5 Types Of Yorkie Terriers To Consider Adopting

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are a popular choice for dog lovers worldwide. Their small stature, charming personalities, and playful nature make them ideal companions. But did you know there are actually several types of Yorkies? Understanding the different types can help you choose the perfect Yorkie for your lifestyle and preferences.

This comprehensive guide explores the five main types of Yorkies, highlighting their unique characteristics, temperaments, and grooming needs. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a first-time adopter, this information will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your furry friend.

Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Yorkie breeds, unraveling the intricacies of each type and discovering the perfect Yorkie for your loving embrace.

What are the Different Types of Yorkie Terriers?

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are known for their charming personalities and playful nature. But did you know there are different types of Yorkies, each with its unique characteristics? This guide will explore the five main types of Yorkies, highlighting their differences and similarities.

The most common type of Yorkie is the Standard Yorkie, which is the breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, variations exist, and they are often referred to as “types” or “varieties.” These include the Teacup Yorkie, Toy Yorkie, Miniature Yorkie, and the Parti Yorkie.

While these names often get thrown around interchangeably, understanding their nuances is important when choosing your Yorkie companion. The following sections dive into each type, exploring their appearance, temperament, and needs.

What is a Teacup Yorkie?

Teacup Yorkies are the smallest of the Yorkie varieties, weighing no more than 4 pounds when fully grown. They are often described as “pocket-sized” due to their tiny stature.

Teacup Yorkies are popular for their adorable appearance and cuddly nature. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, but they require extra care and attention.

Here are some key characteristics of Teacup Yorkies:

• Size: Less than 4 pounds
• Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and energetic
• Grooming: Requires regular brushing and bathing to maintain their long, silky coat
• Health: May be prone to health issues due to their small size, such as hypoglycemia and tracheal collapse

It’s important to note that Teacup Yorkies are not a recognized breed standard by the AKC. This means their size can vary and their health can be more fragile.

If you’re considering a Teacup Yorkie, it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

What is a Toy Yorkie?

Toy Yorkies are another popular type of Yorkie, slightly larger than Teacup Yorkies but still considered small dogs. They typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds.

Toy Yorkies are known for their playful personalities and their love of attention. They make great companions for families and individuals who enjoy a bit of canine entertainment.

Here are some key characteristics of Toy Yorkies:

• Size: 4-7 pounds
• Temperament: Energetic, playful, and affectionate
• Grooming: Requires regular brushing and bathing to maintain their long, silky coat
• Health: Generally healthy but may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia and luxating patellas

Toy Yorkies are recognized by the AKC, but they may not be suitable for all households. Their smaller size requires extra care and attention, and their playful nature can lead to accidents if not properly supervised.

If you’re considering a Toy Yorkie, it’s important to make sure you have the time and resources to provide them with the care they need.

What is a Miniature Yorkie?

Miniature Yorkies, also known as “Mini Yorkies,” fall somewhere between Toy Yorkies and Standard Yorkies. They typically weigh between 7 and 9 pounds.

Miniature Yorkies are known for their playful, affectionate personalities and their smaller size, making them a good option for those who want a Yorkie but prefer a slightly larger breed.

Here are some key characteristics of Miniature Yorkies:

• Size: 7-9 pounds
• Temperament: Energetic, playful, and affectionate
• Grooming: Requires regular brushing and bathing to maintain their long, silky coat
• Health: Generally healthy but may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia and luxating patellas

Miniature Yorkies are not a recognized breed standard by the AKC, but they are becoming increasingly popular due to their size and temperament.

If you’re considering a Miniature Yorkie, it’s essential to research breeders and ensure they are reputable and prioritize the health of their dogs.

What is a Parti Yorkie?

Parti Yorkies are a variety of Yorkies known for their unique color patterns. Unlike traditional Yorkies, which have a black and tan coat, Parti Yorkies have patches of white fur mixed with black and tan.

Parti Yorkies are becoming increasingly popular, as their distinctive color patterns add a touch of personality to their already charming appearance.

Here are some key characteristics of Parti Yorkies:

• Size: Varies depending on the type of Yorkie (Teacup, Toy, Miniature, or Standard)
• Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and energetic
• Grooming: Requires regular brushing and bathing to maintain their long, silky coat
• Health: Generally healthy, but they may be prone to some health issues common to Yorkies, such as hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)

It’s essential to note that Parti Yorkies are not a separate breed from Yorkies; they simply have a different color pattern. Their size, temperament, and health are similar to other Yorkie types.

If you’re considering a Parti Yorkie, it’s important to choose a breeder who understands and prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

What is a Standard Yorkie?

Standard Yorkies are the original and most common type of Yorkie, recognized by the AKC. They are typically larger than other Yorkie varieties, weighing between 4 and 7 pounds.

Standard Yorkies are known for their charming personalities, playful nature, and loyalty. They make great companions for families and individuals who enjoy a bit of canine entertainment.

Here are some key characteristics of Standard Yorkies:

• Size: 4-7 pounds
• Temperament: Energetic, playful, and affectionate
• Grooming: Requires regular brushing and bathing to maintain their long, silky coat
• Health: Generally healthy, but they may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)

Standard Yorkies are a popular breed for a reason. Their playful personalities and small size make them ideal for a variety of homes. However, it’s important to remember that they still require proper care and attention.

If you’re considering a Standard Yorkie, it’s crucial to research breeders and ensure they are reputable and prioritize the health of their dogs.

How Do You Know What Type of Yorkie You Have?

Identifying the specific type of Yorkie you have can be tricky. However, there are a few ways to help you narrow it down:

• Size: The most obvious way to distinguish between types of Yorkies is by their size. Teacup Yorkies are the smallest, followed by Toy Yorkies, Miniature Yorkies, and then Standard Yorkies.
• Weight: While size can be subjective, weight is a more reliable indicator. A veterinarian can provide an accurate weight measurement to help you determine the type of Yorkie you have.
• Breed Registry: If your Yorkie is registered with a breed registry, such as the AKC, the registration papers will indicate the type of Yorkie.
• Breeder: If you purchased your Yorkie from a breeder, they should be able to tell you the type of Yorkie they sold you.

It’s important to note that the exact type of Yorkie can be difficult to determine without a vet’s assessment or breed registry documentation. If you’re unsure about your Yorkie’s type, it’s best to consult a veterinarian or a professional breeder.

Knowing the type of Yorkie you have can help you understand its specific needs and provide them with the best care possible.

What is the Best Yorkie Type for Me?

The best Yorkie type for you will depend on your lifestyle and preferences.

If you’re looking for a small, cuddly companion, a Teacup Yorkie might be a good choice.

If you have a more active lifestyle and want a Yorkie who can keep up, a Standard Yorkie might be a better option.

Here is a table that summarizes the different Yorkie types and their characteristics:

Yorkie Type	Size	Temperament	Grooming	Health
Teacup Yorkie	Less than 4 pounds	Playful, affectionate, and energetic	Requires regular brushing and bathing	May be prone to health issues due to their small size, such as hypoglycemia and tracheal collapse
Toy Yorkie	4-7 pounds	Energetic, playful, and affectionate	Requires regular brushing and bathing	Generally healthy but may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia and luxating patellas
Miniature Yorkie	7-9 pounds	Energetic, playful, and affectionate	Requires regular brushing and bathing	Generally healthy but may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia and luxating patellas
Standard Yorkie	4-7 pounds	Energetic, playful, and affectionate	Requires regular brushing and bathing	Generally healthy, but they may be prone to some health issues common to small breeds, such as hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)
Parti Yorkie	Varies depending on the type of Yorkie (Teacup, Toy, Miniature, or Standard)	Playful, affectionate, and energetic	Requires regular brushing and bathing	Generally healthy, but they may be prone to some health issues common to Yorkies, such as hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right Yorkie type for you is to consider your lifestyle, preferences, and the amount of time and resources you’re willing to dedicate to caring for a dog.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie types:

Are Teacup Yorkies healthy?

Teacup Yorkies are not a recognized breed standard by the AKC. This means their size can vary and their health can be more fragile. Due to their extremely small size, Teacup Yorkies are prone to several health problems, including:

• Hypoglycemia
• Tracheal collapse
• Patellar luxation
• Dental problems
• Eye problems
• Heart problems

These health issues often require specialized care and can be costly to treat. Therefore, Teacup Yorkies require a higher level of care and attention.

How much do Yorkies cost?

The cost of a Yorkie can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Type of Yorkie: Teacup Yorkies and Parti Yorkies tend to be more expensive due to their rarity and higher demand.
• Breeder: Reputable breeders often charge higher prices because they prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.
• Location: The cost of living and the demand for Yorkies in a particular area can also affect the price.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000 for a Yorkie.

What is the best Yorkie for first-time dog owners?

For first-time dog owners, a Standard Yorkie is often a good choice. They are generally healthy and have a stable temperament.

However, regardless of the type, it’s essential to research and understand the specific needs of Yorkies before bringing one home.

Do Yorkies bark a lot?

Yorkies are known for their vocal nature and can bark frequently. However, with proper training and socialization, you can help reduce excessive barking.

It’s essential to train your Yorkie from a young age to understand the appropriate times to bark.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

Yorkies are prone to several health issues, some of which are common to small breeds:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially in Teacup Yorkies.
• Luxating Patellas: Kneecaps that slip out of place.
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca: Dry eye.
• Dental Problems: Small breeds are prone to dental issues.
• Allergies: Yorkies can be prone to allergies.

It’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs and provides appropriate care for their pups.

How do I choose a reputable Yorkie breeder?

Choosing a reputable Yorkie breeder is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of your new furry friend. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Health Testing: Reputable breeders will have their dogs tested for genetic health issues common to Yorkies, such as hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
• Socialization: Breeders should socialize their puppies from a young age to ensure they develop good temperament and social skills.
• Transparency: Reputable breeders will be transparent about their breeding practices, the health of their dogs, and any potential health concerns.
• Breeder References: Ask the breeder for references from previous buyers.

By researching and choosing a reputable breeder, you can significantly increase the chances of bringing home a healthy and happy Yorkie.