YORKSHIRE TERRIER

Temperament: Affectionate, Sprightly, Tomboyish

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 10 of 197

Height: 7-8 inches

Weight: 7 pounds

Life Expectancy: 11-15 years

Group: Toy Group

ABOUT THE YORKSHIRE TERRIER

Small in size but big in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier (YT) makes a feisty but loving companion.

The most popular toy dog breed in the United States, the “Yorkie” has won many fans with their devotion to their owners, their elegant looks, and their suitability to apartment living.

PERSONALITY

Smart and self-assured, the Yorkshire Terrier is a combination of endearingly small size and adventurous terrier spirit. Some are cuddly and perky, wanting nothing more than to follow in their people’s footsteps throughout the day. Others are mischievous, outgoing, and into everything.

Set limits, and your Yorkie will be a wonderful companion, but if you spoil him, watch out! Start training when they’re puppies, and you’ll have much better luck than if you let them have their way and then try to correct bad habits.

NUTRITION

Some YTs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.

HEALTH

The following conditions may affect Yorkies:

• Patellar Luxation
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Portosystemic Shunt
• Hypoglycemia
• Collapsed trachea
• Reverse sneezing

CARE

Yorkies will benefit from both moderate exercise, such as walks with their owner at a steady pace, as well as occasional short bursts of activity, such as chasing after a tennis ball in the backyard.

A short walk twice a day will likely be enough for your Yorkie to see new scenery and burn off energy. Participating in dog sports such as obedience or agility also will provide beneficial activity to keep him healthy, while challenging his mind as well.

GROOMING

The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat is very similar to human hair and should be treated accordingly. If the coat is kept long, it needs to be brushed daily.

To avoid eye irritation, the hair on the upper part of the head should be trimmed short or pulled up into a topknot. The Yorkie will need a bath every week or so.

Source: dogtime, akc.