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The Yorkshire Terrier is
a small breed of dog that is generally active and
can be fun to be around. The Yorkie can be a
wonderful family pet that is good with older
children. This breed is fine for apartment living
and will need only occasional exercise. Its long
silky coat makes it a favorite for show. To help you
understand this particular breed, we have gathered
ten common questions that may arise when you
consider a Yorkie. We have provided answers to each.
1. What is the history of the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Yorkie has a relatively short history of about
100 years. Its origins are not completely clear, but
the breed may have been developed to catch the rats
and other vermin that infested homes, mineshafts,
and other places in the north of England. The
original Yorkie was larger than today’s toy dog,
reduced in size over the years. Yorkshire Terriers
have been show dogs since about 1870.
2. What health problems should I be aware of with
the Yorkie?
Tooth problems and dental problems seem to be one
condition to which the Yorkie is prone. Particular
attention should be given to keeping the teeth clean
and to avoiding bacterial infection in the mouth. A
Yorkie’s bones can be a bit fragile, so care should
be taken not to play too roughly with this dog.
3. How big do
Yorkshire Terriers get?
This is a toy breed, standing only about six or
seven inches at the withers. Most Yorkies grow only
until they weigh about seven pounds. In fact, the
American Kennel Club considers a Yorkshire Terrier
over seven pounds to be unsuitable for show.
4. How can I housebreak my Yorkie?
This breed can be difficult to housetrain. Firm and
consistent methods are absolutely, necessary.
Patience will be required. You may want to try crate
training, but even this process will take time. You
should give the new puppy time to develop habits
that fit with your lifestyle. Crate training may
help with this.
5. How do I take care of the long, silky coat?
This is one of the very important areas in Yorkie
ownership. The long coat will need regular attention
to avoid matting and tangles. Brushing on a regular
basis is necessary. Trimming of the hair on the head
is probably a good idea, if for no other reason than
to keep the hair out of the dog’s bowl when it eats.
If you want to show your Yorkie, it may be best to
begin with a breeder who specializes in show dogs.
6. What color is a Yorkshire Terrier?
This can sometimes be confusing to new owners. A
Yorkie puppy is generally black and tan. However, as
the dog grows, the dark areas of the coat become a
beautiful steel blue, while the tan remains
distinctly separated from the darker parts. Show
dogs of this breed should have very distinct colors,
especially the steel blue. Silver-blue and black in
adult Yorkies are considered faults.
7. Is the Yorkshire Terrier a difficult dog to
live with because of its temperament?
Actually, this is another area of some confusion
with the breed. The Yorkie can be a bit stubborn and
willful at times, though this may depend on the
individual dog, as well as the way it was bred and
raised. Yorkies are energetic and quite friendly in
most situations. They can be a joy to be around when
properly raised and cared for. Most will enjoy play
time and walking with the owner.
8. They look tiny and fragile, are they?
The Yorkie is a toy dog and some people are
surprised at how small this dog really is. They are
courageous and lively, but the dog’s bone structure
can be fragile. Rough play is not recommended for
the Yorkie. In general, however, this breed is
healthy breed, living as long as 15 years.
9. How should I start to look for a Yorkshire
Terrier?
As with all purebred dogs, it is best to read as
much as you can about the breed you are interested
in. Then locate and visit at least three top
breeders. Be prepared to ask a lot of questions and
look closely at the living conditions for the dogs.
Ask about guarantees for replacement and ask about
genetic health problems with the Yorkie.
10. I live in an apartment. Will the Yorkshire
Terrier be okay with this?
Yes, the Yorkie should do well in an apartment. They
will not need a lot of exercise, though you may want
to take your pet for short walks on a light leash
occasionally. This is an active, energetic breed, so
inside play is a good idea.
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