What is a Yorkshire Terrier?

The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie for short, is a small, long-coated breed of dog. Its name comes from the breed's beginnings in the Yorkshire area of Northern England in 1861. Yorkshire Terriers were developed from breeds such as the Skye Terrier and the Maltese to kill rats and mice. The Yorkshire Terrier was first registered by the British Kennel Club in 1874 and then by the American Kennel Club in 1878.

Most Yorkshire Terriers today weigh less than 7 pounds (3.175 kg), but the earliest Yorkies were larger and weighed up to 30 pounds (13.618 kg). The dog's coat is long and parted down the middle of the spine. The mid section is a steel blue-gray color that is often quite dark, while the face, ears and throat areas are tan in color.

Since the Yorkie has no undercoat and sheds very little, it may be a good choice for those with milder allergies. Yorkies do need daily brushing and combing to keep their long coats tangle-free and looking good. For easier care, the coat can be cut to a shorter length.

The Yorkshire Terrier is prone to health conditions such as bronchitis, cataracts and hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver. Yorkies are said to sometimes be picky eaters and may have a sensitive digestive system. Yorkies are also susceptible to distichiasis, which is a growth on the eyelid that irritates the eye and creates tearing and redness.

Yorkies are thought to be intelligent and curious dogs that are quick and active. The poorly socialized Yorkshire Terriers may be timid towards strangers. Well-socialized Yorkies, however, are often quite outgoing and assertive. The dog is not usually considered a good choice for families with young children since this breed is a bit delicate due to its small size. Yorkies can make good apartment dogs as their exercise needs are quite low.

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, originated in the 19th century in the county of Yorkshire, England. They were bred by working-class people to catch rats in textile mills and mines. Their ancestry includes the Clydesdale Terrier and the now-extinct Black and Tan Terrier, contributing to their small size and tenacious personality.

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their compact size, typically weighing around 7 pounds, and their long, silky coat that is steel blue and tan in color. They are a toy breed with a bold, confident, and intelligent demeanor. Despite their small stature, they carry themselves with an air of importance and are known for being affectionate with their owners.

Yorkshire Terriers require regular grooming due to their fine, silky coats. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain the traditional Yorkie haircut. Additionally, regular baths, nail trims, and dental care are essential to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Yorkshire Terriers can be good with children and other pets if socialized properly from a young age. However, due to their small size, they are better suited for families with older children who understand how to handle them gently. Yorkies can coexist with other pets but may exhibit a feisty or territorial demeanor towards larger animals.

Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, due to their small mouths, and patellar luxation, a condition affecting the knee joint. They may also face issues like hypoglycemia, especially in puppies, and tracheal collapse, which can cause a honking cough. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of these conditions.

Yorkshire Terriers have a relatively long lifespan for dogs, with many living between 12 to 15 years. Some Yorkies can even surpass this range, living up to 20 years with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups. Their longevity is one of the many reasons they are cherished as companion animals.