Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier Training Profile

Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent yet independent, requiring patient training with positive reinforcement. These energetic companions need 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, such as brisk walks and indoor play. Housebreaking is challenging due to their small bladders and stubbornness. Their care routine emphasizes coat brushing, eye cleaning, and using harnesses to protect their delicate frames.

Breed Group

Toy Dogs

Country of Origin

United Kingdom

Breed Size

Toy

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1885

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Mental stimulation needs

High Needs

8 / 10

Trainability

4 / 10

Picky eater

Picky Eater

3 / 10

Easy to train

Moderate

6 / 10

Training stubbornness

Stubborn

3 / 10

Puppy training

Difficult

2 / 10

Training FAQ

Are Yorkshire Terrier easy to train?

Yorkshire Terriers are highly intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, making them moderately challenging to train. They respond best to short, fun sessions using positive reinforcement and high-value treats. Consistency and patience are essential to manage their big egos and overcome their natural terrier tenacity.

Easy to train: 6 / 10

Are Yorkshire Terrier stubborn to train?

Yes, Yorkshire Terriers can be stubborn due to their independent terrier heritage. They often prefer making their own decisions over following commands. To succeed, training must be consistent and reward-based. Using high-value treats and keeping sessions short and fun will help overcome their occasional strong-willed nature.

Training stubbornness: 3 / 10

How do you train a Yorkshire Terrier puppy?

Train Yorkshire Terrier puppies using positive reinforcement and consistent routines. Start early with socialization and house training, using high-value treats to motivate these independent thinkers. Keep sessions short and fun to manage their energy, and use a harness for leash training to protect their delicate necks.

Puppy training: 2 / 10

How difficult is potty training in Yorkshire Terrier?

Potty training a Yorkshire Terrier typically takes several weeks to several months, often longer than larger breeds due to their small bladders and stubborn nature. Success requires a consistent schedule, frequent outdoor breaks every 2 to 3 hours, and lavish praise or treats to reinforce good bathroom habits.

Potty training difficulty: 3 / 10

How many walks does a Yorkshire Terrier need?

Yorkshire Terriers are energetic companions that require around 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. This is best achieved through two or three brisk 20-minute walks combined with interactive indoor play or cardio sessions like fetch to satisfy their spirited nature and maintain their physical health.

Walking need: 2 / 10

What is the best daily routine for a Yorkshire Terrier?

A Yorkshire Terrier's daily routine should balance their high energy with their small physical stature. Provide 30 to 60 minutes of exercise, ideally split into two or three brisk 20-minute walks supplemented by indoor cardio like fetch or tug-of-war. Feed adults two to three times daily and puppies three to four times with small-breed kibble to maintain blood sugar and weight. Daily care must include brushing their long, silky coat to prevent matting, wiping the corners of their eyes to remove tear stains, and performing short, positive reinforcement training sessions. Because of their delicate builds, always use a harness for walks and monitor them in extreme weather to prevent overheating or chilling.

Routine need: 6 / 10

Vet Insights

Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent yet independent, requiring patient training with positive reinforcement. These energetic companions need 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, such as brisk walks and indoor play. Housebreaking is challenging due to their small bladders and stubbornness. Their care routine emphasizes coat brushing, eye cleaning, and using harnesses to protect their delicate frames.

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