The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the “Yorkie,” is the most popular toy dog breed in the United States. With his long, silky blue-and-tan coat, topknot tied with a ribbon, and dainty size, he looks like a pampered diva. He is the ultimate “purse dog,” often seen peeking out of designer bags on the arms of celebrities.

But underneath that glamour is a gritty, rat-hunting terrier who thinks he is the size of a Rottweiler. He is feisty, brave, and bossy. He is a tomboy in a ballgown. Yorkies offer the best of both worlds: they are small enough to travel in a carry-on bag, but tough enough to keep the backyard squirrel-free. They are full of personality, often serving as the self-appointed “boss” of the household, regardless of who else lives there.

History and Origin: From Rags to Riches

The Yorkie has a surprisingly humble origin story. He was born during the Industrial Revolution in the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire in northern England.

• The Working Roots: In the mid-19th century, Scottish workers came south to work in the coal mines and textile mills, bringing with them a variety of small terriers (like the Clydesdale and Paisley Terriers). These dogs were bred to squeeze into the small, dark spaces in the mills and mines to hunt rats. They were tough, fearless working dogs who earned their keep by killing vermin.
• The Transformation: Over time, breeders began to select for smaller size and finer coats. The rough-and-tumble ratter caught the eye of Victorian ladies, who began carrying them as lapdogs. By the late Victorian era, the Yorkshire Terrier had moved from the coal mines to the drawing rooms of the rich. But the hunter’s instinct remains alive and well today.

Physical Characteristics: A Silky Toy

The Yorkie is a Toy breed, delicate but compact. He carries his head high with an air of self-importance.

• Height: 7–8 inches (17-20 cm).
• Weight: The breed standard caps the weight at 7 pounds (3.2 kg). Many pet Yorkies are larger (10-12 lbs), which actually makes them sturdier pets.

The Crowning Glory: The Coat

The single most distinctive feature of the Yorkie is his coat.

• Texture: It is hair, not fur. It is silky, fine, and glossy, similar to human hair. It does not have an undercoat and does not shed much, making the Yorkie essentially hypoallergenic.
• Color: Puppies are born black and tan. As they mature, the color changes to a distinctive steel blue (on the body) and rich golden tan (on the head and legs). The transition can take up to three years.
• Maintenance: A show coat reaches the floor and requires hours of daily grooming. Most pet owners opt for a “puppy cut” (short all over), which gives the dog a cute, eternal puppy look.

”Teacup” Yorkies

Buyer Beware: Unethical breeders often market “Teacup” Yorkies (under 4 lbs). These dogs are often runts bred with runts and are plagued with serious health issues (fragile bones, organ failure) and tragically short lifespans. A healthy, standard-sized Yorkie is a much better choice.

Temperament and Personality

The Yorkie is a big personality in a tiny body.

The Napoleon Complex

Yorkies have no concept of their size. They will fearlessly bark at (or chase) a Great Dane. They will stand their ground against a delivery truck. You must protect them from themselves, as they can easily get hurt picking fights they can’t win. They are brave to the point of recklessness.

The Affectionate Lap Warmer

They adore their owners. They are “Velcro dogs” who want to be with you every second. They are excellent companions for the elderly or those who live in apartments. They want to be held, carried, and cuddled. However, they can be suspicious of strangers and will often bark to announce visitors.

The Watchdog

They are alert watchdogs. If a leaf blows across the driveway, you will know about it. Without early training, this barking can become excessive (“yappy”). They take their duty to protect the castle very seriously.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Surprisingly Active

Yorkies are active little dogs. They don’t need a 5-mile run, but they are not lazy.

• Daily Needs: Two 15-minute walks a day and some indoor play (fetch in the hallway) are sufficient.
• Mental Stimulation: They are smart and need brain games to prevent boredom.
• Cold Weather: They have no undercoat and get cold easily. They need a sweater in winter.

Training: The Iron Will

They are smart but independent (stubborn).

• Potty Training: This is the hardest part of owning a Yorkie. They are notorious for being difficult to housebreak. Because they are small and low to the ground, they dislike cold or wet grass. Many owners use indoor pee pads or litter boxes as a permanent solution. Consistency and patience are mandatory.
• Socialization: Essential to prevent them from becoming snappy with strangers or other dogs. Carry them everywhere as puppies.

Health and Lifespan

Yorkies are generally long-lived, often reaching 13 to 15 years or more.

• Luxating Patella: Slipping kneecaps. This can cause the dog to hop or limp.
• Tracheal Collapse: A genetic weakening of the windpipe. You should always use a harness, never a collar, to walk a Yorkie. Pulling on a collar can crush their delicate throat and cause a honking cough.
• Dental Issues: Their small mouths crowd their teeth, leading to rapid decay and gum disease. Daily brushing and professional cleanings are mandatory to save their teeth.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially in puppies. They need to eat small meals frequently to prevent seizures.
• Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt): A congenital defect where blood bypasses the liver.

Grooming and Care

• The Eyes: The hair on the head grows long and can irritate the eyes. It must be tied up in a topknot or trimmed short.
• The Rear End: The hair around the anus needs to be kept short for hygiene.
• Nails: They grow fast and need frequent trimming.

Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?

The Yorkie is a delightful, spirited companion.

Yes, if:

• You live in a small apartment. He is the perfect condo dog.
• You want a dog that travels easily. He flies in the cabin.
• You want a devoted companion who is hypoallergenic. No shedding.
• You don’t have small children. Toddlers can accidentally injure fragile Yorkies.

No, if:

• You have no patience for housebreaking. Accidents will happen.
• You want a quiet house. He barks.
• You don’t want to deal with grooming. He needs haircuts.
• You want a “rough and tumble” dog. He is physically delicate.

The Yorkshire Terrier is a sprightly, tomboyish spirit wrapped in a silky package. He demands a lot of attention, but he gives back ten times as much in love, loyalty, and sheer attitude. He is a big dog in a small dog suit.