12 Ways Yorkies Show They’re Your Best Friend

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are renowned for their charming personalities and unwavering loyalty. These tiny dogs pack a big punch when it comes to love and affection, making them cherished companions to countless people around the world. If you’re a proud Yorkie owner, you’ll know that these little bundles of energy bring a unique blend of joy, mischief, and unconditional love into your life. But sometimes, it’s the little things that truly show how much your Yorkie loves you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 heartwarming ways Yorkies express their affection, helping you deepen your bond with your furry friend.

How do Yorkies show love?

Yorkies are known for their big personalities and even bigger hearts. While their small stature might make you think they’re delicate, their love and affection are anything but. Yorkies have a unique way of expressing their love, and once you understand their language, you’ll be amazed by their depth of emotion.

Here are some of the ways Yorkies show love:

• Tail Wagging: A wagging tail is a universal sign of happiness in dogs, and Yorkies are no exception. When your Yorkie wags his tail excitedly, it means he’s thrilled to see you and is full of joy.
• Licking: This is a sign of affection and grooming in dogs. When your Yorkie licks your face, hands, or even your feet, it’s his way of saying, “I love you.”
• Snuggling: Yorkies love to cuddle and be close to their loved ones. When your Yorkie snuggles up to you on the couch or in bed, it’s a clear sign that he feels safe and secure in your presence.
• Playing: Yorkies are playful dogs who love to interact with their owners. Whether it’s chasing a toy or playing fetch, their playful antics are a way of bonding and showing their love.
• Following You: Yorkies are highly loyal and often follow their owners around the house. They might not always be physically close, but their constant presence is a sign of their unwavering devotion.
• Giving Gifts: While it might seem silly, some Yorkies will bring their owners “gifts.” This could be a toy, a chewed-up stick, or even a dead insect! It’s their way of showing that they care.
• Protective Instincts: Yorkies are protective of their owners and will often bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat. This is a sign of their loyalty and love.

Yorkies are truly remarkable dogs. Their love and devotion are a gift to their owners, making them cherished companions for life.

Why does my Yorkie sleep so much?

Yorkies, with their petite stature and seemingly boundless energy, are known for their playful and affectionate nature. However, even the most spirited Yorkie needs its rest, and you might find yourself wondering why your furry friend spends so much time snoozing. Sleep is essential for dogs just as it is for humans, playing a vital role in their physical and mental wellbeing.

Here are some reasons why your Yorkie might be sleeping so much:

• Age: Puppies need significantly more sleep than adult dogs. As Yorkies grow, their sleep requirements gradually decrease.
• Breed: Yorkies are known for being active dogs, but they are also relatively small. This combination often leads to shorter bursts of energy followed by periods of rest.
• Exercise: Just like humans, Yorkies need regular exercise to stay healthy and energized. However, if your Yorkie isn’t getting enough physical activity, it might be more prone to sleeping.
• Diet: A balanced diet is crucial for a Yorkie’s overall health. If your Yorkie is eating too much or not getting the right nutrients, it could lead to fatigue and increased sleepiness.
• Health Conditions: If your Yorkie is sleeping more than usual, it’s essential to rule out any underlying health conditions. Diabetes, hypothyroidism, or even arthritis can cause fatigue and increased sleep.
• Boredom: Yorkies are intelligent dogs who need mental stimulation. If your Yorkie is bored, it might be sleeping more as a way to escape boredom.
• Temperature: Yorkies are sensitive to temperature changes. In hot weather, they might sleep more to conserve energy.

If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s sleeping habits, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any health issues. But, in most cases, a good diet, regular exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation will help keep your Yorkie happy and healthy.

What are the most common Yorkie health problems?

Like all dog breeds, Yorkies are susceptible to certain health conditions. While many Yorkies live long and healthy lives, it’s important to be aware of the potential health issues they may face.

Here are some of the most common health problems in Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: This condition, also known as low blood sugar, is a common problem in puppies and small dogs. Symptoms can include weakness, lethargy, tremors, and seizures.
• Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap (patella) dislocates or pops out of place. It can be caused by genetics or trauma and often leads to lameness.
• Portosystemic Shunt: This is a serious condition where blood bypasses the liver, leading to liver damage. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
• Dental Problems: Yorkies are prone to dental problems, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is essential.
• Eye Problems: Some Yorkies are predisposed to eye conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and cherry eye. Regular eye exams by a veterinarian are important.
• Allergies: Yorkies can develop allergies to various things, such as food, pollen, dust mites, and fleas. Symptoms can include skin problems, itching, and sneezing.

To ensure your Yorkie’s good health, regular veterinary checkups are essential. By being proactive about your Yorkie’s health care, you can help them live a long and fulfilling life.

How do I tell if my Yorkie is happy?

A happy Yorkie is a joy to be around, radiating warmth and bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. But how do you tell if your furry friend is truly content? Understanding the nuances of a Yorkie’s behavior can help you recognize the signs of happiness and deepen your bond with them.

Here are some signs that your Yorkie is happy:

• Wagging Tail: A happy Yorkie will wag its tail excitedly, often with a slight bounce in its step.
• Playful Behavior: Yorkies love to play, and their playful antics are a clear sign of happiness. They might chase toys, jump around, or even bark joyfully.
• Relaxed Body Language: A happy Yorkie will have a relaxed body posture, with ears perked up and tail wagging.
• Eye Contact: Yorkies often make eye contact with their owners when they are happy, giving a soft and loving look.
• Licking: While licking can be a sign of affection, it can also be a sign of happiness. Your Yorkie might lick your face, hands, or even your feet.
• Vocalizations: Yorkies are known for their distinctive barks and yaps. A happy Yorkie might bark playfully or make happy little noises.
• Social Engagement: A happy Yorkie will be eager to interact with other dogs and people. They might greet new people with a wagging tail and a playful bark.

By paying close attention to your Yorkie’s behavior, you can get a sense of their emotional state. A happy Yorkie is a joy to have in your life, and it’s rewarding to see their happiness.

What is the average lifespan of a Yorkie?

Yorkshire Terriers, with their charming personalities and unwavering loyalty, are cherished companions for countless people around the world. But how long can you expect to enjoy the company of your beloved Yorkie? The average lifespan of a Yorkie is a question that many owners ponder.

Here are some factors that can influence a Yorkie’s lifespan:

• Genetics: Just like humans, dogs have a genetic predisposition to certain health conditions. Some Yorkies might be more susceptible to diseases that can shorten their lifespan.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential for a Yorkie’s overall health and longevity. Providing your Yorkie with high-quality food can help them live a longer, healthier life.
• Exercise: Regular exercise is important for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing health problems. However, it’s essential to tailor exercise routines to a Yorkie’s age and health.
• Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations are essential for preventing diseases and detecting health issues early on.
• Environment: A safe and stimulating environment can contribute to a Yorkie’s overall well-being. Providing your Yorkie with a clean and comfortable living space and plenty of mental stimulation can help them live a longer, happier life.

While the average lifespan of a Yorkie is around 12 to 15 years, some Yorkies live even longer, with many reaching 16 or even 18 years of age. With proper care and attention, your Yorkie can enjoy a long and fulfilling life by your side.

How do I groom a Yorkie?

Yorkshire Terriers, with their luxurious silky coats, are known for their elegant appearance. But maintaining their iconic look requires a dedicated grooming routine. Grooming your Yorkie is an essential part of their overall health and well-being.

Here are some grooming tips for Yorkies:

• Bathing: Yorkies need to be bathed regularly, typically every 4 to 6 weeks. Use a shampoo and conditioner formulated for dogs, paying attention to the coat’s delicate nature.
• Brushing: Daily brushing is essential for preventing mats and tangles in a Yorkie’s long coat. Use a pin brush or a slicker brush, working from the roots to the ends of the hair.
• Hair Trimming: Regular trimming of the hair around the face, paws, and tail is important for maintaining a neat appearance and preventing mats.
• Nail Trimming: Nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Use a dog nail trimmer or a guillotine trimmer, being careful not to cut into the quick (the pink part of the nail).
• Ear Cleaning: Yorkie ears need to be cleaned regularly to prevent infections. Use a cotton ball and a dog ear cleaner, being gentle when cleaning.
• Teeth Brushing: Regular brushing is essential for preventing dental problems, such as periodontal disease and tooth decay. Use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, brushing at least 2 to 3 times a week.

If you are unsure about any aspect of grooming your Yorkie, it’s best to seek guidance from a professional groomer or veterinarian. With consistent grooming, your Yorkie will look and feel their best, radiating health and beauty.

Are Yorkies good family dogs?

Yorkies are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them a popular choice for families with children. Their small stature and playful antics make them ideal companions for kids, but like all dogs, they need to be trained and socialized properly to ensure a harmonious relationship with children.

Here are some reasons why Yorkies can be good family dogs:

• Affectionate: Yorkies are known for their unwavering love and devotion to their families. They crave attention and affection, making them great companions for children who love to cuddle and play.
• Playful: Yorkies have a playful nature and love to engage in games with their families. Their small size makes them perfect for playing indoors, and they are often eager to chase toys and participate in interactive games.
• Trainable: Yorkies are intelligent dogs who are generally easy to train. With patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn basic commands and tricks.
• Adaptable: Yorkies are adaptable dogs who can adjust to different lifestyles. They can thrive in both apartments and larger homes, as long as they receive adequate exercise and attention.
• Loyal: Yorkies are fiercely loyal to their families. They form strong bonds with their owners and children, and their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs.

However, it’s important to supervise interactions between Yorkies and children. Yorkies can be delicate, and young children might not always understand the importance of gentle handling. Teaching children proper dog handling techniques and reinforcing positive interactions with the Yorkie can help ensure a safe and harmonious relationship.

Why does my Yorkie bark so much?

Yorkies, with their big personalities and even bigger hearts, are known for their distinctive barks and yaps. While their voices might be small, they can be surprisingly loud and persistent. If you find yourself wondering why your Yorkie barks so much, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind their vocalizations.

Here are some reasons why Yorkies might bark excessively:

• Alertness: Yorkies are natural watchdogs and are highly alert to their surroundings. They might bark at strangers, unfamiliar noises, or any perceived threat.
• Attention-Seeking: Yorkies, like many dogs, might bark to get attention from their owners. If they feel neglected or bored, they might bark to try and get your attention.
• Excitement: Yorkies can be excitable dogs, and their barking might be a sign of excitement or anticipation. They might bark when they see their owners, when they are about to go for a walk, or when they get a new toy.
• Fear or Anxiety: Some Yorkies might bark out of fear or anxiety. They might bark when they are scared of loud noises, strangers, or other dogs.
• Boredom: Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation. If a Yorkie is bored, it might bark to try and relieve its boredom.
• Territoriality: Yorkies can be territorial and might bark to protect their territory, especially if they feel threatened by other dogs or strangers.
• Medical Conditions: In some cases, excessive barking can be a sign of a medical condition, such as cognitive decline or pain.

If your Yorkie’s barking is excessive or disruptive, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or a dog behaviorist to determine the underlying cause and develop a management plan.

How much exercise does a Yorkie need?

Yorkies, despite their small stature, are energetic and playful dogs who need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. While they may not require the same amount of exercise as larger breeds, they still need opportunities to burn off energy and maintain their physical and mental well-being.

Here’s a breakdown of exercise needs for Yorkies:

• Puppies: Yorkie puppies need shorter exercise sessions, typically 15 to 20 minutes, several times a day. It’s important to avoid overexertion, as their bones and joints are still developing.
• Adult Dogs: Adult Yorkies need around 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. This can be broken up into two or three shorter sessions.
• Senior Dogs: As Yorkies age, their exercise needs decrease. They might still enjoy short walks or playtime, but it’s important to adjust exercise routines to their physical capabilities.

Here are some exercise ideas for Yorkies:

• Walking: Leash walks are a great way for Yorkies to get exercise and explore their surroundings.
• Playing Fetch: Yorkies love to play fetch, and it’s a great way for them to burn off energy.
• Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys and other interactive toys can provide mental stimulation and exercise for Yorkies.
• Indoor Play: Even on rainy days, you can provide your Yorkie with indoor playtime using toys and games.

By providing your Yorkie with regular exercise, you can help them stay healthy, happy, and well-behaved.

What are some tips for training a Yorkie?

Training a Yorkie can be both rewarding and challenging. These intelligent dogs are eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and easily distracted. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency, you can teach your Yorkie basic commands and tricks.

Here are some tips for training a Yorkie:

• Start Early: It’s never too early to start training a Yorkie. Puppies are more receptive to training, and early training can help establish good habits from a young age.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement methods, such as praising, petting, and giving treats, are highly effective for training Yorkies. Avoid punishment, as it can lead to fear and anxiety.
• Keep Training Sessions Short: Yorkies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions short and engaging. Aim for sessions of 5 to 10 minutes several times a day.
• Be Consistent: Consistency is key to successful training. Use the same commands and reward system every time.
• Use High-Value Treats: Yorkies love to eat, so using high-value treats as rewards can be highly effective. Find treats that your Yorkie finds particularly appealing.
• Socialization: Socializing your Yorkie from a young age is crucial for their well-being and trainability. Expose them to different people, dogs, and environments to help them become confident and well-adjusted.
• Enroll in Obedience Classes: Obedience classes can be a great way to enhance your Yorkie’s training and learn new skills. Classes also provide socialization opportunities.

With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach your Yorkie valuable commands and tricks, strengthening your bond and making them a well-behaved companion.

Summary Table

Question	Answer
How do Yorkies show love?	Tail wagging, licking, snuggling, playing, following you, giving gifts, protective instincts.
Why does my Yorkie sleep so much?	Age, breed, exercise, diet, health conditions, boredom, temperature.
What are the most common Yorkie health problems?	Hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, dental problems, eye problems, allergies.
How do I tell if my Yorkie is happy?	Wagging tail, playful behavior, relaxed body language, eye contact, licking, vocalizations, social engagement.
What is the average lifespan of a Yorkie?	12 to 15 years, but some can live longer with proper care.
How do I groom a Yorkie?	Bathing, brushing, hair trimming, nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing.
Are Yorkies good family dogs?	Yes, they are affectionate, playful, trainable, adaptable, and loyal.
Why does my Yorkie bark so much?	Alertness, attention-seeking, excitement, fear or anxiety, boredom, territoriality, medical conditions.
How much exercise does a Yorkie need?	Puppies: 15-20 minutes several times a day; Adults: 30 minutes to an hour; Seniors: adjusted based on physical capabilities.
What are some tips for training a Yorkie?	Start early, use positive reinforcement, keep training sessions short, be consistent, use high-value treats, socialization, enroll in obedience classes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Yorkies be left alone for long periods?

While Yorkies are adaptable and can adjust to different lifestyles, it is not recommended to leave them alone for extended periods. Yorkies are social dogs who crave companionship and can become anxious or destructive when left alone for too long. Aim for shorter periods of separation, and consider using a dog walker or pet sitter for longer periods.

Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?

Yorkies are not hypoallergenic. While their hair is considered to shed less than other breeds, it is not completely hypoallergenic. Their saliva and dander can still trigger allergies in some people. If you have allergies, it is best to spend time with a Yorkie before committing to owning one.

Can Yorkies be trained to use a potty pad?

Yes, Yorkies can be trained to use potty pads. It is important to start potty training early and use positive reinforcement methods. Choose a designated area for the potty pad and keep it clean. With patience and consistency, you can help your Yorkie learn to use the potty pad.

How do I choose a Yorkie breeder?

Choosing a reputable Yorkie breeder is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of your puppy. Research breeders thoroughly, look for those who are involved in health testing and screening for common Yorkie health problems. Visit the breeder’s facility and observe the puppies’ environment and temperament.

Are Yorkies good for first-time dog owners?

Yorkies can be good for first-time dog owners, especially those who are willing to put in the time and effort for training and socialization. Their smaller size and generally agreeable personalities make them manageable for new dog owners, but it’s important to remember that every dog is an individual and some might be more demanding or challenging.

Can Yorkies be aggressive?

Yorkies are not typically aggressive, but like all dogs, they can become aggressive if they are not properly trained and socialized. Early socialization and training are crucial for preventing aggression in Yorkies. It’s also important to address any underlying health conditions that might contribute to aggression.

How do I prevent my Yorkie from chewing on furniture?

Chewing is a common behavior in dogs, and Yorkies are no exception. To prevent chewing on furniture, provide your Yorkie with plenty of chew toys and redirect their chewing behavior to appropriate items. You can also use deterrents, such as bitter apple spray, to discourage chewing.