- The tiny Yorkshire Terrier packs big-dog confidence into a small frame.
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their intelligence, energy, and bold confidence. Developed in 19th-century North England, they were originally bred as ratters to control rodents in textile mills and coal mines. The Yorkie’s ancestors include the now-extinct Clydesdale Terrier and the Black-and-Tan Terrier.
At one point, this breed was referred to by a variety of names, including the Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier, Broken-Haired Toy Terrier, or simply the Toy Terrier. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the name “Yorkshire Terrier” was officially adopted, honoring the region where the breed was first developed.
2. Yorkies: Great Agility Competitors in a Small Package
Don’t let their small size fool you—Yorkies love speed, action, and plenty of attention. Canine sports like agility are perfect for keeping them challenged and mentally stimulated.
But don’t assume they’re just purse-dogs who never touch the ground! Yorkies enjoy long walks and love showing off their protective instincts, often acting as tiny but fierce guard dogs.
Known for their bravery, adventurous spirit, and loyalty, Yorkies are also curious and quick learners. However, their strong hunting instinct means it’s best to keep them away from smaller pets, like hamsters or birds, to ensure everyone stays safe.
3. Yorkies: Independent and Confident Little Companions
Yorkshire Terriers can certainly be lapdogs, but they tend to enjoy it in short bursts. While they love pleasing their humans, they’re easily distracted by other things that catch their interest.
Some Yorkies are sweet and cuddly, perfect for snuggling, while others are more playful and mischievous, keeping you entertained with their antics. If you’re looking for a true lapdog, the sweet, cuddly Yorkie might be the better fit for you.
Because Yorkies can be notoriously stubborn, it’s essential to start obedience training and socializing early. This will help ensure your Yorkie develops good habits and avoids any undesirable behaviors that can be harder to break as she matures.
4. Healthy Yorkies Enjoy Long, Happy Lives
Yorkshire Terriers typically live between 14 and 16 years, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Common issues include liver shunts, collapsing tracheas, luxating patellas, dental problems, hypothyroidism, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Yorkies can also suffer from low blood sugar, certain types of bladder stones, hair loss, cataracts, and ingrown eyelashes.
Very tiny Yorkies (those weighing under 4 pounds) are especially prone to health problems. In my opinion, breeders who focus on producing “teacup” Yorkies often sacrifice the dogs’ long-term health for the sake of an abnormally small size.
5. Yorkshire Terrier Coats: Beautiful but High-Maintenance
The good news is that Yorkies shed very little, making them a great choice for those concerned about hair around the house. However, their long, silky coat requires extensive grooming. To prevent tangles and matting, your Yorkie’s coat should be brushed 4 to 5 times a week with a firm bristle brush and professionally trimmed on a regular basis. Additionally, routine cleaning of their eyes and ears is essential to prevent infections, and daily tooth brushing is necessary to maintain good dental health.
6. A Yorkshire Terrier Was One of the First Therapy Dogs
During World War II, a U.S. soldier in the Pacific theater discovered a Yorkie puppy hiding in a foxhole. Named Smoky, this courageous little dog went on to visit wounded American soldiers, offering comfort and companionship. She also played a crucial role in stringing communication lines between military outposts in the Philippines, becoming a beloved member of the team.
7. Yorkies with undocked tails look especially adorable
Although the American Kennel Club (AKC) still includes docked tails as part of the Yorkshire Terrier breed standard, many knowledgeable and humane Yorkie breeders and owners are choosing to forgo this practice. The decision to leave a Yorkie’s tail natural is becoming more common among those who prioritize the well-being and ethical treatment of their pets.
8. Yorkies need regular exercise
It’s a common misconception that toy breeds don’t need vigorous exercise, but Yorkshire Terriers, in particular, require regular physical activity. Daily walks and frequent playtime in an open area are essential to keeping your Yorkie both physically fit and mentally stimulated. Without enough exercise, behavior problems may arise.
Additionally, Yorkies can easily gain weight, so it’s important to avoid overindulging them with treats or food to maintain a healthy weight.
9. Yorkies are talkers
Actually, Yorkies are known for being barkers—it’s in their nature as watchdogs. It’s a good idea to train your Yorkie to stop barking on command (or to control barking when the urge strikes), unless, of course, you don’t mind a small dog with a big voice.
10.Yorkies can be difficult to housetrain
The myth that Yorkies are impossible to housetrain is just that—a myth. While your little one may not learn in a week, with consistency, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement, you can successfully potty train your Yorkie.
