Yorkshire Terrier

Breed TypePurebred

OriginEngland

Intelligence

HypoallergenicYes

Popularity

TemperamentAffectionate, Energetic, Confident & Playful

About Yorkshire Terrier

Get introduced to the breed

The Yorkshire Terrier, originating from England, is a purebred dog known for its small size and big personality. Despite weighing only about 7 pounds, these dogs boast a bold and confident demeanor. Ranked 10 in popularity, they are beloved for their affectionate and energetic nature. Yorkies form strong bonds with their owners, often displaying traits of playfulness and intelligence, ranking them at 33 on the intelligence scale.

Their elegant, silky coats are hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their luxurious appearance. Their fearless attitude often leads them to act as if they are much larger than they actually are, showcasing a unique combination of charm and tenacity in their character.

Family Oriented

Great with families and children

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their energetic and playful nature, making them enjoyable companions for families. However, due to their small size and delicate frame, they might not be the best choice for very young children who may not understand how to handle them gently.They tend to enjoy playing fetch and can be affectionate cuddlers when in a relaxed environment. Supervision is advised when they are interacting with younger kids to ensure a safe and friendly environment for both the dogs and the children.

Play

Exercise and mental engagement

PlayfulnessThey enjoy interactive games like fetch and running.

EnergyShort bursts of exercise keep them healthy and happy.

ExplorationThey love exploring their surroundings and sniffing around.

CompanionshipThey thrive on companionship and enjoy spending time with their owners.

Accommodation

Ideal living conditions and requirements

Living Space:

Yorkshire Terriers are quite adaptable to apartment living due to their small size. However, they still need enough space to move around comfortably indoors.

Exercise:

They enjoy regular walks and playtime, and while they don't require a large yard, access to outdoor areas for mental and physical stimulation is beneficial.

Climate:

Yorkshire Terriers do well in moderate climates but require protection from extreme temperatures, especially the cold.

Grooming:

Regular grooming is needed to maintain their coat, including frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

Independence:

They can be left alone for a few hours but tend to thrive with companionship and regular interaction.

Diseases

Common health issues and care

BronchitisBronchitis in Yorkies is marked by inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Symptoms include persistent coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.Prevention: To prevent bronchitis, keep your Yorkie away from tobacco smoke, pollutants, and ensure regular vet check-ups for early detection.

Collapsed TracheaA collapsed trachea occurs when the cartilage rings in the trachea weaken. Symptoms include a dry cough, difficulty breathing, and bluish gums.Prevention: Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the neck. Maintain a healthy weight for your Yorkie to minimize stress on the trachea.

HypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is characterized by low blood sugar levels. Symptoms include lethargy, tremors, and seizures.Prevention: Feed small, frequent meals and monitor your dog's diet to ensure balanced nutrition. Keep a sugar source like honey handy in case of sudden drops in blood sugar.

Patellar LuxationPatellar luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. Symptoms include limping and difficulty in walking.Prevention: Maintain a healthy weight to minimize stress on your Yorkie's joints. Regular veterinary check-ups can help early detection and management.