Origins of the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier originated in the north of England. The dog breed was created and developed by working men for catching rats and mice, which diseased mine shafts and clothing mills. The Yorkshire Terrier as a breed is not very old, however its exact origins are uncertain. The most likely theory indicates that Scotsmen seeking work in the woollen mills of Yorkshire brought different types of terriers, which were then crossed with local types. The Yorkshire Terrier was initially much larger in size than we see today as it was gradually shrunk in size over the years. The Yorkshire Terrier has today become a fashion dog, as we see many women carrying the dog around under their arm or in their handbags.

Sizes of Typical Male and Female Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small sized dog. An adult Yorkshire Terrier typically weighs up to 3.2kg. The height could differ from 18cm to 22cm. The male and female Yorkshire Terriers generally tend to be similar in the size.

Yorkshire Terrier Coats

The Yorkshire Terrier could either have long or shaggy coats, which would require regular grooming. A topknot is usually tied on top of the dog’s head with a bow, to keep the hair away from his eyes. A full coat requires hours of combing, whereas if clipped, it would only require a few minutes of combing daily. This is the reason why most owners prefer to clip the dog’s hair and let him have a shaggy look.

Appearance of the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier could come in dark steel-blue, brown or white coloured with a golden tan coloured head. The breed has erect ears and a black nose. Yorkshire Terrier puppies start out completely black with a few tan patches, gradually fading to the clear blue colour and extending the tan areas. The colour change process of the Yorkshire Terrier can take up to 3 years.

Yorkshire Terrier Temperament

The Yorkshire Terrier has unique temperaments, Energetic, brave, loyal and clever. The breed is a wonderful companion and very affectionate to the master. The Yorkshire Terrier can become weary of and aggressive towards other humans as well as towards other dogs and small animals. The dogs can also convert to being yappy dogs as they love to tell you what they want. Any Yorkshire Terrier owner should know that just because the dog is small and fluffy, it is not wise to allow this breed to get away with inappropriate behaviour.

Yorkshire Terrier Puppies

Most good Yorkshire Terrier breeders will not let the puppies leave their mothers until at least they are 13 weeks old. Always ensure you acquire your Yorkshire Terrier puppy from a kc registered breeder.

Life Expectancy of a Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers typically live for 12 to 16 years.

Cost of a Yorkshire Terrier Puppy

From a reputable breeder, Yorkshire Terrier puppies normally cost around £350 to £500 in the UK.

What Health Problems Can Yorkshire’s Terrier Suffer From

The Yorkshire Terrier is generally a healthy dog breed. However they could potentially suffer from certain health issues, including; elbow and kneecap dislocation, heart problems, malformation of the spinal vertebrae, Legg-perthes disease, cataracts and epilepsy.

Exercising Your Yorkshire Terrier

Despite its small size, the Yorkshire Terrier is a very active little dog and should be walked daily. The Yorkshire Terrier can burn off a lot of energy from playing around in the back garden. This will not however satisfy his primal instinct to walk. Always make him heel beside you during walks, as the dog needs to know who the leader is at all times.

Dog Groups related to Yorkshire Terrier

Toy Group

Similar Dog Breed(s) to the Yorkshire Terrier

Cairn Terrier, Shih Tzu, West Highland White Terrier