it comes from being so tiny, the breed is generally hyper-sensitive to loud noises, fast movements, and very nervous of strangers. Due to this, they are often known as a very shy or timid dog, excitable, and can be prone to both yapping and nipping. Additionally, they also frequently suffer from Canine Separation Anxiety and can be very destructive if left alone for long periods of time or not properly crate-trained.

Yorkshire Terrier Exercise Needs

As tiny as he is, the Yorkshire Terrier does not require a great deal of exercise. In fact, more often than not, he will wear himself out by simply playing or tearing around the apartment in short bursts of playfulness. This makes him an ideal pet for someone who isn’t looking for a high-energy dog that will require long daily walks and trips to the dog park. The Yorkshire Terrier is usually content to simply go outside and do his business and then come right back in…that is, provided he’s kept on a leash and can’t go chasing off after that cat over there. Yes, Yorkshire Terriers should always be kept on a leash when outside - not only does their tiny size make them vulnerable, but so does their ego, which can often prompt the Yorkie to challenge dogs (or cars) that are 10 times their size.

Yorkshire Terrier Breed In Brief | Yorkshire Terrier History | Yorkshire Terrier Appearance
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament  |  Yorkshire Terrier Exercise |  Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns | Yorkshire Terrier Training
Is A Yorkshire Terrier The Right Breed For You?
Online Resources | Yorkshire Terrier Pictures | Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
Yorkshire Terrier Rescues | Yorkshire Terrier Clubs |  Yorkshire Terrier Dog and Puppy Names

Yorkshire Terrier Grooming Requirements

Anyone that’s ever seen one of these adorable little dogs should realize that it takes a lot of work to look that good. The Yorkshire Terrier is no exception to the rule. Requiring daily brushing and combing, the Yorkie’s long and silky hair needs regular trimming and grooming in order to prevent mats. Bathing is also important, as well as carefully blowing the coat dry, due to the dog’s frailty and risk of cold. In a nutshell, the Yorkshire Terrier takes a lot of work in order to maintain that long coat and, for this reason, unless you want to make weekly trips to the groomers, most pet Yorkie owners tend to keep their dog’s coats cut to a short and more manageable length.

Yorkshire Terrier Training

Few who have known a Yorkshire Terrier will call them a calm or placid lap dog. Born as working dogs, it’s natural instinct for the Yorkie to tear off after anything that moves - whether that is a bug on the floor, the family cat, or even their shadows, Yorkshire Terriers love to give chase. In addition to being the cat’s arch-nemesis, they are often considered to be very high-strung and nervous dogs. Perhaps this is due to inbreeding, or maybe it comes from being so tiny, the breed is generally hyper-sensitive to loud noises, fast movements, and very nervous of strangers. Due to this, they are often known as a very shy or timid dog, excitable, and can be prone to both yapping and nipping. Additionally, they also frequently suffer from Canine Separation Anxiety and can be very destructive if left alone for long periods of time or not properly crate-trained.

Yorkshire Terrier Breed In Brief | Yorkshire Terrier History | Yorkshire Terrier Appearance
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament  |  Yorkshire Terrier Exercise |  Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns | Yorkshire Terrier Training
Is A Yorkshire Terrier The Right Breed For You?
Online Resources | Yorkshire Terrier Pictures | Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
Yorkshire Terrier Rescues | Yorkshire Terrier Clubs |  Yorkshire Terrier Dog and Puppy Names

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Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns

As with all other breeds of dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is susceptible to a variety of different health problems.  Due to the extensive line-crossing and inbreeding that commonly occurs in pedigreed dogs, as well as the unethical practices of some breeders, one must take care when selecting a Yorkshire Terrier puppy.  Here are some of the conditions that the breed is more susceptible to:

• Collapsing trachea
• Cushing's Disease
• Eclampsia
• Hemorrhagic gastric enteritis (HGE)
• Hypoglycemia
• Legg-Calve-Perthes (LCP)
• Liver shunts
• Pancreatitis
• Luxation of the patella
• Pharyngeal gag reflex (also known as reverse sneezing)

Is the Yorkshire Terrier the Right Breed For You?

This is a very commonly asked question and yet, it is still not asked enough. Before purchasing a Yorkshire puppy, one should first take their lifestyle into careful consideration. The Yorkshire Terrier is a very frail little dog and does not do well in a household with children (both from risk of injury as well as the noise tending to make them very nervous and excitable). One must also be very careful of the Yorkie with other pets, such as larger dogs that can injure him, accidentally, during play.

Yorkies are often difficult to socialize, as well. They tend to be very nervous and high strung, which commonly makes them yappers or prone to nip. Left alone for long periods of time, this breed can also be highly destructive and frequently suffers from Canine Separation Anxiety. Of course, for many, the good outweighs the bad and the Yorkshire Terrier is worth it. Known to be very affectionate towards their owners as well as being considered to be an ideal pet for those who are allergic to pet dander, it all depends on your lifestyle and the dog you choose in the end. Take your time and pick wisely, and you’re sure to find a wonderful pet with lots of love to share.

Yorkshire Terrier Breed In Brief | Yorkshire Terrier History | Yorkshire Terrier Appearance
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament  |  Yorkshire Terrier Exercise |  Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
Yorkshire Terrier Health Concerns | Yorkshire Terrier Training
Is A Yorkshire Terrier The Right Breed For You?
Online Resources | Yorkshire Terrier Pictures | Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
Yorkshire Terrier Rescues | Yorkshire Terrier Clubs |  Yorkshire Terrier Dog and Puppy Names

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Online Yorkshire Terrier Breed Information Resources

There are a wealth of resources online that can help you learn more about the Yorkshire Terrier breed. We've compiled a list of Yorkshire Terrier information sites to assist you in quickly locating quality information about the Yorkshire Terrier breed, while avoiding the "garbage" sites that are nothing more than poor attempts to capitalize on the popularity of dog breeds in general. If you know of a Yorkshire Terrier information site that offers unique, quality information and photos of the Yorkshire Terrier breed, please contact us with the URL and a brief description so that our editors can consider it for inclusion in our list below.

• Yorkshire Terrier Dogs and Puppies
• Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dogs Central
• Wikipedia - Yorkshire Terriers

Yorkshire Terrier Pictures

Yorkshire Terrier dogs are a very photogenic dog breed. By looking at Yorkshire Terrier pictures, you can usually gain more insight into what these dogs and puppies are like as a breed, and this can help you decide if you really want to become a Yorkshire Terrier owner. The following sites below offer pictures of Yorkshire Terrier dogs, Yorkshire Terrier puppy photos, funny Yorkshire Terrier photos and more. Enjoy!

• Yorkshire Terrier Dog Pictures

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Buying a Yorkshire Terrier Puppy

Teacup Yorkshire Terrier ALERT!!

Whether you call them Teacup Yorkshire Terriers, Tea Cup Yorkies, Toy Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Yorkshire Terriers, or Mini Yorkshire Terriers, buying  the smallest Yorkie puppy you can find is a sure recipe for a teacup full of heartache! Responsible breeders occasionally will have a puppy that is smaller than it's littermates (it's what we once referred to as the "runt" of the litter). Any breeder that selectively breeds to create a smaller and smaller puppy is not a breeder with whom you want to do business. The reason for this is that smaller puppies usually have a number of health problems. They can suffer from Hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), knee and hip problems, brain defects, kidney problems, heart problems and more. What's more, these itty bitty dogs are as delicate as flowers, and can easily be injured or killed by being accidentally stepped on or kicked, or from something as seemingly innocent as a fall off of the sofa or bed. Don't buy into this unfortunate trend! Dogs are pets - not fashion accessories or toys. Be sure to buy your Yorkshire Terrier puppy only from a responsible, reputable Yorkshire Terrier dog breeder. Avoid any breeder who advertises "Teacup, Miniature, Toy or Mini" Yorkshire Terrier puppies.

Now that you have decided that the Yorkshire Terrier is the right breed for you, it's time to start the process of finding a responsible Yorkshire Terrier breeder from which to buy a healthy, well-socialized puppy. Not all breeders are alike; there are good breeders - and bad breeders. Don't be in a hurry to buy the first Yorkshire Terrier puppy you find at the cheapest price available! To buy a puppy from a responsible Yorkshire Terrier breeder, you may need to pay more and wait longer. The additional money and waiting time will be well worth it. Buy a puppy in haste from a newspaper ad, pet store or "backyard breeder", and you'll likely also purchase a great deal of additional expense and heartache, since you will likely end up falling in love with a puppy with health and behavioral problems that will likely need special care, plenty of veterinary visits, regular medication - or even euthanasia. But do your homework and find a responsible, caring Yorkshire Terrier breeder who home-raises their puppies with love, screens their breeding dogs for health problems, offers a health guarantee and post sale support, and who genuinely loves the Yorkshire Terrier breed and is in it for the love of the breed, rather than profit, and you can be fairly well assured of getting a healthy, happy, long lived and affectionate family companion that will provide you and your family with many years of joy, laughter and companionship.

Further information about choosing a responsible breeder...

Here are a few breeder directory sites that we recommend. These sites attempt to screen advertisers to ensure that the breeders listed are responsible and sell healthy, home-raised Yorkshire Terrier puppies to carefully screened buyers. There are many, many sites now online that advertise dog breeders - many are a Mecca for puppy mills and backyard breeders. We recommend that you steer clear of these resources in favor of sites that are more selective in the breeders whom they allow to advertise.

We Highly Recommend:

• USA Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
• Canada Yorkshire Terrier Breeders
• Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dogs Central
• Yorkshire Terrier Puppies For Sale
• Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breeders
• Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Stork
• Yorkshire Terrier Breeders Showcase
• Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Finder on Pet Net

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Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie Rescue

Yorkshire Terrier clubs and rescues web sites can help you learn even more about the Yorkshire Terrier dog breed, help you locate a responsible Yorkshire Terrier breeder, or help you find a Yorkshire Terrier or puppy in need of a second chance for a loving, forever home. We've compiled the following list of Yorkshire Terrier clubs and Yorkshire Terrier rescues web sites for your convenience:

• OK Yorkie Rescue - Volunteer group helping animals in need. Information on fostering, adoption, and available dogs. Oklahoma.
• United Yorkie Rescue - Not for profit organization. Contains mission statement, information on available dogs and FAQ.
• Yorkie Haven Rescue - Available dogs, adoption information, success stories and donor's list.
• Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue Inc. - Dogs available for adoption, applications for volunteers and adoption, and success stories.

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Yorkshire Terrier Tapestry Throw
This Yorkshire Terrier Pedigree Collection throw, by Artist Linda Picken, is a pet lovers dream! Cuddle close with your cherished companion in this comfortable throw. Crafted in North Carolina, this woven throw represents a heritage of excellence and American pride. Click to purchase online.