Yorkshire Terriers, often referred to as Yorkies, are one of the most beloved toy breeds, known for their confident personalities and luxurious, silky coats. Despite their small size, Yorkies are full of spunk and are often described as “big dogs in little bodies.” These loyal companions have a rich history, distinctive physical characteristics, and a strong need for human connection, making them ideal pets for dedicated owners.

Breed Background: The Yorkshire Terrier originated in England during the 19th century and was initially bred to hunt rats in textile mills and mines. They were developed by Scottish weavers who migrated to Yorkshire, bringing small terriers with them that eventually became the foundation for the modern Yorkie. Over time, they transitioned from working dogs to fashionable companions among the English aristocracy, thanks to their glamorous appearance and small stature. Today, Yorkies are cherished as lap dogs and companions, admired for their elegance and lively temperament.

Appearance: Yorkshire Terriers are renowned for their stunning coats, which resemble human hair more than typical dog fur. Their long, fine hair is straight, silky, and can grow to floor length if allowed, often trimmed into fashionable styles like the "puppy cut" for ease of maintenance. The traditional Yorkie colour is a striking combination of blue and tan, with a rich, dark steel-blue coat over the body and a golden tan on the face, chest, and legs. Yorkies are a small breed, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds (2 to 3.2 kilograms) and standing 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 centimeters) tall at the shoulder.

Physical Characteristics: Despite their toy status, Yorkshire Terriers possess a well-proportioned and athletic build. Their compact bodies, upright posture, and high-carried tails give them an air of confidence. They have small, dark eyes that sparkle with intelligence and alertness, and their V-shaped ears stand erect, adding to their attentive and bold appearance. Yorkies also have a distinctively long muzzle and a small, yet strong, jaw.

Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers are known for their feisty, energetic, and affectionate nature. Although small, they are courageous and sometimes behave as if they’re much larger than they really are. They are incredibly loyal to their owners and thrive on companionship, often forming strong bonds with one or two family members. Yorkies can be wary of strangers and may exhibit a protective streak, making them good watchdogs. They are also known for their playful and adventurous spirit, which can sometimes border on stubbornness.

Yorkies tend to be good with older children who know how to handle small dogs gently, but their fragile size means they may not be the best choice for homes with very young kids. Socialising them early helps prevent excessive shyness or aggression toward other pets or new people.

Activity Level: Although Yorkshire Terriers don’t require the same level of physical exercise as larger breeds, they are still surprisingly active for their size. A Yorkie’s small stature allows them to meet their exercise needs with short daily walks and indoor play sessions. About 30 minutes of activity per day, combined with mental stimulation through toys or games, is usually enough to keep them satisfied. However, don’t be fooled by their size—they have the energy and boldness to chase after a ball or play for extended periods when given the chance.

Health: Yorkies are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are predisposed to certain health conditions. Common issues include dental problems, given their small mouths and tightly packed teeth, and tracheal collapse, where the windpipe weakens and causes breathing difficulties. Yorkies may also suffer from luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and certain eye conditions such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary care and preventive health measures, such as dental cleanings and weight management, are essential to ensure a healthy Yorkie.

Lifespan: With proper care, Yorkshire Terriers can live long, fulfilling lives. Their average lifespan is between 12 and 16 years, though many Yorkies enjoy good health well into their senior years. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of love and attention are key factors in keeping your Yorkie healthy and extending their life expectancy.

Grooming a Yorkshire Terrier is an essential part of their care routine, and it involves more than just brushing their luxurious coats. Regular grooming keeps your Yorkie looking their best while also maintaining their health and comfort. From coat maintenance to dental care, grooming your Yorkie should be a consistent part of your routine, as their long, silky hair and small stature require extra attention.

Grooming Requirements: Yorkies have a unique coat that resembles human hair rather than typical dog fur, and this means they need frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Daily brushing is ideal, especially if you keep their coat long, as it helps distribute natural oils and keeps the coat healthy and shiny. A pin brush or slicker brush works well for their fine hair. For owners who prefer a lower-maintenance option, the "puppy cut" is a popular style where the coat is trimmed short. This cut not only makes grooming easier but also gives your Yorkie a cute and playful appearance.

Bathing: Bathing your Yorkshire Terrier is crucial to maintaining their coat’s health and appearance. Yorkies should be bathed every two to four weeks, depending on how dirty their coat gets. Use a gentle, moisturising dog shampoo to prevent drying out their sensitive skin and hair. After bathing, it’s important to fully dry your Yorkie using a towel or low-heat blow dryer to avoid leaving their coat damp, which can lead to cold-related issues or mildew in longer hair. Always be gentle when handling their fine coat during and after a bath to prevent breakage.

Dental Care: Yorkshire Terriers are prone to dental issues due to their small mouths, which can lead to overcrowded teeth and plaque build-up. To maintain good oral hygiene, brush your Yorkie’s teeth at least two to three times a week using a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Regular brushing helps prevent tartar, gum disease, and tooth decay. Dental dog chews and toys can also supplement their oral care routine, but nothing replaces the effectiveness of regular brushing. Additionally, schedule professional dental cleanings with your vet to keep your Yorkie’s teeth in top condition.

Clean Ears: Due to their small size and delicate features, Yorkshire Terriers’ ears are prone to wax build-up and infections if not properly cleaned. Check your Yorkie’s ears weekly for any signs of redness, bad odour, or excessive wax, as these can be signs of infection. Clean their ears using a vet-recommended ear cleaner and a soft cotton pad, gently wiping the outer ear. Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal to prevent injury. Regular ear maintenance will help prevent infections and ensure your Yorkie’s ears stay healthy and clean.

Nail Trimming: Nail trimming is an important aspect of grooming your Yorkshire Terrier. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort or even lead to injury, particularly for such a small breed. Ideally, you should trim your Yorkie’s nails every three to four weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use dog-specific nail clippers and be careful not to cut too close to the quick, the sensitive area of the nail that can cause bleeding. If you're unsure about trimming nails yourself, a professional groomer can help keep them at a healthy length.

While Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy dogs, they can be prone to specific health problems that require attention. Awareness of these common issues will help you spot early signs and ensure your Yorkie gets the care they need to live a happy, healthy life.

Dental Problems: Due to their small mouths and crowded teeth, Yorkies are particularly prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Without regular dental care, tartar can accumulate, leading to painful conditions and even tooth loss. To combat these issues, frequent tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings are necessary.

Tracheal Collapse: Tracheal collapse is a common issue in small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers. This condition occurs when the cartilage in the trachea weakens, causing difficulty breathing and a persistent, honking cough. While it can be managed with medication or a harness to reduce pressure on the neck, in severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem.

Luxating Patella: Luxating patella, or slipping kneecaps, is another health concern seen in Yorkies. This condition occurs when the kneecap temporarily dislocates, causing the dog to limp or hop. Mild cases may not require surgery, but severe luxation can lead to pain and arthritis, often necessitating corrective surgery to stabilise the knee.

Hypoglycemia: Yorkshire Terrier puppies, in particular, can suffer from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can result in weakness, confusion, trembling, or even seizures. This condition is more common in tiny Yorkies or those who don’t eat regularly. Keeping your puppy on a consistent feeding schedule and providing high-quality food can help prevent these episodes. In severe cases, glucose supplements may be necessary.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is an inherited eye condition that leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually causing blindness. While there is no cure for PRA, early detection through regular veterinary eye exams can help monitor the progression. Keeping your Yorkie safe in a familiar environment can help them adjust if their vision starts to decline.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This condition affects the hip joint, causing the femoral head to deteriorate, leading to pain and lameness. It typically manifests in young Yorkies between five and eight months of age. Treatment options range from anti-inflammatory medications to surgical intervention in severe cases. If your Yorkie starts limping or showing signs of discomfort, early veterinary intervention is essential to manage the condition.

Training a Yorkshire Terrier requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. While these small dogs are highly intelligent and capable of learning a variety of commands, they can also be quite independent and stubborn, making early and consistent training crucial. Starting with basic obedience training while your Yorkie is still a puppy is key to establishing good habits that will last throughout their life. However, even adult Yorkies can be trained effectively with the right techniques.

Positive Reinforcement: Yorkshire Terriers respond best to positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding good behaviour with treats, praise, or affection. Using treats as an incentive can be particularly effective, as Yorkies are highly motivated by food. Whenever your dog successfully follows a command—whether it's sitting, staying, or coming when called—immediately reward them with a small treat and enthusiastic praise. Keep training sessions short and engaging, as Yorkies can lose focus if sessions drag on too long. Aim for 10-15 minute sessions, repeated a few times throughout the day to keep your dog interested.

Consistency is Key: Yorkshire Terriers thrive when they know what to expect, so being consistent with your commands and expectations is crucial. Use the same words and gestures for commands to avoid confusing your dog. For example, always use "sit" for sitting rather than switching between words like "sit" and "down." Consistent rewards and praise when your Yorkie behaves correctly will help them understand what is expected. On the flip side, avoid scolding or punishing your Yorkie for mistakes, as negative reinforcement can make them anxious and reluctant to participate in training.

Socialisation and House Training: Socialisation is an essential part of training your Yorkshire Terrier. Exposing them to new people, environments, and other dogs early in life will help them develop into well-rounded, confident adults. Puppy classes are a great way to socialise your Yorkie and introduce them to basic commands in a structured environment. House training can sometimes be a challenge with small breeds, including Yorkies. Crate training can be very effective in teaching your Yorkie to control their bladder and bowels. Make sure to take them outside frequently, especially after meals or naps, and reward them with treats when they go in the right place.

Keeping your Yorkshire Terrier active is essential for their overall health and happiness. Despite their small size, Yorkies have a surprising amount of energy and benefit from both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Incorporating a variety of activities into your dog’s daily routine will help prevent boredom, reduce behavioural issues, and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Fetch and Playtime: Yorkshire Terriers may be small, but they love playing games like fetch! A small, lightweight ball or toy is perfect for playing indoors or in a secure outdoor space. Not only does fetch provide a fun way for your Yorkie to burn off energy, but it also gives them a chance to practice their recall skills. When playing fetch, be sure to use toys that are appropriately sized for your Yorkie’s small mouth and avoid toys that are too large or heavy.

Puzzle Toys and Brain Games: Yorkies are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental challenges, so offering puzzle toys can keep them entertained for hours. Toys that hide treats or require problem-solving, such as treat-dispensing balls or dog interactive puzzles, are great options to stimulate their mind. These activities help channel their natural curiosity and prevent them from becoming bored, which can lead to unwanted behaviours like barking or chewing.

Short Walks and Exploration: While Yorkshire Terriers don’t need the extensive exercise that larger breeds require, they still enjoy daily walks and the opportunity to explore the world around them. A short, 20-30 minute walk each day provides ample exercise and is also a great way to stimulate their senses. Walking your Yorkie also gives them a chance to socialise with other dogs and people, which is important for keeping them well-behaved and confident.

Agility Training: Yorkies are surprisingly agile and enjoy participating in agility exercises. You can set up a small obstacle course in your backyard or find an agility class tailored to small dogs. This kind of training not only provides physical exercise but also gives your Yorkie a mental workout as they learn to navigate tunnels, jumps, and weave poles. Agility training can help build confidence and is a fun way to bond with your dog.

By incorporating these activities into your Yorkshire Terrier’s routine, you can ensure they stay physically fit, mentally sharp, and content. Remember, a well-exercised Yorkie is a happy Yorkie!

While Yorkshire Terriers are known for their affectionate and lively personalities, they can sometimes develop behavioural issues if not properly trained and socialised. Due to their small size and bold nature, Yorkies may exhibit traits such as excessive barking, separation anxiety, and aggression toward other animals if these behaviours aren’t addressed early on. Understanding their natural tendencies and addressing problems promptly will help ensure your Yorkie is a well-mannered and happy companion.

Excessive Barking: One of the most common behavioural issues in Yorkshire Terriers is excessive barking. As a breed originally used to alert their owners to potential threats, Yorkies can be vocal, barking at any noise or disturbance. While this makes them excellent watchdogs, it can become problematic if they bark constantly. To reduce excessive barking, it’s important to identify the cause. If your Yorkie is barking out of boredom or anxiety, providing mental stimulation through toys or regular playtime can help. Teaching the “quiet” command through positive reinforcement can also curb this behaviour, rewarding them with treats when they stop barking on command.

Separation Anxiety: Yorkshire Terriers form strong bonds with their owners and can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Signs of separation anxiety include destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or pacing when you're away. To manage this, try gradually increasing the time your Yorkie spends alone, starting with short absences and slowly building up to longer periods. Providing comfort items like a favourite toy or blanket and leaving calming music or a radio on can help ease their anxiety. Over time, your Yorkie will become more comfortable with being alone.

Aggression Toward Other Animals: Despite their small size, Yorkshire Terriers can sometimes show aggression toward other dogs or animals, especially if they haven’t been properly socialised. Yorkies have a strong terrier instinct, which can make them territorial and sometimes overly confident around larger animals. Early Socialisation is crucial to help prevent this behaviour. Introducing your Yorkie to other dogs, cats, and animals in a controlled environment can help them learn proper behaviour and reduce aggressive tendencies. If aggression persists, obedience training and consulting a professional trainer may be necessary.

Proper nutrition is essential for the overall health and longevity of your Yorkshire Terrier. Due to their small size and active nature, Yorkies require a balanced diet tailored to meet their specific needs. From the puppy stage to adulthood, feeding your Yorkie the right type and amount of food will ensure they stay energetic and healthy throughout their life.

General Nutritional Needs: Yorkshire Terriers thrive on a high-quality diet that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Their small bodies need nutrient-dense food to support their metabolism and energy levels. Look for high-quality commercial dog food that includes real meat, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, as the first ingredient, along with whole grains, vegetables, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Additionally, because Yorkies are prone to dental issues, dry kibble is often recommended to help reduce plaque build-up, though a mix of wet food can be added for variety.

Feeding Yorkshire Terrier Puppies: Yorkie puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their rapid growth and development. During the first year of life, it's important to feed them a diet formulated for small-breed puppies. These formulas are higher in calories and contain the right balance of nutrients to fuel their growth. Puppies should be fed small, frequent meals—usually three to four times a day—because their tiny stomachs can’t handle large portions. As your Yorkie puppy matures, you can gradually reduce feeding frequency to two meals a day.

Puppies are also prone to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), especially if they miss a meal or don’t eat enough. To prevent this, ensure they eat regularly and consider keeping a glucose supplement or honey on hand to give them in case of an emergency.

Adult Yorkshire Terrier Nutrition: Once your Yorkie reaches adulthood (around 12 months of age), their caloric needs will decrease slightly, and they should transition to a small-breed adult dog food. Yorkshire Terriers are active, but they don't require as many calories as larger dogs. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain, which may exacerbate health issues such as joint problems or diabetes. Stick to feeding guidelines based on your dog’s weight and activity level, and monitor their condition closely to avoid obesity.

It’s also important to provide your Yorkie with plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated, especially because their active nature can lead to quick water loss. Always ensure your dog has easy access to clean drinking water throughout the day.

Senior Yorkie Nutritional Needs: As your Yorkshire Terrier enters their senior years (usually around age 7 to 8), their nutritional needs will change. Senior dogs may benefit from a diet lower in calories to prevent weight gain and higher in fibre to aid digestion. Joint supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, can be beneficial for preventing arthritis, a common issue in older Yorkies. Additionally, senior Yorkies may develop dental problems that make it harder to chew dry kibble, so incorporating wet food or softer kibble designed for senior dogs can make mealtime easier for them.

In conclusion, feeding your Yorkshire Terrier the right diet at every stage of life—whether puppy, adult, or senior—is essential to ensuring they live a long, healthy, and happy life. By following these nutritional guidelines, you can help keep your Yorkie fit, energetic, and well-nourished.

Whether you already have a Yorkshire Terrier or are considering bringing one into your home, we hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into caring for this delightful breed. While this article covers many of the essentials, it’s important to continue learning about your Yorkie's unique personality, needs, and health throughout their life. Always seek out new information from trusted sources and connect with other Yorkie owners to share experiences and tips. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to provide your Yorkshire Terrier with the love, care, and attention they deserve for a happy and healthy life.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe