The Yorkshire Terrier—most folks just call them Yorkies—is one of the most beloved small dog breeds in the UK and, honestly, all over the world. This tiny terrier rarely weighs more than 3.2 kg and originated in Yorkshire, England during the 19th century.
Mill workers bred them back then to catch rats in textile factories. Despite their size, Yorkies have big personalities and make loyal companions for people who get them.
Thinking about adding a Yorkie to your family? These dogs have beautiful, silky blue and tan coats, confident attitudes, and a devoted nature.
They’re playful and energetic. But you should know they come with some specific care needs before you jump in.
Whether you love their elegant looks or their spunky character, Yorkshire Terriers can fit into many different households. Learning about their background, temperament, health, and grooming will help you decide if a Yorkie suits your life.
Key Takeaways
- Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs—up to 3.2 kg—with blue and tan silky coats that need regular grooming.
- They’re playful, confident, and can be vocal, so they need consistent training even though they’re tiny.
- Yorkies usually live 12-14 years and need regular veterinary care for common health issues like dental problems and joint conditions.
Yorkshire Terrier Origins and History
The Yorkshire Terrier started out in the mills of northern England in the 1800s. Workers bred small terriers to hunt rats in textile factories.
These little dogs came from several Scottish terrier breeds brought over by migrant workers. Over time, they became the refined companion breed we know now.
Development of the Breed
Yorkshire Terriers trace their roots to Yorkshire’s cotton and woollen mills in the mid-nineteenth century. Scottish workers moved to Yorkshire for jobs and brought their terriers with them.
Mill operatives bred their dogs to create the ultimate ratter for mines and factories. The breed developed from a male named Old Crab, a female named Kitty, and another unnamed female.
Miners crossed Black-and-Tan Terriers with Paisley and Clydesdale Terriers. Their goal was a small, fearless dog that could squeeze into tight spots and catch rats.
Early records about Yorkie breeding are pretty scarce. One breeder in 1886 said most mill workers were “nearly all ignorant men, unaccustomed to imparting information for public use.”
This lack of documentation makes it tough for historians to piece together the breed’s exact history.
Key Breed Influences
Several breeds shaped the Yorkshire Terrier. The Paisley Terrier, a smaller version of the Skye Terrier, was bred for its gorgeous, long silky coat.
Some people think the Maltese also helped create the Yorkie’s unique look. The most influential dog in Yorkie history was Huddersfield Ben.
Mary Ann Foster from Yorkshire owned Huddersfield Ben, a Paisley-type show dog who appeared at exhibitions throughout Great Britain in the late 1860s. He basically set the standard for what a Yorkie should look like.
Huddersfield Ben was the top stud dog of his era. An 1891 breed authority even called him “one of the most remarkable dogs of any pet breed that ever lived.”
Most show Yorkies today have Ben in their family tree. People still call him the “father of the breed.”
Recognition by The Kennel Club
Early dog shows lumped Yorkshire Terriers under “Rough and Broken-coated, Broken-haired Scotch and Yorkshire Terriers.” In 1878, an expert called this system “confusing and absurd.”
The Kennel Club eventually set proper breed standards for Yorkies. The standard called for a glossy, fine, straight, and silky coat.
The required colour was tan on the head and dark steel-grey on the body—no other colours allowed. The breed got official recognition in North America in 1872.
The American Kennel Club registered its first Yorkie in 1885. During the Victorian era, these dogs became popular pets and show dogs in England, and Americans quickly fell for them too.
Breed Characteristics and Appearance
Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with a look that really sets them apart from other toy breeds. These little companions weigh up to 3.2 kg and have a long, silky coat in signature colours.
Size and Physical Traits
Yorkies are tiny, with a maximum weight of 3.2 kg (7 lbs). Even though they’re small, their bodies are compact and well-proportioned, with a proud, upright posture.
Their heads are small and flat—not too round. The muzzle isn’t long, and the nose is always black.
Yorkies have medium-sized, dark, sparkling eyes that show a lot of intelligence. Their ears are small, V-shaped, and stand up—never too far apart.
The body has a moderate spring of rib and a good loin with a level back. Legs are straight, feet are round with black nails.
When your Yorkie moves, you should see free movement with drive and straight action front and back.
Coat Colours and Textures
The Yorkshire Terrier coat is moderately long, perfectly straight, and glossy, with a fine, silky feel. The hair should never be wavy or woolly, and it shouldn’t get in the way when your dog moves.
The body’s coat is a dark steel blue (not silver blue), stretching from the back of the head to the tail’s root. This blue shouldn’t be mixed with fawn, bronze, or dark hairs.
The chest has rich, bright tan hair. The fall on the head is long and golden tan, deeper at the sides of the head, around the ear roots, and on the muzzle.
All tan hair is darker at the roots and gets lighter at the tips. The tan on the head shouldn’t go onto the neck, and no dark or sooty hair should mix in with the tan.
Distinctive Features
Probably the most striking thing about Yorkies is the long coat that hangs straight and even down both sides, parted from nose to tail. That’s what gives them their famous glamorous look.
The tail, docked or not, has plenty of hair and is a darker blue than the body, especially at the end. It’s carried a little higher than the back.
The ears have short hair in a deep, rich tan. The legs are covered with golden tan hair, lighter at the ends than at the roots, and it doesn’t go higher than the elbow on the front legs or the stifles on the back legs.
Common Personality Traits
Yorkshire Terriers pack a lot of personality into a tiny body. They show confidence that often surprises people who’ve never owned one.
These toy breeds form deep bonds with their families. At the same time, they have an independent streak that makes them pretty entertaining.
Temperament and Nature
Your Yorkie will probably greet the world with a spirited and confident attitude that doesn’t match their size. Even though they’re small, these dogs act like they’re ten feet tall.
Yorkies are naturally alert and intelligent. They learn quickly and can adapt to different living situations.
You’ll notice your Yorkie is always aware of what’s going on and ready to announce anything unusual. Their terrier background means they’re active and fun-loving.
These aren’t just lap dogs that sit quietly all day—they need mental stimulation and physical activity. Many Yorkies show a determined, sometimes stubborn side.
This independence can make training a challenge, but their eagerness to please usually comes through. They’re vocal by nature, which actually makes them pretty good watchdogs for their size.
Interaction With Children and Other Pets
Your Yorkie can live with other dogs and cats in your house. Their small size means you have to watch them around young kids who might play too rough.
Supervision is important when toddlers are around. These toy breeds often form strong bonds with their families but might be a bit cautious with strangers.
You’ll probably find your Yorkie is picky about who gets their affection. Early socialisation helps them feel more comfortable with new people and situations.
Their natural “ratter” instincts mean they might chase smaller pets like hamsters or gerbils. That prey drive is just part of their history as vermin hunters.
Keep small animals safely away from your Yorkie, just to be safe. With proper introductions, most Yorkies adapt to living with other pets.
Their social nature lets them enjoy having animal buddies around the house.
Behavioural Quirks
Yorkshire Terriers have quirks that can be both charming and, honestly, a bit of a handful. Separation anxiety pops up a lot—these little dogs get seriously attached to their people. You might see your Yorkie get anxious or even a little frantic when you leave the house.
Barking is another biggie. Yorkies stay on high alert, so they’ll bark at visitors, other dogs, or even odd noises outside. Sometimes, if they get bored, they’ll start digging too.
A poll of over 2,000 Yorkie owners found housebreaking is the toughest issue at 22%, then separation anxiety at 18%, and barking at 16%. Owners usually call their Yorkies affectionate, stubborn, playful, and protective.
Your Yorkie will probably show a demanding streak. They know what they want and they’re not subtle about it. That boldness, mixed with their affection, gives Yorkies a personality that’s hard not to love—even when they drive you a little nuts.
Life With a Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers bring so much energy and warmth into any home. They need daily exercise, mental activities, and a safe environment to feel their best.
These little dogs really thrive when you keep their days structured and interactive. If you’re not around much, they’ll definitely let you know they’re bored.
Daily Living and Environment
Your Yorkshire Terrier can adapt to most living spaces, from city flats to homes with gardens. They don’t need a ton of room, but they do need a safe space to roam.
Puppy-proofing is essential. Pick up small objects they might chew and keep electrical cords out of reach.
Temperature is more important than you might think. Yorkies have silky coats but no undercoat, so they get chilly easily.
Make sure they have warm bedding, and don’t be shy about putting a coat on them for winter walks. It’s not just for looks—it really helps.
Set up a cozy spot for your Yorkie to retreat to. Even though they love your lap, they appreciate a bed in a quiet corner where they can chill out.
Stick to a daily routine for meals, walks, and play. Yorkies love predictability, and it helps keep their nerves in check.
Exercise Needs
Your Yorkshire Terrier needs about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day, split into shorter bursts. Regular walks let them burn off energy and explore new smells.
Don’t let their size fool you. Yorkies are surprisingly energetic and enjoy more than just slow strolls.
Try short walks around the block, games of fetch, or even a bit of indoor play. All of this keeps them fit and happy.
Signs your Yorkie needs more exercise might look like:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Chewing up your stuff
- Hyperactive zoomies
- Packing on a few extra pounds even with normal feeding
Mix in training sessions during exercise time. It gives their brain a workout too. Some Yorkies really shine at agility—don’t be surprised if yours loves it.
Mental Stimulation and Enrichment
Yorkies are smart, and they need regular mental challenges to stay balanced. If they get bored, you’ll probably see more barking or even some mischief.
Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing gadgets can keep them busy for ages. Rotate toys every week or so to keep things fresh.
Try hiding treats around the house. Turning mealtime into a treasure hunt keeps them engaged and happy.
Training is another great way to challenge their minds. Teaching new tricks only takes 5 to 10 minutes at a time, but it makes a big difference.
Don’t forget about socialisation. Arrange playdates with other dogs or visit dog-friendly spots. New experiences help prevent anxiety and keep your Yorkie sharp as they get older.
Health and Wellness
Yorkshire Terriers have a few health quirks you’ll want to keep an eye on. Regular vet care and early screening really do make a difference for their quality of life.
Breed-Specific Health Issues
Your Yorkie might inherit some conditions, so it’s worth watching out. Dental disease is common because their mouths are tiny, so tartar builds up quickly and can lead to tooth loss if you don’t stay on top of it.
Luxating patella is another issue—basically, their kneecap slips out of place. You might spot your Yorkie holding up a back leg or skipping when they walk.
Tracheal collapse can be a real problem. Their windpipe weakens, leading to that classic honking cough, especially if they get excited or wear a collar instead of a harness.
Portosystemic shunt affects the liver, so toxins don’t get filtered out. You might notice stunted growth, confusion after meals, or drooling. Eye problems like retinal atrophy and cataracts can also show up as your Yorkie ages.
Understanding Lifelong Veterinary Care
Your Yorkie needs consistent vet care to stay healthy. Annual or bi-annual visits cover vaccines, parasite prevention, and general checkups.
Puppy stage (0-1 year): Take your pup in every 3-4 weeks for shots and growth checks. Vets also look out for hypoglycaemia, which can be scary in tiny puppies.
Adult stage (1-10 years): Yearly exams help catch issues early. The vet will check teeth, heart, breathing, and joints.
Senior stage (10+ years): Go twice a year. Your older Yorkie needs extra checks for heart, dental, and hormonal health.
Brush your Yorkie’s teeth every day and plan for annual professional cleanings. Dental care isn’t just cosmetic—it keeps infections from spreading to important organs.
Screening and Prevention
Early screening helps you spot genetic issues before they get out of hand. If you’re getting a puppy, make sure the breeder checks for patella, trachea, eyes, and liver health.
Recommended health screenings:
- Patella evaluation – Annual physical exam
- Ophthalmic exam – Yearly eye checks
- Liver function tests – Bloodwork for liver shunt
- Urinalysis – Check for bladder stones
- Cardiac assessment – Listen for murmurs in older Yorkies
Prevention matters. Feed small meals throughout the day to avoid hypoglycaemia, especially for puppies. Use a harness to protect their throat, and keep their weight healthy to avoid joint stress and patella problems.
Stay on top of flea, tick, and heartworm prevention all year. Watch for subtle changes—Yorkies sometimes hide pain until it’s a big problem.
Grooming and Care Essentials
Your Yorkie’s silky coat and health depend on regular grooming. That means brushing, bathing, and dental care—not just for looks, but to catch health problems early.
Coat Maintenance and Brushing
Your Yorkie’s long coat needs daily brushing to avoid tangles and mats. Use a slicker brush for most of the job, brushing gently in the direction the hair grows.
Pay extra attention behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar—those spots mat up fast. If you hit a knot, hold the fur near the skin and work it out slowly with a fine comb.
Handy tools for brushing:
- Slicker brush for daily use
- Pin brush for finishing
- Fine-toothed comb for detail work
- Detangling spray for stubborn mats
Brushing is a good time to check for skin issues or parasites. Make it fun—give treats and praise so grooming feels like bonding, not a chore.
Bathing and Hygiene
Bathe your Yorkie every two to three weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. Pick products made for small breeds to avoid harsh chemicals.
Wet their coat with lukewarm water, lather up with shampoo, and rinse thoroughly. Any leftover soap can irritate their skin, so take your time.
Use conditioner to keep the coat soft and manageable. Yorkies’ hair tangles easily when dry, so this step really helps.
Pat your dog dry with a towel or use a pet-safe blow dryer on low. Keep the dryer moving and don’t hold it too close. Brush the coat while it’s still damp to head off new tangles.
Dental Care for Yorkies
Yorkies get dental issues because of their tiny, crowded teeth. Brush their teeth daily with dog toothpaste and a soft brush to fight plaque and gum disease.
Let your dog sniff and lick the toothbrush first. Once they’re okay with it, gently lift their lip and brush in small circles, focusing on the gum line.
Daily brushing helps prevent:
- Tooth decay
- Gum infections
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss as they age
Offer dental chews between brushings for extra help with plaque. Schedule regular dental checkups so your vet can spot problems early and handle professional cleanings when needed.
Choosing and Bringing Home a Yorkshire Terrier
Finding the right Yorkshire Terrier starts with choosing where to get your new companion. You can go through a breeder or consider adoption instead.
Preparing your home will help your Yorkshire Terrier puppy settle in safely and comfortably. It’s worth putting in the effort before they arrive.
Finding a Responsible Breeder
When you’re looking for a Yorkshire Terrier puppy, finding a responsible breeder is a huge decision. A reputable breeder should register with The Kennel Club and be happy to show you both parents of the litter.
They’ll provide health certificates and talk openly about any genetic issues in their breeding lines. If you can’t get clear info, that’s a red flag.
Visit the breeder’s home to see where the puppies are raised. The space should look clean, and the puppies should seem healthy and well-socialised.
A good breeder will let you meet the puppies and their parents so you know you’re getting a happy, healthy companion. Don’t skip this step—it’s important.
Ask plenty of questions about the puppy’s health history, vaccinations, and temperament. A responsible breeder will also want to know about you, to make sure their puppy is going to the right home.
They might offer ongoing support after you take your Yorkshire Terrier home. That’s always a good sign.
Be wary of breeders with multiple litters available at once or those who won’t let you see where the dogs live. These are big warning signs that the breeder may not have the puppies’ best interests at heart.
Adopting or Rehoming a Yorkie
Adoption offers a wonderful alternative to buying from a breeder. Many Yorkshire Terriers need loving homes through rescue organisations and rehoming centres.
These dogs often come already house-trained and might be calmer than puppies. When you adopt, you’ll usually pay lower fees than buying from a breeder.
The adoption centre will often provide information about the dog’s history, temperament, and any special needs. They’ll also make sure the Yorkshire Terrier is vaccinated and neutered before rehoming.
Rescued Yorkies may need extra patience as they adjust to their new environment. Some have experienced trauma or neglect, but with time and care, they can become devoted companions.
Visit the dog several times before making your final decision. This helps you understand their personality and check if you’re a good match.
Preparing for Your Yorkshire Terrier Puppy
Before your Yorkshire Terrier puppy arrives, you need to prepare your home to keep them safe. Remove small items they might swallow and secure loose cables.
Put away toxic plants or chemicals. Baby gates can help block off stairs or rooms that could be dangerous.
You’ll need essential supplies ready for your puppy’s first day. Here’s what to gather:
- A comfortable bed or crate
- Food and water bowls
- High-quality puppy food
- A collar, lead, and identification tag
- Toys for play and teething
- Grooming supplies including a brush
- Puppy training pads
Set up a designated area where your Yorkshire Terrier puppy can feel secure. This space should include their bed, food, and water.
Creating a cosy spot helps them relax and settle in. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just comfortable and quiet.
Choose a veterinarian before bringing your puppy home. Schedule a check-up within the first few days to establish their health records and talk through vaccination schedules.
Financial Considerations and Pet Insurance
Owning a Yorkshire Terrier comes with ongoing expenses that go way beyond the purchase price. You’ll run into daily care items and, sometimes, unexpected vet bills.
Understanding these costs and exploring pet insurance options helps you provide the best care for your Yorkie without financial stress. It’s not fun to think about, but it’s important.
Cost of Ownership
When you bring a Yorkshire Terrier into your home, you’ll first need to budget for the puppy itself. In the UK, purchasing a Yorkshire Terrier ranges from £1,200 to £2,000, depending on the breeder and pedigree.
Beyond the initial purchase, you’ll need some essential equipment. This includes a lead, collar, harness, dog bed, grooming brush, toys, and dental care supplies.
Yorkies need regular grooming because their coats just keep growing. You’ll either book monthly professional grooming sessions or invest in good grooming tools for home care.
Food costs are pretty modest since Yorkies eat less than bigger dogs. But you’ll also want to think about training classes, boarding kennel fees if you travel, and routine vet care like vaccinations, worming, and neutering.
These preventative treatments usually aren’t covered by insurance but are essential for your dog’s wellbeing. It’s all part of the deal.
Selecting Pet Insurance
Yorkshire Terriers are one of the least expensive dog breeds to insure. Pet insurance is an affordable way to protect against unexpected vet bills.
You can compare Yorkshire Terrier insurance from £5.26 to find coverage that suits your budget. Don’t just pick the first one you see—shop around.
When choosing a policy, consider your Yorkie’s health risks. Yorkshire Terriers are prone to issues like collapsed trachea, eye disorders, and luxating patella, which can mean expensive surgery and rehab.
A comprehensive policy should cover these breed-specific issues. Look for lifetime coverage that protects your dog throughout their life, not just for a year.
Check whether the policy includes a 24-hour vet helpline and online policy management. Getting insurance while your Yorkshire Terrier is young usually means better coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yorkshire Terriers need regular brushing to prevent tangles. They do best with frequent small meals to keep blood sugar stable, and they respond well to consistent positive reinforcement training—even if they can be stubborn.
What’s the best way to groom your little pup at home?
Your Yorkie’s coat needs daily attention to stay healthy and tangle-free. Use a pin brush and metal comb each day to work through their silky hair gently.
Regular brushing strengthens your bond with your pup and keeps their coat looking great. Pay extra attention behind the ears and under the legs—mats love those spots.
Bathe your Yorkshire Terrier every two to four weeks using a gentle dog shampoo. A leave-in conditioner helps keep their coat silky between baths.
How often should we take our furry friend for a professional trim?
Professional grooming every six to eight weeks helps keep your Yorkie’s coat manageable. This schedule works for most owners who want to keep at-home grooming simple.
If you like a longer, show-style coat, you’ll need more frequent professional visits. Talk with your groomer about what fits your lifestyle and your Yorkie’s needs.
What kind of diet keeps these pups in tip-top shape?
Your adult Yorkshire Terrier needs three small meals spread evenly throughout the day. This feeding schedule helps prevent hypoglycaemia by keeping blood sugar levels stable.
Puppies require even more frequent feeding—three to four meals daily—since they’re more susceptible to low blood sugar. Choose high-quality, protein-rich food made for small breeds.
Portion control really matters for Yorkies. A healthy adult typically weighs around 3.2 kg, and keeping them at that weight helps protect their joints and heart.
Yorkshire Terriers are smart, but their terrier nature makes them stubborn and independent. Patience and consistency are your best friends when training your pup.
Start house training early with a regular routine. Many Yorkies dislike wet paws, so you might run into some resistance when it’s raining.
Positive reinforcement works wonders with these clever dogs. Reward good behaviour right away with treats or praise so your Yorkie understands what you want.
What’s the most loving approach to introduce a new family member to our home?
Create a quiet, comfortable space where your new Yorkshire Terrier can retreat if they’re feeling overwhelmed. This safe zone helps them adjust at their own pace.
Puppies sleep up to 22 hours daily during their early development stages. Respect this need for rest by limiting interaction times and providing a peaceful sleeping area.
Introduce family members gradually, letting your Yorkie approach people on their own terms. Keep those first meetings calm and gentle to build trust from the start.
How can you tell if your four-legged companion is feeling under the weather?
Yorkshire Terriers face certain health challenges like dental disease, patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, and eye problems.
If your Yorkie starts limping, struggles to breathe, or eats less than usual, those could be warning signs.
Puppies that seem tired or weak might have low blood sugar. That’s something you shouldn’t ignore.
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on young Yorkies between meals for any signs of hypoglycaemia.
Take your dog for regular checkups. Even if your pup seems fine, those routine visits can catch things early and keep them feeling their best.
