Yorkshire Terrier

Get to Know Yorkshire Terriers

• Small but Brave: Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are known for their small size and big personality. Weighing only about 4 to 7 pounds, they are fearless, confident, and often act as though they are much larger dogs.
• Originally Bred for Ratting: Yorkies were originally bred in England during the 19th century to work in textile mills and mines, where they were used to catch rats and other small vermin. Their small size and agility made them perfect for this task.
• Luxurious Coat: Yorkshire Terriers have a long, silky coat that is often compared to human hair. Their coat is typically steel blue and tan in color and requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Many owners choose to keep their Yorkie's coat trimmed short for easier maintenance.
• Loyal Companions: Yorkies are known for their loyalty and strong attachment to their owners. They often form deep bonds with one person and can be protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs despite their small size.
• Highly Trainable: Despite their feisty nature, Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and trainable. They can learn a variety of commands and tricks, and they excel in activities such as obedience training and agility. Their quick learning ability and eagerness to please make them delightful companions.

Breed History

The Yorkshire Terrier, often affectionately known as the “Yorkie,” is a small but bold breed that originated in Yorkshire, England. Bred as a rat hunter in the 19th century, this spirited little dog was valued for its intelligence, loyalty, and tenacity. Despite its small size, the Yorkshire Terrier quickly became a beloved companion and is now one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide. The Yorkie’s glamorous, long, silky coat and feisty personality make it a charming addition to any family, whether in a city apartment or a suburban home.

Personality and Behaviour

• Confident and Spirited: Yorkshire Terriers are known for their bold and fearless attitude. They may be small in size, but they have a big personality and don’t hesitate to assert themselves. This spirited nature can sometimes make them seem bossy or territorial, so early socialization is important to ensure they behave well around other pets and strangers. Despite their small stature, Yorkies can be excellent watchdogs, alerting their owners to any perceived threats.
• Loyal and Affectionate: Yorkies are deeply loyal to their families and often form strong bonds with one person, although they can also be affectionate with others. Their loyalty makes them protective and they will bark to alert their owners to any unusual sounds or visitors. Despite their independent streak, they enjoy being close to their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• Intelligent and Curious: Yorkshire Terriers are highly intelligent and quick learners, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, their curiosity and independence can sometimes lead to stubbornness. Positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise, work well with this breed. They enjoy learning new tricks and tasks, making them suitable for various canine activities like agility and obedience training.

Care

• Exercise: Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed with moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and play sessions are important to keep them healthy and prevent behavioral issues caused by boredom. Due to their small size and delicate bones, avoid vigorous exercise and ensure they are not overexerted, especially in hot or humid weather. Short play sessions, interactive toys, and mental stimulation will help keep them active and engaged.
• Grooming: The Yorkshire Terrier’s long, silky coat is one of its most distinctive features. While not truly hypoallergenic, Yorkies can be allergy-friendly for some people. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat’s health and prevent matting. Brush their hair daily to prevent tangling, and trim it regularly to keep it manageable. Bathing once a week or as needed, nail trimming, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine. The hair around their eyes should be kept trimmed to prevent irritation and facilitate vision.
• Training and Socialization: Training a Yorkshire Terrier requires patience and consistency due to their independent nature. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods like treats, praise, and play. Early socialization is crucial to help Yorkies adapt to different environments, people, and other animals. Exposing them to various situations and experiences from a young age helps prevent anxiety and behavioral issues later on.