Don’t let their tiny size fool you—Yorkshire Terriers are bursting with charm, attitude, and energy.
Originally bred in England to catch rats in textile mills, these toy group dogs have become beloved companion pets worldwide.
Whether you’re considering adopting from a Yorkie rescue, purchasing from Yorkie breeders, or already own one of these loyal dog breeds, understanding the Yorkshire Terrier is essential.
In this article, you’ll learn everything from Yorkie grooming tips and puppy training advice to their unique temperament and health needs. We’ll explore:
- Their origin and breed-specific traits
- How to care for their silky coat
- Common Yorkie behavior quirks
- What to feed these hypoallergenic dogs
With insights from AKC standards, veterinarians, and dog behaviorists, this guide will help you raise a happy, healthy Yorkie in any home—from city apartments to family households.
Yorkshire Terrier Breed Statistics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Yorkshire Terrier |
| Group | Toy Group |
| Origin | England |
| AKC Recognition | Yes (since 1885) |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 7–8 inches (at the shoulder) |
| Weight | 4–7 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Long, silky, straight |
| Color Variations | Blue & tan, black & gold |
| Shedding Level | Low |
| Grooming Needs | High (daily brushing, regular trims) |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (daily walks and play) |
| Barking Level | High |
| Good with Kids | Yes (better with older children) |
| Good with Other Pets | Usually, if socialized early |
| Trainability | Moderate (intelligent but can be stubborn) |
| Common Health Issues | Dental disease, tracheal collapse, hypoglycemia |
| Diet Needs | High-quality toy breed dog food |
| Suitable For | Apartments, seniors, singles, families |
| Temperament | Affectionate, bold, energetic |
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament and Behavior
Personality Traits
The Yorkshire Terrier may be small, but their personality is anything but. These portable pets pack confidence and boldness into their tiny frame.
My Yorkie, Bella, strutted into a room of large dogs last week without hesitation. This confident personality is typical of the breed.
Their intelligence shines through daily—from learning tricks to manipulating owners for treats.
Yorkshire Terriers show incredible loyalty and attachment to owners. Mine follows me everywhere. Bathroom? Kitchen? She’s there.
This devotion makes them excellent companions, especially for those living in pet-friendly housing.
Despite their size, Yorkies make excellent watchdogs. Their terrier behavior traits include:
- Alertness to unusual sounds
- Territorial barking when strangers approach
- Protective instincts toward their family
- Quick reactions to environmental changes
The Yorkshire Terrier Club of America notes this combination of traits makes them ideal for various living situations.
Social Behavior
With family, these dogs are affectionate and form strong bonds. They often choose a favorite person, though they’ll distribute love to everyone.
Around children, caution is necessary. Their small breed health issues make them vulnerable to rough handling.
Supervision is essential, as is teaching kids proper interaction with this toy dog variety.
Regarding strangers, most Yorkies are initially suspicious. This protective small dog behavior makes them excellent alarm systems.
Proper puppy socialization helps moderate excessive wariness.
Compatibility with other pets varies. My neighbor’s Yorkie lives peacefully with two cats, while my friend’s despises other animals.
Early socialization through dog breed compatibility training helps tremendously.
In shared spaces, Yorkies can be territorial. Their terrier temperament means they won’t back down despite being a miniature dog breed.
Common Behavioral Challenges
Excessive barking tops the list of challenges. These dogs were bred to be vocal. Consistent training from Cesar Millan or other experts can help manage this trait.
Separation anxiety affects many Yorkies. They form intense bonds and struggle when left alone. Creating safe spaces and gradual departure training helps.
Stubbornness during training frustrates many owners. Their intelligence combines with independence to create occasional training standoffs.
Using positive reinforcement techniques and working with their confident personality rather than against it yields better results.
Preventing small dog syndrome requires consistent boundaries. This condition occurs when small dogs are allowed behaviors that wouldn’t be tolerated in larger breeds.
The American Kennel Club recommends treating them like dogs, not babies.
Care Requirements
Grooming Needs
The long silky coat of a Yorkshire Terrier demands attention. Daily brushing prevents mats and tangles in their long-haired dog maintenance routine.
Bathing should occur every 1-2 weeks. Their coat attracts dirt but over-bathing strips natural oils. Between baths, spot cleaning keeps them fresh.
Yorkie haircut styles range from practical to show-stopping:
- The puppy cut (short all over) for easy maintenance
- The show cut (floor-length and parted down the middle)
- The Schnauzer cut (shorter body with longer facial hair)
- Modified styles that blend practicality with beauty
Ears need weekly cleaning to prevent infection. Eyes require daily wiping to remove discharge. Canine dental problems are common, so daily tooth brushing is essential.
Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks maintains ideal coat condition. However, many owners learn brushing techniques for at-home maintenance between appointments at dog grooming salons.
Nutrition and Feeding
Yorkies have specific caloric requirements. As a toy dog variety, they need approximately 150-200 calories daily, depending on activity level and metabolism.
High-quality food from brands like Royal Canin dog food or Hill’s Science Diet provides balanced nutrition. Many owners choose food specifically formulated for small breed dietary needs.
Feeding schedules should include 3-4 small meals daily. Their tiny stomachs can’t handle large portions, and hypoglycemia becomes a risk with extended fasting.
Food sensitivities commonly affect Yorkies. Chicken, grains, and artificial additives frequently cause reactions.
PetMD recommends monitoring for signs like itching, digestive issues, or ear infections.
Hypoglycemia prevention is crucial, especially in puppies. Always have honey or sugar paste available for emergencies. Low blood sugar can develop rapidly in this breed.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Despite their size, exercise needs for Yorkies are moderate. Two 20-minute walks daily plus playtime usually suffices.
Appropriate activities include gentle fetch, tug-of-war with soft toys, and supervised exploration. Their terrier behavior traits mean they enjoy controlled “hunting” games.
For indoor dog activities during bad weather, try:
- Puzzle toys that dispense treats
- Hide and seek games
- Stair climbing (supervised)
- Short training sessions
Adequate exercise shows in bright eyes, good appetite, and appropriate sleep patterns. An exercised Yorkie is less likely to display destructive behaviors.
Avoid overexertion, especially in hot or cold weather. Their small bodies struggle with temperature regulation.
VCA Animal Hospitals advises watching for excessive panting or reluctance to move.
Living Environment
Indoor space requirements are minimal. These apartment-friendly dogs adapt well to small living areas as long as they receive attention and exercise.
Temperature sensitivities affect Yorkies significantly. They shiver in cold and overheat quickly in hot weather. Many owners use doggy clothing from Petco in winter.
Creating a safe home includes:
- Securing small objects they might swallow
- Blocking access to toxic plants
- Installing baby gates near stairs
- Providing raised beds away from drafts
Yard considerations should include secure fencing without gaps. Remember, these toy dog varieties can squeeze through tiny spaces.
For travel, portable dog carriers provide security and comfort. Their status as travel-friendly dogs makes them excellent companions for those with active lifestyles.
Many hotels welcome these small companion dogs due to their minimal impact on accommodations.
Health and Wellness
Common Health Concerns
Yorkshire Terriers face several breed-specific issues. Dental problems top the list—their tiny mouths often lead to overcrowding, tartar buildup, and early tooth loss.
My Yorkie lost three teeth by age five. Regular brushing could have prevented this. Their small jaws make them prone to canine dental problems that larger breeds might avoid.
Luxating patella affects many toy breeds including Yorkies. The kneecap slips out of place, causing skipping or lameness.
Sometimes surgery becomes necessary, though many dogs manage with medication and limited activity.
Tracheal collapse prevention requires using harnesses instead of collars. This condition, where the windpipe flattens, causes honking coughs and breathing difficulty.
The PetMD website lists this as a primary concern for the breed.
Liver shunts occur when blood bypasses the liver, preventing toxin filtering. Signs include:
- Post-meal disorientation
- Stunted growth
- Excessive sleeping
- Neurological symptoms
Eye conditions common in the breed include cataracts, dry eye, and retinal degeneration. Regular checkups at Banfield Pet Hospital or similar facilities help catch these early.
Preventative Care
Vaccination schedules follow standard protocols with some small breed health issues considerations.
The American Kennel Club recommends discussing a tailored schedule with your vet.
Parasite prevention is crucial for these tiny dogs. Their low body weight makes them vulnerable to parasite burden.
Monthly preventatives protect against heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites.
Regular checkups should occur biannually. These low-shedding dog breeds might hide symptoms until illness advances significantly.
VCA Animal Hospitals suggests more frequent monitoring for seniors.
Professional dental cleaning becomes necessary despite home care. Most Yorkies need yearly cleanings under anesthesia to address issues human brushing can’t reach.
Weight management prevents strain on joints and organs. A single extra pound significantly impacts these miniature dog breeds. Keep treats to less than 10% of daily calories.
Lifespan and Aging
Average lifespan expectations for well-cared-for Yorkies range from 13-16 years. Some reach 20 with exceptional care.
This longevity makes them excellent companion dog choices for those seeking long-term pets.
Aging signs typically appear around 10-12 years:
- Graying around the muzzle
- Reduced energy levels
- Increased sleep requirements
- Slight cloudiness in the eyes
- Less tolerance for extended activity
Senior care adjustments include softer food options, more frequent potty breaks, and joint supplements. Heated beds help aging bodies stay comfortable.
The Yorkshire Terrier Rescue organization offers specific advice for senior dog care.
Quality of life considerations become paramount with age. Regular assessments evaluate pain levels, mobility, and enjoyment of daily activities.
Dog DNA tests from Embark Genetics can identify genetic predispositions early, allowing for preventative measures.
Geriatric conditions often include dental disease, heart issues, and cognitive decline. Supplements containing omega fatty acids support brain function in aging dogs.
Training and Socialization
Early Puppy Training
House training presents challenges with this toy dog variety. Their tiny bladders require frequent breaks—sometimes hourly for young puppies. Consistency creates success.
Crate training benefits Yorkies immensely. These apartment-friendly dogs feel secure in den-like spaces. Start with short periods and gradually extend time. Never use the crate for punishment.
Basic commands should begin immediately. Despite their size, these intelligent dogs learn quickly:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Leave it
- Down
Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Harsh methods damage their confidence and trust. Victoria Stilwell recommends clicker training for precise marking of desired behaviors.
Consistency matters enormously. All family members must enforce the same rules. These clever dogs quickly learn who enforces boundaries and who doesn’t.
Socialization Process
Critical puppy socialization periods occur between 3-14 weeks. During this time, expose your Yorkie to various experiences while ensuring positive associations.
Environmental exposure should include different:
- Surfaces (carpet, tile, grass, concrete)
- Sounds (vacuum, doorbell, appliances)
- Weather conditions (supervised)
- Travel methods (car, carrier)
Meeting diverse people prevents territorial tendencies later. Introduce your pup to people of different:
- Ages (especially supervised time with gentle children)
- Appearances (hats, beards, glasses)
- Voices and walking styles
- Ethnicities
Dog breed compatibility develops through carefully controlled interactions with other animals. Start with calm, vaccinated dogs known to be gentle.
The Westminster Dog Show website offers socialization tips for show prospects.
Fear periods occur around 8-10 weeks and again at 6-14 months. During these times, your Yorkie may suddenly fear previously accepted stimuli.
Stay calm and supportive without forcing interactions.
Advanced Training
Obedience training progression should continue throughout life. These terrier group characteristics include intelligence and occasional stubbornness. Mental challenge keeps them engaged.
When correcting behavior, timing matters. Address issues immediately—not minutes later. These small companion dogs won’t connect delayed correction with the original behavior.
Tricks provide excellent mental stimulation for this AKC recognized breed. Mine learned 15 tricks in our first year together. Their eagerness to please makes training sessions fun.
Leash training requires patience. Many Yorkies pull despite their size. Teacup varieties particularly need gentle handling to prevent tracheal damage. Use harnesses rather than collars.
Training resources include:
- Group classes for socialization
- Online videos from reputable trainers
- Books specific to toy breeds
- Apps that track training progress
The United Kennel Club offers training guidance specifically for terriers, addressing their unique temperament needs.
Yorkshire Terriers as Family Pets
Suitability for Different Households
Yorkshire Terriers adapt remarkably well to various living situations. Their versatility makes them popular companion dog temperament breeds nationwide.
For families with children, careful consideration is necessary. While Yorkies can be loving family members, they’re fragile.
Active toddlers might accidentally injure these toy dog varieties. Families with older, gentle children often have better experiences.
Single-person households frequently provide ideal environments. These loyal dogs form intense bonds with their person.
My neighbor’s Yorkie waits by the door from the moment she leaves until her return.
Senior living situations often benefit from Yorkie companionship. Their small companion dog size makes them manageable for those with limited strength.
Many senior care facilities allow these portable pets because of their minimal space requirements.
For apartment and urban living, few breeds compare. These city apartment pets require minimal space while providing maximum companionship.
Their adaptability to indoor dog activities means they don’t need yards to thrive.
Busy lifestyles require consideration. Though adaptable, Yorkies need attention and companionship. These family-friendly pets shouldn’t regularly spend 8+ hours alone.
Daily Life with a Yorkie
Routine provides security for these small dogs. Consistent feeding, walking, and bedtimes help prevent anxiety. Their terrier behavior traits mean they appreciate knowing what comes next.
Travel and portability benefits make Yorkies excellent companions for active people. Their small size means they can join adventures in:
- Portable dog carriers for shopping trips
- Airplane cabins as under-seat companions
- Hotel rooms that might restrict larger breeds
- Restaurants with pet-friendly patios
Social opportunities abound with these popular dogs. Local Yorkshire Terrier Club of America chapters hold meetups.
Instagram pet accounts featuring Yorkies connect owners worldwide. My Yorkie’s social calendar sometimes exceeds mine!
Adaptability to lifestyle changes varies by individual. Most adjust well given time and patience.
Their confident personality helps them navigate new situations, though they appreciate familiar items during transitions.
Time commitment requirements include:
- Daily grooming (15-30 minutes)
- Exercise (30-45 minutes total)
- Training reinforcement (10-15 minutes)
- Play and cuddle time (as much as possible!)
Cost of Ownership
Initial expenses vary widely. Teacup Yorkshire Terrier puppies from show lines can exceed $3,500, while Yorkshire Terrier Rescue adoptions typically range from $250-500.
Registration with the American Kennel Club adds additional costs for purebred documentation.
Routine medical care costs approximately $500-800 annually, covering:
- Vaccinations
- Parasite prevention
- Dental care
- Wellness exams at Banfield Pet Hospital or similar facilities
Grooming expenses add up quickly. Professional sessions every 4-6 weeks cost $40-80 each. Home grooming reduces costs but requires equipment investment.
Dog grooming salons sometimes offer package deals for regular clients.
Food and supply budgets for these small breed dietary needs remain relatively modest. Premium foods like Purina Pro Plan cost $15-30 monthly.
Toys, beds, and replacement grooming supplies add approximately $20-40 monthly.
Emergency fund considerations are crucial. Luxating patella surgery can cost $1,500-3,000 per knee.
Tracheal collapse treatment ranges from $100-3,000 depending on severity. Pet insurance helps manage these unexpected expenses.
Finding and Selecting a Yorkshire Terrier
Responsible Breeders vs. Rescues
Identifying reputable breeders requires research. Quality breeders:
- Participate in dog show competitions
- Perform health testing for breed-specific issues
- Belong to the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America
- Provide lifetime support for their puppies
- Limit breeding frequency of their females
Yorkshire Terrier Rescue organizations offer wonderful adoption options. Many surrendered Yorkies come from loving homes that experienced life changes.
Adopting adults means predictable personalities and often lower medical costs.
Essential questions before purchasing include:
- “What health clearances do the parents have?”
- “How many litters does each female produce yearly?”
- “What genetic testing has been performed?”
- “What socialization experiences have the puppies had?”
- “What happens if I can no longer keep the dog?”
Red flags include:
- Multiple breeds available simultaneously
- No health testing documentation
- Puppies always available without waiting lists
- Reluctance to show living conditions
- Pressure to buy immediately
- No questions about your living situation
Health guarantees should cover genetic conditions for at least one year. Responsible breeders often extend coverage for life-threatening hereditary conditions.
Puppy Selection
Temperament evaluation reveals much about future personality. During your visit, notice:
- How puppies interact with littermates
- Response to handling and gentle restraint
- Recovery from startle responses
- Willingness to approach strangers
- General energy and curiosity levels
Basic health assessment includes checking:
- Clear eyes without discharge
- Clean ears without odor
- Straight legs without obvious joint issues
- Moist nose and pink gums
- Appropriate weight for age
Gender differences remain subtle in Yorkies. Males sometimes show greater independence, while females may bond more closely with one person.
Either gender makes excellent pets when spayed/neutered.
Meeting parents provides insight into adult temperament and size. The mother particularly influences early puppy development.
Pedigree certification from organizations like the United Kennel Club or Canadian Kennel Club verifies bloodlines.
Most puppies should remain with mothers until 12 weeks for proper socialization and bite inhibition learning.
Earlier separation often leads to behavioral issues. When selecting your lap dog behaviors companion, two visits often help make better matches.
Preparing for Arrival
Essential supplies include:
- Appropriately-sized crate
- Quality food recommended by the breeder
- Shallow food and water dishes
- Appropriate toys for dental health
- Grooming supplies for long silky coat maintenance
- Baby gates for safety
- Potty pads for initial training
Home preparation involves:
- Securing loose electrical cords
- Removing poisonous houseplants
- Setting up a quiet sleeping area
- Creating a consistent potty location
- Removing valuable items from puppy reach
- Installing cabinet locks for under-sink chemicals
Finding a veterinarian experienced with toy dog varieties is essential. Schedule a new puppy appointment within 72 hours of arrival.
This establishes care and verifies the health assessment from the breeder or rescue.
First-day adjustments should proceed slowly. Allow exploration of limited areas initially.
Too much freedom overwhelms puppies and increases accident likelihood. Puppy socialization should progress gradually after settling in.
When introducing existing pets, control all interactions initially. Supervise continuously for several weeks. Allow your current pets to maintain their routines to prevent jealousy.
With patience, most Yorkies integrate beautifully into multi-pet households, becoming cherished family-friendly pets for years to come.
FAQ on Yorkshire Terrier
Are Yorkshire Terriers good family dogs?
Yorkshire Terriers can be great family dogs, especially in homes with older children. Their loyal temperament, small size, and affectionate nature make them ideal companion pets.
Early socialization and proper puppy training are key to helping your Yorkie thrive in a family setting.
Do Yorkshire Terriers shed a lot?
Yorkies are considered hypoallergenic dogs with minimal shedding. Their silky coat is more like human hair and requires regular grooming.
Use dog grooming salons or learn how to trim their dog hair at home to maintain their coat and prevent tangles.
How often should I groom a Yorkshire Terrier?
Grooming is essential—brush your Yorkie daily and schedule professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.
Their coat care includes detangling, trimming, and occasional baths. Using the right pet-safe tools ensures their coat remains smooth and their skin healthy.
Are Teacup Yorkies a real breed?
Teacup Yorkies are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They’re smaller versions of the Yorkshire Terrier, often bred irresponsibly by puppy mills.
These dogs may face serious health issues due to unethical breeding practices. Always research reputable Yorkie breeders.
What is the average lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier?
A healthy Yorkshire Terrier typically lives 12–15 years. With proper veterinary care, good canine nutrition, and regular exercise, they can live even longer.
Watch for breed-specific concerns like dental care and tracheal collapse, which are common in small dog breeds.
Are Yorkshire Terriers easy to train?
Yorkies are intelligent but can be a little stubborn. Use positive reinforcement during puppy training.
Early crate training, socialization, and consistent commands help shape good behavior. Many owners also consult dog trainers or attend dog training classes.
What do Yorkshire Terriers eat?
High-quality dog food formulated for toy breeds works best. Look for trusted dog food brands like Royal Canin or Blue Buffalo.
Ensure a balanced diet that includes proteins, fats, and vitamins. Avoid human food and consult a veterinarian for specific dietary needs.
Do Yorkshire Terriers bark a lot?
Yorkies are known for being vocal. Their barking issues usually stem from anxiety or territorial behavior.
Regular exercise, training, and mental stimulation help manage excessive barking. Consider help from a dog behaviorist if barking becomes disruptive.
Can Yorkshire Terriers live in apartments?
Their small size and low exercise requirements make them perfect apartment dogs. Just make sure to provide daily walks and playtime.
A comfortable dog crate, dog-friendly environment, and regular interaction are important for their well-being.
Where can I adopt a Yorkshire Terrier?
Start with reputable animal shelters, Yorkie rescue organizations, or platforms like Petfinder.
Avoid puppy mills and verify the background of any Yorkie breeders. Adoption is a great way to give a dog a second chance while avoiding unethical breeding.
Conclusion
The Yorkshire Terrier is more than just a cute face—it’s a bold, smart, and fiercely loyal toy dog breed with a personality much bigger than its size.
From their origins in England’s working class to their current status as pampered lapdogs, Yorkies continue to steal hearts around the world.
Whether you’re drawn to their compact size, intrigued by their high energy levels, or impressed by their dog show lineage, a Yorkshire Terrier makes an excellent choice for both new and experienced pet owners.
With proper care, including regular vaccine schedules, balanced pet nutrition, and attention to behavioral training, these dogs can live long, healthy lives.
Before bringing one home, explore breed-specific rescues, verify microchipping protocols, and consider pet insurance options.
In return, you’ll gain a loyal, affectionate companion that fits perfectly into modern life—whether in a high-rise apartment or a cozy suburban home.
