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Yorkshire Terrier - MAIN HUB

Spunky, silky, and brave, the Yorkie is a tiny treasure with a huge heart. This loyal companion is a feisty watchdog and a devoted best friend!

BREED GROUP

Toy Dogs

Country of origin

United Kingdom

BREED SIZE

Toy

BREED HEIGHT

8 -

9 IN

20 -

23 cm

BREED WEIGHT

4 -

7 LB

2 -

3 KG

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the "Yorkie," is a small but feisty toy breed originating from the United Kingdom. With a lifespan of 11-15 years, they are known for their beautiful, silky coats and confident, terrier personalities. Despite their diminutive size, they are brave, energetic, and make excellent watchdogs. They form strong attachments to their owners and crave attention. Their long coat requires daily brushing or regular professional grooming. Yorkies are adaptable to various living situations but require consistent training to manage their vocal nature.
american kennel club (AKC) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1885.

International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1954.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?

Are Yorkshire Terriers good family dogs?

Good

7 out of 10

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.

Good

5 out of 10

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

7 out of 10

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.

Exceptional

10 out of 10

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.

Not Required

10 out of 10

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.

Not Recommended

1 out of 10

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.

Good

7 out of 10

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.

Alert

4 out of 10

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.

Average

5 out of 10

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.

< 20 min a day

5 out of 10

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.

Poor

3 out of 10

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.

Poor

3 out of 10

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.

Never Banned

10 out of 10

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.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?


Photo
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian Researcher Dog breed specialist
Verified
"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."

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