All About the Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed
Temperament
The Yorkie's big sized temperament is independent of its physical carriage. Eager for adventure and sometimes even eager for trouble, Yorkies are often all over the place, being interested in everything. They are bold, stubborn, inquisitive, active and surprisingly aggressive toward unknown dogs and small animals, a nod toward their terrier heritage.
Physical characteristics
- Males and females should weigh fewer than 7 lbs. Males generally stand about 8-9" at the withers, as do the females.
- Their coat color should be blue and tan. Yorkshire Terriers are born with a black coat that changes colors as they mature.
- The Yorkshire Terrier has good health overall. Minor health concerns include patellar luxation, as well as less common ailments including portacaval shunt, PRA, tracheal collapes, and Legg-Perthes.
- Their life span is between 14-16 years.
At a Glance
| Group: |
Toy |
| Personality Type: |
Independent |
| Energy Level: |
High |
| Exercise Requirements: |
Very Low - 10 Minutes Daily |
| Playfulness: |
High |
| Ease of Training: |
Medium |
Why Yorkshire Terrier's are Great Dogs
Yorkies are well suited for watch-dog duties. Ever alert and quick to bark, they can keep a good look-out. Being small in size and requiring limited exercise they can be a good fit for apartment dwellers.
Small in size, they don't take up much space.
Low exercise needs, making them a good match for people who have a limited amount of time available for providing exercise or who have physical limitations that make walking the dog difficult.
They make good watchdogs, as they are quick to alert you of any possible intruders.
Challenges and Cautions for the Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies can be difficult dogs to train and they are not inclined to mix easily with other dogs, so the socialization and training efforts must be pursued actively. Additionally, though they are small their aggressive impulses should be replaced by socialized friendliness.
They are small dogs and are correspondingly fragile. Routine activities for a larger dog -- such as jumping off the couch -- can lead to injuries, even broken bones. This means that the owner will have to be careful about the Yorkie's environment. In addition, clear House Rules must be established as many owners will struggle with how to effectively discipline a dog of this size. Their terrier nature will incline them toward stubborn and sometimes aggressive actions, which need to be properly controlled and stopped without excessive force.
They require a lot of companionship and are susceptible to separation anxiety if they do not get enough attention and their daily activities aren't structured so that they know how to be alone peacefully.
Standoffish and proud of their role as a watchdog, they require a lot of socialization to make sure they are friendly toward people and pets.
They will bark like crazy. This is an advantage in a watchdog but can become annoying for owners and their neighbors.
If growing out a long coat, the grooming needs will be fairly extensive. The long coat will need brushing every other day, if not daily.
Some Yorkies are very small, the Teacup Yorkie. These dogs can weigh as little as 4 lbs. These dogs are extremely fragile and anyone considering acquiring one should be aware of this issue.
Because of their small size and terrier instincts, they are not the best match for a household with young children.
Need Help with a Behavior Problem?
Dog Training Recommendations for the Yorkshire Terrier
Consistent socialization is important. The Yorkie should meet lots of people, dogs, and even small animals under positive conditions so that he has a good chance of becoming friendly toward others. Consistent leadership is needed for these stubborn, but lovable, dogs.
Although their exercise needs are minimal, a short walk each day is recommended.
Focus early on teaching them when to bark to alert you and when to be quiet. Remember to reward appropriate behaviors.
Got A Yorkshire Terrier?
If you've got a Yorkshire Terrier who needs training, check out Dog Academy's free personalized programs.
If your Yorkshire Terrier is already perfect, stop by the forums and share your wisdom.
One last thing - while your dog is living the great life, there are millions of sweet, loving dogs that aren't doing so well. Please help by donating time or resources to local shelters or dog foster parents. You can also contribute to the national organizations to help them in their efforts.
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