Yorkshire Terriers are also known as Yorkies.

Unique Embroidered Greetings Cards for Lovers of Yorkshire Terriers

Make a page for your Yorkshire terrier. Share Yorkshire terrier rescue stories. Add to or browse Yorkie picture gallery Know about these dogs? Click EasyEdit to add info anywhere on this page. Yorkshire Terriers, otherwise known as Yorkies, have a long history of being popular pets and companions in the United States. While some people are put off by their small size and the typical bow at the top of the head, it would be a mistake to dismiss Yorkies as fluffy, timid lap dogs for old ladies. In many respects, this breed is more like a typical Terrier than the Yorkie's Toy group peers. Short History of the Breed Many believe Yorkshire Terriers evolved from a mix of English and Scottish Terriers when many Scots moved to England during the Industrial Revolution. Yorkies first appeared in England at a dog show in 1861, and were named Yorkshire Terriers for the location where they were first bred, Yorkshire, England. The breed quickly moved to the other side of the pond and due to the immediate popularity of the breed, became and AKC-recognized breed in 1885. Yorkshire Terriers have been one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. ever since.

Physical Description

Yorkshire Terriers are easily recognizable by their compact size and long tan and blue coat that traditionally parts on spine (with our without head bow). Yorkie height is typically six to seven inches and the breed standard requires that they should not exceed seven pounds in weight.

Temperament

Yorkies are notorious for ignoring their diminutive size, and can be very territorial and protective if provoked. They are bold, confident, and adventurous – any Yorkie owner is bound to have more than a few stories of their dog's spirited and mischievous behavior. Yorkshire Terriers are also clever, independent, energetic, and are very loyal and affectionate with their owners.

While a member of the Toy group, Yorkies maintain many of their Terrier characteristics, and as such, can sometimes be high-strung. They usually get along well with other cats and dogs as well as children, and they love to play in groups. However, Terriers can carry a powerful bite if surprised or startled. Due to their small size coupled with their temperment, they do not make good pets for very young children.

Exercise, Grooming, Diet

Part of the popularity of Yorkshire Terriers is that they make great apartment dogs. Yorkies benefit from regular exercise and love to play, but due to their small size, they can tolerate living in a small house or apartment, provided that they are given opportunities to exercise outdoors. Yorkies do not tolerate excessive heat or cold well, and should be considered primarily indoor dogs. However, all dogs benefit from regular exercise and the opportunity to go outside.


The long, silky coat requires a significant amount of grooming, and long bangs are usually secured with a bow at the top of the head. Many Yorkie owners minimize the grooming commitment and hair accessory needs by keeping their dog's hair short, but there will always be a need for regular and thorough grooming. A Yorkie kept in a short clip will still need a triming at least once a month. If you cannot groom and clip your Yorkie yourself, expect grooming to be a considerable expense to add to the cost of your Yorkie's care and maitenance. Frequent daily brushing will keep the coat in good, glossy condition.

Health Issues, Life Expectancy

Yorkies are prone to several chronic health conditions, including tooth decay, bronchitis, liver shunts, tracheal collapse, and high grade patella luxation. Tiny yorkies, marketed as “teacups” by the puppymill trade, are also prone to hypoglycemia, enlarged hearts and open frontals. They can also suffer from cataracts, diabetes, and cushings in old age. Despite these genetic predispositions, Yorkies can live for 12 to 15 years or more.

They can also suffer from cataracts and arthritis in old age. Despite these genetic predispositions, Yorkies can live for 12 to 15 years or more.

AKC Group

Yorkshire Terriers are an AKC-recognized breed in the Toy group. Other dogs in this group include the Pug, Shih Tzu, and Chihuahua.

Additional Resources

• Yorkshire Terrier Online Community - DogBreed.org
• AKC
• Yahoo! Pets
• Yorkshire Terrier Club of America
• The Yorkie Standard and what to be Aware of When Buying A Yorkie
• WorkingYorkie - Yorkies in Companion Events and dog sports galore! Check out the amazing accomplishments of Yorkies from all around the country!
• ShooterDog Yorkshire Terrier Internet Resouce
• Sweetyblue - all about those lovely show Yorkies Want to find great breeders? Learn about yorkie pedigrees? Here's the first place to check out!
• Yorkie Philes Yorkie Internet Resource
• The Mighty Mite Small Dog Sports Forum! Train Your Yorkie! Try out Agility! Flyball! Obedience and more!
• Just For Yorkies Yorkie Forum
• Yorkie Talk

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