Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
13–16 years
Weight
3–4 kg
Height
17–23 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Blue and Tan · Black and Gold · Black and Tan
Yorkshire Terrier
About This Breed
The Yorkshire Terrier, also called the 'Yorkie', is a small terrier breed of dog developed during the 19th century in Yorkshire, England. Ideally its maximum size is 3.2 kg (7 lb). A popular companion dog, the Yorkshire Terrier has also been part of the development of other breeds, such as the Silky Terrier. Despite its small size, Yorkies have a big personality. They are bold, intelligent dogs that are fearless for their size. They make excellent watchdogs and devoted companions.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Yorkshire Terrier
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Toy |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 3–4 kg |
| Lifespan | 13–16 years |
| Height | 17–23 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Blue and Tan · Black and Gold · Black and Tan |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Bold · Confident · Intelligent · Courageous · Lively |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.
Usually sheds relatively little. Low shedding does not mean an animal cannot cause allergies.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Teach children to handle it gently and leave it alone when it rests.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The tiny Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is a spunky and often entertaining companion. Before the breed’s current role as a popular lapdog, Yorkies were thought to chase rodents in textile mills for Scottish weavers who migrated to England in the mid-1800s, according to the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America. A full-grown Yorkie stands all of 7–8 inches tall and weighs up to 7 pounds, but their energetic and feisty personality does not reflect their small stature. Perhaps the most notable physical characteristic is the Yorkie’s long, straight blue and tan hair that’s often trimmed short into a fashionable haircut.
Care Guide
Yorkshire Terriers are affectionate, playful, and sometimes bossy little dogs that have a lot of energy and need to be mentally stimulated.