Yorkshire Terriers: Everything You Need to Know About Their Size, Temperament, and Care

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are a beloved breed known for their charming personalities and luxurious long coats. They are popular companions for people of all ages, but their small size and unique needs require some special considerations. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about Yorkshire Terriers, covering their size, temperament, care, and common questions. Whether you are a potential Yorkie owner or simply curious about this breed, this article will provide valuable insights and helpful information.

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How Big Do Yorkshire Terriers Get?

Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living and smaller homes. However, their small stature doesn’t mean they are fragile. Yorkies are surprisingly strong and energetic for their size.

While Yorkies are known for their small size, it’s important to remember that individual dogs can vary in size. Factors like genetics, diet, and exercise can all influence a Yorkie’s final size. On average, male Yorkies tend to be slightly larger than females. However, even the largest Yorkies are still relatively small, making them easy to manage and handle.

Yorkie puppies experience rapid growth in their first year of life. By the time they are six months old, they will have reached about 75% of their adult size. After this period, their growth slows down, and they gradually reach their full size by around 12 months old.

It’s important to note that Yorkies have a long lifespan, typically living between 12 and 15 years. This means that your Yorkie companion will be a part of your life for many years to come. Their small size and long lifespan make them a perfect choice for those who are looking for a loyal and loving companion that can fit into any lifestyle.

Here is a table that summarizes the typical size and weight of a Yorkshire Terrier:

Age	Weight (lbs)	Height (inches)
Adult (Male)	4-7	7-9
Adult (Female)	4-6	6-8
Puppy (6 months)	3-5	4-6

Are Yorkshire Terriers Good Family Dogs?

Yorkshire Terriers are often described as having a “big dog in a small body” personality. While they are affectionate and loving towards their families, they can also be protective and territorial. Their small size and energetic nature make them well-suited for families with children, but supervision is always recommended, especially with very young children. Yorkies are known for their playful and mischievous nature, which can lead to accidents if they are not properly supervised. Early socialization and training are essential for ensuring that your Yorkie is well-behaved and friendly around children.

Yorkies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. With consistent positive reinforcement, they can learn basic commands and tricks with ease. Training can help to establish boundaries, reduce unwanted behaviors, and strengthen the bond between you and your Yorkie.

Yorkies are also known for being affectionate and loyal companions. They thrive on attention and love to be included in family activities. However, they are also sensitive dogs and can be easily stressed by loud noises or unfamiliar situations. It is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Yorkie, especially if you have children or other pets.

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers can make wonderful family dogs if their needs are met. They are affectionate, playful, and relatively easy to train. However, it is important to consider their small size and potential for territorial behavior when introducing them to children and other pets.

What is the Temperament of a Yorkshire Terrier?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their feisty, independent, and sometimes sassy personalities. They are confident and outgoing dogs, often described as having a “big dog in a small body” attitude. While they can be friendly and affectionate with their families, they can also be protective and territorial, especially towards strangers. Their small size can sometimes lead to them being overlooked, but their strong personalities often make up for it.

Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent dogs, making them relatively easy to train. However, their independent nature can sometimes make them stubborn, and they require consistent training and positive reinforcement to learn commands and behaviors. Early socialization is crucial for ensuring that your Yorkie grows up to be well-adjusted and friendly towards other dogs and people.

Yorkies can be very vocal dogs and are not afraid to bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat. This can be a positive trait in terms of alerting you to potential dangers, but it can also be a nuisance if not addressed through training and socialization. It is important to teach your Yorkie appropriate barking behaviors and to provide them with outlets for their energy and mental stimulation.

While they are generally good with children, it is important to supervise interactions and teach children how to handle them properly. Yorkies can be easily injured due to their small size, and their protective nature can sometimes lead to them snapping or biting if they feel threatened.

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers are strong-willed and independent dogs with big personalities. Their affectionate nature and playful antics make them delightful companions, but their protective instincts and vocal tendencies require proper training and socialization to ensure they are well-behaved and happy.

What are Yorkshire Terriers Like to Train?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, their independent nature can sometimes make them stubborn, requiring consistent training and positive reinforcement. With patience and a firm but gentle approach, you can teach your Yorkie a wide range of commands and tricks.

Here are some tips for training a Yorkshire Terrier:

• Start early: Begin training your Yorkie puppy as soon as you bring them home. Early socialization and training are crucial for establishing good behavior and preventing problems later on.
• Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Yorkie with treats, praise, and petting when they perform a desired behavior. This will help them associate good behavior with positive outcomes.
• Be consistent: Train your Yorkie in short, regular sessions, and be consistent with your commands and expectations. This will help them learn and retain the information.
• Use patience and understanding: Yorkshire Terriers can be sensitive and easily frustrated, so be patient and understanding during training. Avoid yelling or using harsh punishments, as this can damage their confidence.
• Enroll in a puppy training class: A well-structured puppy training class can provide a fun and social environment for your Yorkie to learn basic commands and interact with other dogs. It can also help you develop your training skills and learn from experienced instructors.

Remember, training is an ongoing process. You can continue to teach your Yorkie new commands and tricks throughout their life. This will help them stay mentally stimulated and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Consistent training can also help to maintain a strong bond between you and your Yorkie.

It’s important to note that Yorkies can be easily distracted, especially when they are young. It is crucial to create a calm and controlled environment during training and to use short, focused sessions to avoid overwhelming them. If you have a stubborn or easily distracted Yorkie, seeking professional help from a certified dog trainer can be beneficial.

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and eager to please dogs, but their independent nature requires patience and consistency when it comes to training. With the right approach and consistent effort, you can teach your Yorkie a wide range of commands and behaviors, strengthening your bond and ensuring a well-behaved companion.

Are Yorkshire Terriers Easy to Groom?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their long, luxurious coats, which require regular grooming to maintain their beauty and health. Their silky hair grows continuously, and if not properly cared for, it can become tangled, matted, and prone to breakage.

Here is a breakdown of the grooming needs of a Yorkshire Terrier:

• Brushing: Yorkies should be brushed daily to prevent mats and tangles. Use a soft-bristled brush or a slicker brush, and be gentle, especially around the face and ears.
• Bathing: Yorkies should be bathed every 4-6 weeks, using a mild dog shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using human shampoo, as it can strip their coat of its natural oils.
• Haircuts: Yorkies need regular haircuts to maintain their coat length and style. You can choose to have your Yorkie professionally groomed or groom them yourself. If you choose to groom them yourself, you will need to invest in a good pair of dog clippers and learn the proper techniques.
• Nail Trimming: Yorkies’ nails should be trimmed every 2-4 weeks to prevent them from growing too long and causing discomfort. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder.
• Ear Cleaning: Yorkies’ ears should be cleaned regularly with a dog ear cleaner to prevent infections and buildup of wax.

Regular grooming is crucial for maintaining your Yorkie’s coat health, preventing matting, and ensuring they are comfortable. With consistent grooming, you can help your Yorkie stay clean, healthy, and looking their best.

If you are not comfortable with grooming your Yorkie yourself, it is recommended to find a professional groomer who has experience with this breed. A good groomer can provide expert advice on how to maintain your Yorkie’s coat and prevent matting.

While Yorkies require more grooming than some other breeds, their luxurious coats are a defining feature of their breed, and with proper care, they can look and feel their best.

What Are Some Common Health Problems in Yorkshire Terriers?

Yorkshire Terriers are a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health problems. Here are some of the most common health concerns associated with Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: This is a condition where the blood sugar level is abnormally low. It is often seen in puppies and can be caused by stress, fasting, or illness. Symptoms include weakness, lethargy, tremors, and seizures.
• Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates. It can cause lameness and pain in the affected leg.
• Dental Problems: Yorkies are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is essential.
• Eye Problems: Yorkies can be prone to eye problems such as dry eye, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• Allergies: Like many other breeds, Yorkies can be prone to allergies. Food allergies are common, but skin allergies are also possible.
• Tracheal Collapse: This is a condition where the trachea (windpipe) collapses, causing difficulty breathing. It is often seen in older Yorkies and can be caused by obesity, coughing, or chronic respiratory infections.
• Portosystemic Shunt: This is a condition where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxic buildup. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.

It’s important to note that these are just some of the most common health problems seen in Yorkshire Terriers. Other health conditions are possible, and it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for any concerns.

By providing your Yorkie with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventative care, you can help to minimize their risk of developing health problems. Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations are essential for ensuring their overall health and well-being.

It’s important to remember that early detection and treatment are key to managing any health issues that may arise. If you notice any unusual signs or symptoms in your Yorkie, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian right away.

What are Some of the Personality Traits of Yorkshire Terriers?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their bold, energetic, and often mischievous personalities. Their small size doesn’t stop them from having big attitudes and a lot of spunk. They are often described as having a “big dog in a small body” demeanor, making them both endearing and entertaining companions. Their playful nature and affectionate personalities make them great additions to any family.

Yorkies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They are quick learners and can be taught a wide range of commands and tricks. However, their independent nature can sometimes make them stubborn, requiring consistent training and positive reinforcement. They are also known for being very vocal and will bark at anything that they perceive as a threat.

Here are some key personality traits of Yorkshire Terriers:

• Affectionate: Yorkies are known for their loving and affectionate nature. They thrive on attention and love to be included in family activities. They are often described as being “velcro dogs” who want to be close to their owners at all times.
• Playful: Yorkies have a playful and mischievous nature. They love to chase toys, play fetch, and engage in interactive games. Their small size allows them to be energetic and active, making them fun companions for playtime.
• Protective: While Yorkies are generally friendly, they can be protective of their families and territory. They are not afraid to bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat. This can be a positive trait in terms of alerting you to potential dangers, but it can also be a nuisance if not addressed through training and socialization.
• Independent: Yorkies are relatively independent dogs, and while they enjoy companionship, they can also be content to entertain themselves. They are often described as being “one-person dogs” who develop a strong bond with one particular owner. However, with proper socialization, they can be affectionate towards other family members and visitors.
• Energetic: Despite their small size, Yorkies are energetic dogs who require regular exercise. They love to go for walks, play fetch, and engage in interactive games. It is important to provide them with sufficient mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
• Intelligent: Yorkies are intelligent dogs, making them relatively easy to train. They are quick learners and can be taught a wide range of commands and tricks. However, their independent nature can sometimes make them stubborn, requiring consistent training and positive reinforcement.
• Vocal: Yorkies are known for being very vocal dogs, and they are not afraid to bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat. This can be a positive trait in terms of alerting you to potential dangers, but it can also be a nuisance if not addressed through training and socialization.

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers are charming, affectionate, and playful companions. Their independent nature and energetic spirits make them both endearing and entertaining. While they require consistent training and socialization, they can be wonderful additions to any family.

What are Some Common Yorkshire Terrier Questions?

Yorkshire Terriers are a popular breed, and as such, there are many questions that people have about them. Here are some of the most common questions about Yorkshire Terriers:

• Are Yorkshire Terriers good for first-time dog owners? Yorkshire Terriers can be good for first-time dog owners, but their small size and strong personalities can sometimes make them challenging to handle. They require consistent training and socialization to prevent behavioral problems. It is important to be prepared for their grooming needs and potential health issues.
• How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need? Yorkshire Terriers are relatively active dogs and need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can include walks, playtime, and interactive games. It is important to provide them with sufficient mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
• What is the lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier? Yorkshire Terriers have a relatively long lifespan, typically living between 12 and 15 years. This means that your Yorkie companion will be a part of your life for many years to come.
• Do Yorkshire Terriers shed? While Yorkies have long coats, they don’t shed much. However, their hair does grow continuously, and it requires regular brushing and haircuts to prevent tangles and mats.
• Are Yorkshire Terriers hypoallergenic? No, Yorkshire Terriers are not hypoallergenic. They do produce allergens, and people with severe allergies should avoid this breed.
• Do Yorkshire Terriers bark a lot? Yorkshire Terriers can be quite vocal, and they are not afraid to bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat. Early socialization and training can help to reduce excessive barking.
• How much does a Yorkshire Terrier cost? The cost of a Yorkshire Terrier can vary depending on the breeder, the puppy’s lineage, and other factors. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,000 for a Yorkie puppy.

This is just a small sampling of the many questions that people have about Yorkshire Terriers. If you have any specific questions, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or experienced breeder.

Table Summarizing Yorkshire Terrier Information

Characteristic	Description
Size	Small, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds.
Temperament	Feisty, independent, confident, affectionate, playful, protective, and vocal.
Training	Relatively easy to train, but can be stubborn. Requires consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Grooming	Requires regular brushing, bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
Health	Prone to hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, dental problems, eye problems, allergies, tracheal collapse, and portosystemic shunt.
Exercise	Needs at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, including walks, playtime, and interactive games.
Lifespan	Typically lives between 12 and 15 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Yorkshire Terriers like to live with?

Yorkshire Terriers can be delightful companions. Their affectionate nature and playful antics make them entertaining and loving housemates. However, their protective instincts and vocal tendencies require proper training and socialization to ensure they are well-behaved and happy.

Are Yorkshire Terriers good apartment dogs?

Yes, Yorkshire Terriers are generally considered good apartment dogs. Their small size makes them easy to manage in smaller spaces, and their energetic nature can be satisfied with regular walks and indoor playtime.

Are Yorkshire Terriers good with other dogs?

Yorkshire Terriers can be good with other dogs, but early socialization and training are essential. They can be prone to territorial behavior, especially towards other dogs of the same gender. It is important to introduce them to other dogs in a controlled and safe environment and to supervise interactions.

Do Yorkshire Terriers need to be crated?

While crating can be beneficial for training and safety, it is not always necessary. Yorkies can be prone to anxiety, so it is important to introduce crate training gradually and positively. Always consult with a veterinarian or certified dog trainer for guidance on crating practices.

What is the best food for a Yorkshire Terrier?

The best food for a Yorkshire Terrier is a high-quality, age-appropriate dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Consult with a veterinarian for recommendations based on your Yorkie’s age, activity level, and health condition.

How often should I feed my Yorkshire Terrier?

The frequency of feeding a Yorkshire Terrier depends on their age. Puppies should be fed several times a day, while adult dogs can be fed once or twice a day. Consult with a veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations.

How much does it cost to own a Yorkshire Terrier?

The cost of owning a Yorkshire Terrier varies depending on factors such as food, veterinary care, grooming, and toys. You can expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per year on average.