Yorkshire Terrier
History:
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in Yorkshire and Lancashire, England, during the mid-19th century. Scottish weavers who migrated to northern England brought several small terrier breeds with them, which were selectively bred to create a compact, fearless dog capable of controlling rats and other vermin in textile mills and coal mines. Over time, the breed's elegant appearance and affectionate personality made it increasingly popular as a companion dog.
Despite its small size, the Yorkshire Terrier retained the courage, determination, and confidence of its working terrier ancestors. It soon became one of the world's most recognisable toy breeds, valued for its intelligence, adaptability, and distinctive silky coat.
Today, the Yorkshire Terrier is admired as a loyal family companion, spirited toy breed, and adaptable companion dog known for its intelligence, confidence, and elegant appearance.
If you want to learn about other Terrier breeds, check out our page "Different Terrier Dog Breeds".
| Gender | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 18 to 23 cm | 2.5 to 3.2 kg |
| Female | 18 to 22 cm | 2.3 to 3.2 kg |
Size: Small
Life Expectancy: 11 to 15 years
Breed Appearance:
The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact, elegant, and well-balanced dog with a fine yet sturdy build.
The breed commonly features:
- Small, flat head
- Fine, medium-length muzzle
- Dark, sparkling eyes
- Small, erect, V-shaped ears
- Compact chest
- Long, graceful neck
- Straight, well-developed limbs
- Medium-length tail carried slightly above the level of the back where permitted
Its long, straight, silky coat is fine in texture and parts naturally along the spine.
Common coat colours include:
- Steel blue and tan
- Blue and gold
Puppies are born black and tan, with the adult coat colour developing as they mature.
The breed's luxurious silky coat and elegant outline reflect its heritage as a refined English companion terrier.
Breed Type – Toy Dog:
The Yorkshire Terrier is an intelligent, affectionate, and confident toy breed.
It is known for being:
- Loyal
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Alert
- Courageous
- Playful
The breed forms exceptionally strong bonds with its family and is generally good with older children and other pets when properly socialised. It retains a natural instinct to chase small animals.
Training:
The Yorkshire Terrier is highly intelligent and eager to please.
Training should focus on:
- Early socialisation
- Positive reinforcement methods
- Basic obedience training
- House training
- Leash manners
- Consistent leadership
The breed excels in:
- Obedience
- Agility
- Rally
- Trick training
- Therapy work
- Companion activities
Structured, reward-based training helps the breed become a confident and well-mannered companion.
Health & Care:
The Yorkshire Terrier is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Portosystemic shunt
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Dental disease
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.
Living Conditions:
The Yorkshire Terrier adapts well to a variety of living environments provided it receives regular exercise and close family companionship.
Ideal environments include:
- Apartments
- Houses
- Urban or suburban homes
- Singles or families
- Experienced or committed first-time dog owners
The breed prefers living indoors with its family and should be protected from extreme cold due to its fine coat.
Exercise:
The Yorkshire Terrier has moderate exercise requirements.
Recommended activities include:
- Daily walks
- Interactive play
- Obedience training
- Trick training
- Puzzle toys
- Mental enrichment activities
Regular physical activity and mental stimulation are essential to maintain the breed's physical and mental well-being.
Grooming:
The long, silky coat requires high maintenance.
- Daily brushing for long coats
- Professional trimming every six to eight weeks if kept in a shorter pet clip
- Occasional bathing
- Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
- Regular dental care
The breed sheds very little throughout the year.
