The Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier (aka 'Yorkie') is a fun and feisty little dog who is consistently among the most popular dogs in the USA.

With all the energy and spunk of his terrier ancestry plus intelligence, courage and a huge (and very loving) heart, these little guys - and gals - make wonderful pets and are very adaptable.

They're a perfect fit for that old saying 'good things come in small packages'.

This breed takes it's name from the north-central County of Yorkshire in England, where it was originally bred to hunt and kill rats and other vermin in the mines, mills and factories during the British Industrial Revolution.

This is where the energy, tenacity and courage come from! Although this is a perky, active little dog, adult Yorkshire Terriers can be almost regal-looking when their hair is left long and well-groomed.

The adult coat is long, fine and silky. But unless your Yorkie is destined for the show ring - or you're happy to do a lot of grooming - it's much easier to keep his/her hair trimmed to a manageable length.

The 'puppy cut' is easy to care for and very cute to look at (so called because it resembles the natural 'puppy' appearance of the coat). It also embodies this hardy little breed's true personality :)

Yorkshire Terrier Stats

Country of Origin: Great Britain

Size: Small

Height: 7 - 9 inches

Weight: 3 - 7 lbs

Color: Steel blue from top of head to base of tail, rich tan on face, legs and chest. Yorkie puppies are born black and tan and their color gradually changes to the steel blue and tan as they mature.

Temperament: Perky and courageous. Outgoing, intelligent and confident, with tons of personality.

Activity Level: Moderate

Grooming: Moderate to high. Daily brushing and professional grooming every 4 - 6 weeks, or keep coat clipped short in a 'puppy cut'.

Special Needs: Grooming, socialilzation and regular obedience training, luxating patellas.

More About The Yorkshire Terrier Breed

Although the Yorkie was originally a working breed, he quickly gained popularity as a companion and family pet.

During the Victorian era these little dogs were often part of the family, and favored by upper-class society. Luckily, this meant that the breed continued to flourish even as the need for his 'ratting' skills disappeared!

Because of his feisty, independent personality the Yorkie needs early and ongoing training and socialization so that he learns to listen to, and obey, commands and to get along with other dogs, pets and people. He can tend to be a tad 'bossy' and self-opinionated, so this is important.

Although this breed is pretty sturdy and active, their diminutive size means that their exercise needs are not excessive and regular daily walks and games is enough to keep them happy and healthy.

These dogs love to be part of the family, are friendly and bright, and being so small they are extremely portable, making them great companions for most families, environments and lifestyles.

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