Yorkshire Terrier

Don’t let the tiny frame fool you — the Yorkshire Terrier packs more personality per ounce than almost any dog alive. Yorkies have held a spot among the AKC’s top 10 most popular breeds for years, and behind those silky coats and dainty appearances beats the heart of a true terrier: bold, confident, and utterly convinced they’re the biggest dog in the room. If you’re bringing home your first Yorkie, our first week with your new puppy guide is essential reading for setting both of you up for success.

But Yorkies are not just fashion accessories or purse dogs. They have specific care needs — particularly around grooming and dental health — that catch many first-time owners off guard. This guide covers everything you need to know about living with and caring for a Yorkshire Terrier, from their surprising working-class origins to the health concerns every Yorkie owner should watch for.

History and Origins

The Yorkshire Terrier’s origins are far grittier than the breed’s glamorous modern image suggests. Yorkies were developed in northern England during the mid-19th century, primarily by Scottish weavers who had migrated to the Yorkshire region during the Industrial Revolution. These workers needed small, fearless dogs to hunt rats in textile mills and coal mines — and the little terriers they bred were remarkably effective at the job.

The breed was created by crossing several small terrier breeds, likely including the Clydesdale Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Skye Terrier, and Waterside Terrier. Some historians believe the Maltese may have also contributed to the Yorkie’s silky coat texture. The result was a compact, tenacious ratter with a beautiful blue-and-tan coat that quickly caught the attention of English high society.

By the late 1800s, the Yorkshire Terrier had transitioned from a working-class ratter to a fashionable companion of Victorian ladies. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1885 and has been a beloved companion breed ever since. Today, Yorkies consistently rank among the top 10 most popular breeds in the United States, valued for their portability, personality, and hypoallergenic qualities.

Despite their transformation into companion dogs, Yorkies retain the terrier instincts that made them effective ratters. That boldness, prey drive, and independent streak are features, not bugs — and understanding this terrier heritage is key to understanding your Yorkie’s behavior.

Temperament and Personality

The Yorkshire Terrier’s temperament is a fascinating contradiction: they’re simultaneously a doting lap dog and a fierce little terrier. The AKC breed standard calls for a dog that is “spirited” with an “air of importance” — and most Yorkies deliver on both counts with enthusiasm.

What Makes Yorkies Special

Bold beyond their size. Yorkies have absolutely no concept of their own diminutive stature. They’ll bark at dogs ten times their size, investigate strange noises with confidence, and generally carry themselves as though they weigh 70 pounds instead of 7. This confidence is endearing, though it occasionally needs to be managed for their own safety.

Deeply affectionate. Behind the bravado, Yorkies are devoted companions who bond intensely with their owners. They want to be with you at all times — on your lap, under your blanket, in your bag, wherever you go. This makes them excellent companions for people who want a close, constant canine relationship.

Alert and watchdog-ready. Yorkies are excellent watchdogs. They’re alert to every sound and movement in their environment and will let you know when someone is at the door, when the mail arrives, or when a squirrel has the audacity to cross the yard. Their bark is surprisingly loud for their size.

Adaptable to small spaces. Yorkies are among the most apartment-friendly breeds. Their small size means they don’t need a yard to burn off energy, and they can get a meaningful workout from a brisk walk around the block or an energetic indoor play session.

Low-shedding coat. Yorkies have hair that grows continuously, similar to human hair, rather than fur that sheds in cycles. This makes them a popular choice for people with mild pet allergies, though no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic.

Potential Challenges

Barking. Yorkies are vocal dogs. Their terrier alertness means they bark at doorbells, strangers, other dogs, unusual sounds, and sometimes at nothing identifiable. Early training on a “quiet” command is essential, especially for apartment dwellers. A bored or under-stimulated Yorkie will be an especially noisy one.

Fragility. At 4-7 pounds, Yorkies are physically fragile. They can be seriously injured by falls, being stepped on, or rough play with children or larger dogs. This is not a breed for homes with toddlers or rowdy large dogs. Every Yorkie owner needs to be mindful of where their dog is at all times.

Housebreaking difficulty. Yorkies are notoriously challenging to house train. Their small bladders need frequent trips outside, and many Yorkies are reluctant to go outdoors in cold or wet weather. Consistency, patience, and indoor potty options (like pee pads as a backup) are often part of the process.

“Small dog syndrome.” Without proper training and boundaries, Yorkies can develop demanding, snappy, or anxious behaviors. Many owners inadvertently reinforce bad behavior by picking their Yorkie up at the first sign of trouble instead of allowing them to develop coping skills. Training your Yorkie like a real dog — not a baby — produces a much better-adjusted companion.

Care Needs

Exercise Requirements

Yorkshire Terriers have moderate exercise needs that are easily met for most owners:

• Daily exercise: 30-45 minutes, split into two or three short sessions
• Ideal activities: Short walks, indoor fetch, interactive play, puzzle toys, supervised exploration
• Activities to avoid: Long hikes, strenuous running, rough play with large dogs, off-leash time in unfenced areas (their prey drive can override recall)

Mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and nose work games keep a Yorkie’s active mind engaged. A bored Yorkie will find their own entertainment — usually in the form of barking, chewing, or getting into mischief.

Be mindful of weather extremes. Yorkies feel the cold quickly due to their small body mass and single-layer coat. In winter, a dog sweater or jacket is a practical necessity, not just a fashion statement. In summer heat, keep walks short and provide plenty of water.

Grooming Needs

Grooming is the single biggest care commitment for a Yorkshire Terrier. Their silky, continuously growing coat requires regular attention to stay healthy and tangle-free.

If keeping a full coat:

• Daily brushing is mandatory. Use a pin brush and fine-toothed comb to prevent mats and tangles.
• Bathing every 1-2 weeks with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
• The coat can grow to floor length, requiring wrapping or banding to prevent damage.

If keeping a shorter “puppy cut” (most pet owners):

• Brush 3-4 times per week with a slicker brush.
• Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to maintain the cut.
• Bathing every 2-3 weeks or as needed.

For all Yorkies:

• Dental care is critically important. Yorkies are extremely prone to dental disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Brush teeth at least 3-5 times per week, ideally daily. Professional dental cleanings as recommended by your vet are not optional — they’re a health necessity. Our dog dental care guide covers brushing technique and prevention strategies.
• Ear cleaning: Weekly, checking for redness or odor. See our dog grooming tips guide for detailed ear care instructions.
• Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks. Small breeds’ nails tend to grow quickly and can cause discomfort if neglected.
• Eye care: Yorkies’ prominent eyes are prone to irritation. Wipe gently with a damp cloth to remove discharge.

Nutrition

Yorkshire Terriers have specific nutritional needs related to their tiny size and fast metabolisms:

• Small-breed formula: Choose a high-quality food formulated for small or toy breeds. Small kibble size is essential — Yorkies can choke on large kibble. Our guide to choosing dog food walks you through ingredient labels and quality indicators.
• Frequent small meals: Yorkie puppies should eat 3-4 times daily to prevent hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar). Adults do well with 2-3 meals per day. Never let a Yorkie puppy go more than a few hours without eating.
• Calorie management: Despite their tiny size, Yorkies can become overweight. Even an extra half-pound on a 5-pound dog is significant. Measure portions carefully.
• Omega fatty acids: Important for maintaining the Yorkie’s signature silky coat and healthy skin.
• Dental-friendly options: Dental chews appropriate for toy breeds can supplement (but not replace) brushing.

Health Considerations

Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy dogs with a long lifespan, but the breed is predisposed to several conditions:

Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap slides out of its normal position, causing intermittent lameness. Common in toy breeds. Mild cases may need no treatment; severe cases require surgery.

Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt): A congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver, allowing toxins to build up in the bloodstream. Symptoms include poor growth, seizures, and behavioral changes. Diagnosed with blood tests and imaging; treatment may be surgical or medical.

Collapsed trachea: The cartilage rings of the windpipe weaken and flatten, causing a honking cough and breathing difficulty. This is why Yorkies should always wear a harness rather than a collar — any pressure on the throat can worsen this condition.

Dental disease: Perhaps the most universal Yorkie health issue. Their small mouths crowd adult teeth, creating pockets where bacteria thrive. Without diligent dental care, Yorkies can lose teeth at a young age.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Particularly dangerous in puppies and very small adults. Signs include lethargy, trembling, disorientation, and in severe cases, seizures. Keep Karo syrup or honey on hand as an emergency measure, and ensure your Yorkie eats regular meals.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: A condition where the blood supply to the head of the femur (thigh bone) is reduced, causing the bone to deteriorate. Typically appears in puppies between 5-8 months. Surgical treatment is usually necessary.

Work with your veterinarian to establish a preventive care plan that includes regular dental exams, blood work to screen for liver issues, and orthopedic evaluations.

Training Tips for Yorkshire Terriers

1. Start early and stay consistent. Yorkie puppies are adorable, and it’s tempting to let naughty behavior slide because they’re so small. Resist this urge. Train your Yorkie the same way you would train a larger dog — with clear expectations and consistent enforcement.

2. Use positive reinforcement. Yorkies are sensitive and will shut down or become defiant with harsh corrections. Small, high-value treats, praise, and play are your most effective training tools. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and upbeat.

3. Prioritize house training. Be prepared for this to take longer than with larger breeds. Take your Yorkie outside frequently (every 1-2 hours for puppies), reward outdoor elimination generously, and maintain a consistent schedule. Indoor pee pad training can work as a supplement, especially for inclement weather.

4. Socialize thoroughly. Expose your Yorkie puppy to different people, dogs, environments, and experiences between 8-16 weeks. Well-socialized Yorkies are confident and less prone to fear-based aggression. Carry your puppy to new environments before vaccinations are complete — exposure to sights and sounds still counts.

5. Teach a “quiet” command. Given the breed’s tendency to bark, teaching a reliable “quiet” cue is one of the most valuable things you can train. Reward moments of silence, and never yell at a barking Yorkie — they’ll interpret it as you joining in.

6. Prevent resource guarding. Small dogs often develop resource guarding because humans inadvertently teach them that their possessions will be taken away. Practice trading games and hand-feeding to build trust around food and toys.

Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?

Good Fit If:

• You live in an apartment or small home and want a compact companion
• You’re willing to commit to regular grooming (daily brushing or frequent professional grooming)
• You want a dog that bonds deeply and goes everywhere with you
• You have older children (age 8+) or an adults-only household
• You work from home or can bring your dog with you (Yorkies don’t do well alone for long stretches)
• You want a low-shedding dog for allergy considerations
• You’re prepared for diligent dental care throughout your dog’s life

May Not Be Right If:

• You have toddlers or very young children (risk of injury to the dog)
• You have large, rambunctious dogs at home (size mismatch is dangerous)
• You want a low-maintenance dog that doesn’t need regular grooming
• You prefer a quiet dog (Yorkies are barkers)
• You want a dog for off-leash hiking or vigorous outdoor activities
• You travel frequently and can’t bring your dog (separation anxiety is common)
• You don’t want to deal with potential house training challenges

You Might Also Like

• Poodle Breed Guide — Another intelligent, low-shedding breed with high grooming needs
• French Bulldog Breed Guide — A different small-breed apartment companion to compare
• Beagle Breed Guide — A small dog with a very different personality and energy style
• Dog Dental Care Guide — Essential reading for every Yorkie owner
• Best Dog Grooming Tips — Coat care, ear cleaning, and nail trimming techniques
• How to Choose Dog Food — Find the right small-breed formula for your Yorkie
• Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers — Durable toy options sized for small but determined chewers

Frequently Asked Questions