Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” became the second most popular purebred dog in 2006, according to AKC registrations. It’s the first time in several decades that a small dog has been so high on the list.

Personality

• Intelligent, independent and active
• Confident, vigorous, tenacious and bold
• Can be aggressive to strange dogs and small animals
• Excellent watchdog
• Loving, but demands affection

Size

• 3-7 pounds
• 6-9 inches at the withers (shoulders)

Home Life

• Does well with older, careful children
• Well suited to apartment living
• Suited to warmer climates; sensitive to the cold due to their small size
• Not suited to living with other small animals (such as hamsters, rats, mice, etc.)

Training

• Intelligent little dogs that excel at training
• Capable of learning numerous words and commands
• May become willful, so training needs to be consistent and firm
• Can be difficult to housebreak

Exercise

• Yorkies are very active, so don’t require a lot of extra exercise
• Regular short runs and play should not be ignored because of their size and natural energy

Coat

• Long and straight
• Glossy, fine and silky
• Daily grooming is needed
• No undercoat, so they do not shed
• Tan hair on head, chest and legs; steel-blue on body and tail
• Topknot usually tied back to keep hair out of eyes

Health

• Can be prone to bronchitis
• Delicate digestive system and poor tolerance to anesthesia
• Prone to early tooth decay and patella luxation

Lifespan

• 12-15 years

Rescue

• To find a Yorkie in need of adoption in your state, visit Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue, Inc.

PHOTO: Alexandrab