Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the "Yorkie," is a small but feisty toy breed originating from the United Kingdom. Known for their beautiful, silky coats and confident personality, they are brave, energetic, and form strong attachments to their owners. Their long coat requires daily brushing or regular professional grooming. While adaptable to various living situations, they require consistent training to manage their vocal nature. Prospective owners should also consider key breed-specific health and costs before bringing one home.

Breed Group

Toy Dogs

Country of Origin

United Kingdom

Breed Size

Toy

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1885

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Family dog

Good

7 / 10

Good with kids

Good

5 / 10

First-time owner

Good

7 / 10

Apartment dog

Exceptional

10 / 10

Yard need

Not Required

10 / 10

Can be left alone

Not Recommended

1 / 10

What Do Owners Want to Know?

Are Yorkshire Terrier good family dogs?

Yorkshire Terriers are devoted companions that form strong attachments to their owners and crave constant attention. While they are highly adaptable to various living situations, their feisty personality and vocal nature require consistent training to ensure they integrate well into a family environment.

Family dog: 7 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier good with kids?

Yorkies are better suited for families with older, respectful children. Due to their tiny size and fragile bone structure, they can be easily injured by rough handling or accidental falls caused by young, boisterous children. Supervision is always necessary.

Good with kids: 5 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier good for first-time owners?

They are a good choice for first-time owners. Yorkies are intelligent and generally eager to please, though they can have a stubborn terrier streak. They respond well to positive reinforcement training and are relatively easy to manage due to their small size.

First-time owner: 7 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier good apartment dogs?

Yorkshire Terriers are excellent apartment dogs. Their tiny size means they require very little indoor space, and their exercise needs can often be met with indoor play and short daily walks. However, their tendency to bark must be managed through training.

Apartment dog: 10 / 10

Do Yorkshire Terrier need a yard?

A yard is not required for a Yorkie. They can get plenty of exercise indoors and through short walks on a leash. If they do have access to a yard, it must be securely fenced, as their small size makes them vulnerable to predators and escape.

Yard need: 10 / 10

Can Yorkshire Terrier be left alone?

Yorkies are very social and bond intensely with their owners. They do not do well when left alone for long periods and are prone to separation anxiety, which can manifest as excessive barking or destructive behavior. They prefer homes where someone is usually present.

Can be left alone: 1 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier good with cats?

Yorkshire Terriers generally get along well with cats, especially if raised with them. Their small size makes them less intimidating to felines. However, they are still terriers and may occasionally chase a running cat, so proper introductions are important.

Good with cats: 7 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier aggressive?

Yorkies are not aggressive, but they are bold and highly alert, making them excellent little watchdogs. They will bark at any strange sound or visitor. Early socialization is important to prevent them from becoming overly yappy or fearful of strangers.

Aggression tendency: 4 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier high-energy dogs?

They have moderate energy levels. While they are spunky and enjoy playtime, their short legs mean they don't require the intense exercise of larger breeds. Short bursts of activity and daily walks are usually sufficient to keep them happy.

Energy level: 5 / 10

How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?

A Yorkshire Terrier needs about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be achieved through short, brisk walks and interactive indoor play sessions. Mental stimulation through learning tricks or playing with puzzle toys is also beneficial.

Exercise need: 5 / 10

Can Yorkshire Terrier live in hot weather?

Yorkies do not tolerate extreme heat well. Their small size makes them susceptible to overheating. During hot weather, they should be kept in air-conditioned environments, and outdoor activities should be limited to the cooler parts of the day.

Hot weather tolerance: 3 / 10

Can Yorkshire Terrier live in cold weather?

Yorkshire Terriers are very sensitive to the cold. They have a single coat of hair rather than a warm undercoat. In cold weather, they must wear a warm dog sweater or coat when going outside, and their time in freezing temperatures should be strictly limited.

Cold weather tolerance: 1 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier banned in apartments or rentals?

Yorkies are rarely banned and are generally highly welcome in apartments and rental properties due to their tiny size. However, their tendency to bark frequently can sometimes lead to noise complaints if not properly managed.

Rental restriction risk: 10 / 10

Vet Insights

Yorkshire Terriers are a relatively healthy toy breed, living 11-15 years. As a vet, I frequently see them for dental disease, which is very common in small breeds; daily teeth brushing is highly recommended. They are also prone to patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps), tracheal collapse, and portosystemic shunts (a liver condition). Regular grooming is essential to keep their fine hair from matting and causing skin issues.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified