Meet the Breed: Yorkshire terrier

May 14, 2012 11:00 AM by Virginia Chavez

Posted in Pets & Animals / Dogs

This irresistibly cute companion ranks high on the most popular breeds list. How did a dog bred to hunt rats make its way to royal laps? With a sweet demeanor and pint-sized stature, it’s hard not to love the Yorkshire terrier.

Everything you need to know about the breed

Yorkie owners must confess, these tiny companions are excellent at playing dress-up and have become commonly recognized for their exceptional fashion sense. It may be hard to believe but Yorkies are much more than just a pretty face. Here, find out everything you need to know about the breed.

Characteristics

Weighing in at an average of 5 to 7 pounds, Yorkies make first-rate travel companions, as they can fit in most purses or carriers. This tiny breed is very attentive to their human counterparts, and constant companionship is a must. Intelligent and headstrong, Yorkies are great at following commands and demand their much-needed attention. Though they don't require much exercise, they can be scrappy and fearless, picking fights with much larger dogs.

Grooming

Don’t be overwhelmed by the long locks of AKC-bred Yorkies. Regardless of hair length, this breed simply needs a weekly brushing to keep up its looks. While their beauty regimen might be low-maintenance, Yorkies love being pampered by their humans, and endless grooming is always welcomed. Unlike other dogs, Yorkies boast luscious human-like hair that stays dander-free, which puts them in the small category of hypo-allergenic breeds.

Training

Tiny in brawn, but big in brains, this breed is eager to learn. Yorkies are great listeners with a high regard for their masters. Because they were bred as working dogs, Yorkies love a challenge and mental stimulation. This intelligent breed can pick up training techniques faster than most pooches and enjoys the special attention and bonding time of training sessions. This compact breed can be outspoken and is known to bark but their clever nature makes barking an easily trainable matter.

Health

On average, this vigorous breed suffers from minor health concerns including tooth decay and gum disease, making regular tooth brushing and dental checkups a must. As with most small breeds, breathing problems can be of concern. Because Yorkies can suffer from tracheal collapse, using a harness instead of a collar is recommended. These tiny companions require minimal exercise but regular interaction with their human counterparts is a must.

Best fit for:

Yorkie’s make excellent companions for pet owners looking for a shed-free and allergen-free addition to their family. Yorkies’ compact size make them perfect apartment dogs as long as exercise is part of their daily routine. This breed is sensitive to extreme temperatures, and leaving them outside unattended can cause severe health issues. Due to their independent and stubborn nature, this toy breed may not do well with small children, as most Yorkies enjoy personalized attention.