The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is more than just a purse dog with a pretty face. This toy breed boasts a personality that’s larger than life and a heart full of courage. A former ratter turned beloved lapdog, the Yorkie remains one of the most popular breeds, charming people with its vivacity and elegance.
General Info About the Breed
The Yorkshire Terrier, a member of the toy group, is a diminutive breed that carries itself with a confident, almost regal, demeanor. Despite its small size, the Yorkie has a big personality, marked by its bravery, loyalty, and affectionate nature. These dogs are known for their long, silky coats and their suitability to apartment living.
Size Characteristics of the Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are classified as a toy breed due to their small size, but they pack a lot of personality into their petite frames. Here are the key size characteristics of the Yorkshire Terrier:
Height
A typical Yorkshire Terrier stands about 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Their small stature contributes to their popularity as a companion animal, especially suited for urban living where space may be at a premium.
Weight
Yorkies are lightweight dogs, typically weighing in at around 4 to 7 pounds when fully grown. Breed standards generally prefer that the dogs should not exceed 7 pounds, as maintaining a smaller size is ideal for this breed’s standard and overall health.
Body Structure
Despite their small size, Yorkshire Terriers should not appear fragile. They have a well-proportioned and compact body structure that exhibits a good balance between bone structure and muscle tone, which gives them their characteristic sprightly and buoyant gait.
Proportion
Yorkies are slightly longer than tall, giving them a well-balanced appearance. They should have a level back and a well-held head, which adds to their confident and self-assured demeanor.
Bone Density
While they are light, Yorkies possess a solid bone density for their size, which supports their surprisingly robust physical capabilities. They are agile and quick, able to participate in activities like agility training that require jumping and running.
Appearance
The Yorkshire Terrier’s crowning glory is its fine, straight, and silky coat, which comes in a steel blue and tan color. The breed’s coat is famously hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Yorkies have a small head with a short muzzle, bright, intelligent eyes, and a pair of V-shaped ears that stand erect.
Overall, the Yorkshire Terrier should present a neat, compact, and well-proportioned body with a confident carriage. Their size is a defining characteristic of the breed, but it belies the boldness and tenacity that are hallmark traits of the Yorkie temperament.
Temperament of the Yorkshire Terrier
Despite their diminutive size, Yorkshire Terriers boast a temperament full of personality, courage, and vivacity. They are affectionate and spirited companions known for their confidence and intelligence.
Confidence and Courage
Yorkies carry themselves with an air of importance and self-assuredness that is quite remarkable for their size. They are brave and often unaware of their small stature, which can sometimes lead them to take on challenges bigger than themselves.
Affectionate and Loyal
Yorkshire Terriers form strong, devoted bonds with their owners. They are known for their affectionate nature and are happiest when with their family. This loyalty can sometimes translate into a protective streak, and they may be wary of strangers, making them good little watchdogs.
Intelligence and Alertness
Yorkies are intelligent and quick to learn. They are very perceptive and alert, which makes them excellent at understanding and responding to their owners’ moods and commands. However, their smartness also means they can be a bit wilful, especially when they think they can get away with it.
Energy and Playfulness
Despite their size, Yorkshire Terriers have a moderate to high energy level. They enjoy playtime and are always up for a game or adventure. Their playful antics can be quite entertaining for their families.
Good with Other Dogs and Children
If socialized properly, Yorkies usually get along well with other dogs. However, due to their small size and sometimes feisty nature, interactions should be monitored, particularly with larger breeds. They can be good with children who understand how to interact gently with small pets, but rough play should be avoided to prevent injury to the dog.
Independence
Yorkshire Terriers have a degree of independence and can be content to play with their toys or explore on their own. However, they do not like being left alone for long periods and can suffer from separation anxiety.
Trainability
Yorkies are capable of learning a wide array of tricks and commands. They respond well to consistent, positive training methods. Early obedience training and socialization are recommended to harness their intelligence in a positive manner and to prevent the development of “small dog syndrome,” where the dog becomes bossy and spoiled.
Adaptability
Yorkshire Terriers adapt well to different living environments, from apartments to houses with yards. They are quite versatile and can thrive in various settings as long as they receive adequate attention and stimulation.
In summary, the Yorkshire Terrier’s temperament is one of charm, spirit, and affection. They are adaptable and fit well into many different types of households, provided their social, mental, and physical needs are met. While they may be small in size, they have the heart and courage of a dog many times their size, making them a beloved companion the world over.
Exercise Requirements and Energy Level
Despite their tiny legs, Yorkies have a fair amount of energy. They don’t require extensive exercise but do need regular playtime and walks to keep them healthy and prevent boredom. Their energy level is suitable for their size, and they can usually get a good amount of exercise even in a small space.
Grooming Requirements of the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier’s beautiful, silky coat is one of the breed’s defining features, but it also requires regular and thorough grooming. Here’s what you need to know to keep a Yorkie looking its best.
Coat Care
Yorkies have a fine, silky coat that grows continuously and can become quite long. They do not have an undercoat, which means they shed very little, but their hair can easily become tangled or matted without proper care.
- Daily Brushing: To keep their coat smooth and free of mats, Yorkies require daily brushing. A pin brush or a soft bristle brush is typically recommended, and you should be gentle to avoid breaking their fine hair.
- Detangling Spray: Before brushing, using a detangling spray can help prevent breakage and make the process more comfortable for your dog.
Bathing
Yorkies should be bathed every two to four weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner to maintain the natural oils in their skin and coat.
- Bath Time: Be sure to rinse out all the soap thoroughly, as any residue can cause skin irritation. It’s also important to avoid getting water into their ears, which can lead to infections.
- Drying: After bathing, gently pat your Yorkie dry with a towel and use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to dry their coat completely, brushing as you go to prevent tangles.
Haircuts
Many Yorkie owners keep their pets in a “puppy cut” or “teddy bear cut,” which is a short, manageable style that reduces the need for daily maintenance.
- Professional Grooming: For those who prefer a longer coat, regular visits to a professional groomer every 4-6 weeks are essential to keep the coat trimmed and tidy.
Ear, Nail, and Dental Care
In addition to coat care, regular grooming should include ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care:
- Ears: Check your Yorkie’s ears regularly for dirt, wax, or signs of infection. Gently wipe the ears clean with a cotton ball dampened with a dog-approved ear cleaner.
- Nails: Yorkies’ nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent discomfort and problems walking. If you can hear the nails clicking on the floor, they’re too long.
- Teeth: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth several times a week to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Dental chews and regular cleanings by a veterinarian can also help maintain dental health.
Eye Care
Because of their long facial hair, Yorkies often get hair in their eyes, which can cause irritation or infection:
- Face Trimming: Keeping the hair trimmed around the eyes will help prevent problems. Many owners use a topknot or bow to keep the hair out of their Yorkie’s eyes.
- Daily Cleaning: Wiping the corners of the eyes with a soft, damp cloth can help prevent staining and keep the eyes clear.
Grooming is an essential aspect of caring for a Yorkshire Terrier. Not only does it keep them looking their best, but it also offers an opportunity for owners to check for any signs of skin issues or parasites and strengthens the bond between pet and owner.
Health Issues of the Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, like all breeds, are predisposed to certain health conditions. While many Yorkies live long and healthy lives, it’s important for owners and potential buyers to be aware of the common health issues that can affect this breed.
Genetic Health Concerns
- Patellar Luxation: This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. It’s common in small breeds and can cause discomfort and mobility issues.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to progressive vision loss and eventual blindness.
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): PSS is a malformation of blood vessels that affects the liver’s ability to detoxify the body effectively.
- Tracheal Collapse: Characterized by a weakening of the tracheal rings, which leads to a collapsed trachea and causes coughing and difficulty breathing.
Dental Health
Yorkies are particularly prone to dental issues due to their small mouths, which can lead to overcrowding of teeth and an increased risk of periodontal disease. Regular dental care and cleanings are essential.
Hypoglycemia
Especially in puppies or very small Yorkies, hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can be a concern. It’s important to monitor their food intake to ensure they’re getting enough nutrients.
Skin Allergies
Yorkies can suffer from skin allergies, which may manifest as itchiness, redness, or hair loss. It’s important to identify and manage the causes of allergies, which can range from food sensitivities to environmental triggers.
Other Concerns
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This condition involves the degeneration of the head of the femur bone, leading to hip joint collapse and arthritis.
- Eye Infections: Due to their prominent eyes, Yorkies are susceptible to eye infections and irritations.
Health Screening and Care
Prospective Yorkie owners should seek breeders who conduct genetic screening on their breeding animals to ensure they’re not passing on common congenital conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch and manage many health issues early on.
Lifespan
The Yorkshire Terrier has a relatively long lifespan compared to other breeds, often living into their mid to late teens. However, their overall health can greatly influence their quality of life and longevity.
In summary, while the Yorkshire Terrier is a generally healthy breed, awareness of these potential health issues can help owners provide the best care for their pets. A combination of good genetics, regular veterinary care, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to a happy, healthy life for a Yorkie.
Notable Dogs From the Breed
One of the most famous Yorkshire Terriers was Smoky, a World War II hero that served with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific. Another notable Yorkie is Huddersfield Ben, born in 1865, known as the father of the breed and a champion show dog.
Comparable Breeds
Comparable breeds to the Yorkshire Terrier include other small terriers like the Silky Terrier, which shares the Yorkie’s fine coat and dynamic personality, and the Toy Poodle, which matches the Yorkie’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat.
General Summary of the Breed
In essence, the Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog with a tenacious spirit, a loving heart, and a beautiful, hypoallergenic coat. They are adaptable, making them suitable for various lifestyles, from city apartments to country homes, as long as they have company and stimulation. With their rich history and undeniably charming nature, Yorkies continue to capture the hearts of dog lovers.
