Yorkshire Terrier

About the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier — "Yorkie" for short — is a tiny dog with an outsized personality. Behind the glamorous, silky coat is a true terrier: bold, brave, and bursting with energy. The breed was developed in 19th-century northern England, where working-class mill and mine workers bred small terriers to hunt rats in factories and mines. From those humble, scrappy origins the Yorkie rose to become a beloved companion and a symbol of Victorian luxury.

Don't let the size or the fashionable topknot fool you. Yorkies are feisty, confident, and endlessly devoted to their people. They form intense bonds, love being the center of attention, and often seem completely unaware of how small they actually are. That combination of courage, affection, and portability has kept them among the most popular toy breeds in the world.

Breed at a Glance

Coat Colors

The classic Yorkshire Terrier coat is a striking blue and tan — a steel-blue body with rich golden-tan on the head, chest, and legs. Puppies are born black and tan and gradually develop their signature blue coloring as they mature. The coat is fine, glossy, and hair-like rather than furry.

Temperament & Personality

Yorkies are affectionate, spirited, and full of terrier confidence. They adore their families and love a warm lap, but they also have a bold, adventurous streak and a surprisingly big bark. Alert and quick to sound off, they make excellent little watchdogs — though that same tendency means training them to curb barking is worthwhile.

• Affectionate and devoted — they bond closely and love being near their people.
• Bold, confident, and lively, with true terrier spirit.
• Alert and vocal — natural little watchdogs.
• Intelligent but sometimes stubborn; positive, consistent training works best.

Exercise & Enrichment Needs

Yorkies are small but energetic, and they need a daily outlet for their busy minds and bodies. The good news is that their size means much of it can happen indoors.

• Short daily walks — a couple of strolls satisfy their exercise needs and love of exploring.
• Indoor play & fetch — great for burning energy in a small space.
• Puzzle toys & training games — keep that clever terrier brain engaged.
• Supervised outdoor time — they're tiny and vulnerable to larger dogs and birds of prey.

Grooming & Care

That gorgeous coat is the Yorkie's signature — and its biggest commitment. Because the hair grows continuously and doesn't shed much, it needs regular care to stay healthy and tangle-free.

• Brush daily if kept in a long coat; many owners opt for a short "puppy cut" for easier upkeep.
• Bathe regularly to keep the fine coat clean and glossy.
• Tie back or trim the topknot so hair stays out of the eyes.
• Stay on top of dental care — small breeds are especially prone to dental disease.

Health Considerations

Yorkies are generally long-lived, but their tiny size brings a few specific health concerns. A responsible breeder and attentive care help keep them thriving.

• Dental disease — very common in toy breeds; regular brushing and cleanings are essential.
• Patellar luxation & Legg-Calvé-Perthes — knee and hip joint issues seen in small dogs.
• Collapsing trachea — use a harness instead of a collar to protect the windpipe.
• Hypoglycemia & portosystemic shunt — low blood sugar and a liver condition that can affect tiny puppies.

Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?

Yorkies are loving, portable, allergy-friendly companions with huge personalities — ideal for owners who'll commit to grooming and gentle care. There's a lot of dog in that little package.

A Yorkie may be perfect if you…

• Want an affectionate companion that fits apartment and city living.
• Can commit to regular grooming and dental care.
• Are home often and want a devoted little shadow.

Think twice if you…

• Have very young children who might handle a fragile dog too roughly.
• Want a quiet dog — Yorkies can be barky without training.
• Don't have time or budget for coat maintenance and small-breed dental care.