Yorkshire Terrier Colors: A Comprehensive Guide

What are the most common Yorkshire Terrier colors?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their stunning, silky coats that come in a variety of shades. The most common Yorkshire Terrier colors are:

• Steel Blue and Tan: This is the classic Yorkshire Terrier color, with a deep blue-black coat that gradually lightens to a rich tan on the face, legs, and chest.
• Golden and Tan: This color variation features a golden coat that can range from light to dark, with tan markings on the face, legs, and chest.

It’s important to note that Yorkie puppies are often born black and tan, and their coat color can change as they mature. This is because their pigment cells continue to develop over the first few years of their lives.

Yorkshire Terriers can also have rarer color variations, such as:

• Parti-color: This type of Yorkie has patches of white fur in addition to the traditional steel blue and tan or golden and tan.
• Brindle: Brindle Yorkies have a striped or streaked pattern in their coat, which can be a combination of black and tan or golden and tan.

The color of a Yorkshire Terrier’s coat can be influenced by a number of factors, including genetics, diet, and even the amount of sunlight they are exposed to. It’s essential to consult with a reputable breeder or veterinarian to learn more about the specific color variations of your Yorkie.

What colors are Yorkshire Terriers born?

Yorkshire Terrier puppies are typically born with a black and tan coat. This is because their pigment cells are still developing and haven’t fully matured. As the puppy grows, its coat will gradually lighten and change color. The final color of a Yorkie’s coat is usually determined by the time it is about 18 months old.

The color change process can vary depending on the individual puppy, but it’s a natural process that occurs in all Yorkshire Terriers. Some puppies may lighten to a steel blue and tan color, while others may develop a golden and tan coat.

It’s important to note that the color of a Yorkshire Terrier puppy’s coat is not always an accurate predictor of its final adult color. It’s best to consult with a reputable breeder or veterinarian to get an idea of what colors the puppy may eventually develop.

Can Yorkshire Terriers change color?

Yes, Yorkshire Terriers can change color as they mature. This is because their pigment cells continue to develop and produce melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color, over the first few years of their lives.

As a Yorkie puppy grows, its coat will gradually lighten and change from black and tan to steel blue and tan or golden and tan. This process is completely natural and is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, and exposure to sunlight.

While a Yorkie’s coat color can change over time, it’s important to note that the change is usually gradual. It’s also unlikely for a Yorkie to change from one color variation to another completely different color. For example, a steel blue and tan Yorkie is unlikely to turn golden and tan.

It’s essential to consult with a reputable breeder or veterinarian to understand the color changes that are expected in your Yorkie and to address any concerns you may have.

Why is my Yorkshire Terrier’s coat fading?

There are a few reasons why a Yorkshire Terrier’s coat might fade. Some common causes include:

• Sun exposure: Excessive exposure to sunlight can bleach the pigment in a Yorkie’s coat, making it appear lighter.
• Poor diet: A diet lacking in essential nutrients, such as protein and vitamins, can also affect coat color.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can cause coat fading in Yorkies.
• Aging: As Yorkies age, their coat naturally becomes lighter and may even turn gray or white.
• Improper grooming: Harsh shampoos, excessive brushing, and improper bathing can damage the coat and contribute to fading.

If you notice your Yorkie’s coat fading, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions and get advice on how to prevent further fading.

What is the rarest Yorkshire Terrier color?

While steel blue and tan and golden and tan are the most common Yorkshire Terrier colors, there are some rarer variations that are highly sought after by breeders and enthusiasts.

One of the rarest Yorkshire Terrier colors is parti-color. Parti-color Yorkies have patches of white fur in addition to the traditional steel blue and tan or golden and tan. These unique color patterns can make them stand out from the crowd.

Another rare color variation is brindle. Brindle Yorkies have a striped or streaked pattern in their coat, which can be a combination of black and tan or golden and tan. This distinctive pattern can give them a wild and striking appearance.

It’s important to note that the rarity of these color variations can also make them more expensive. If you’re interested in a parti-color or brindle Yorkie, be prepared to pay a premium price.

What does it mean if my Yorkshire Terrier has white markings?

White markings on a Yorkshire Terrier can indicate a few things. They are usually present in parti-color Yorkies, as mentioned above. These markings can be small or large, and they can be located anywhere on the dog’s body.

While white markings are not always a sign of a parti-color Yorkie, they can be a sign of other color variations, such as piebald or Irish spotting. In these cases, the white markings are typically more extensive and cover a larger portion of the dog’s body.

It’s important to note that white markings on a Yorkie don’t necessarily affect its health or temperament. They are simply a unique characteristic that can add to the dog’s individual personality.

What does it mean if my Yorkshire Terrier has a black coat?

While black is not considered a traditional Yorkshire Terrier color, some Yorkies may have a black coat, especially as puppies. This is usually because their pigment cells haven’t fully matured yet.

As the puppy grows, its coat will usually lighten to a steel blue or golden color. However, some Yorkies may retain their black coat throughout their life. This is not uncommon and is usually a result of genetics. It’s important to note that a black Yorkshire Terrier is not necessarily a sign of any health problems.

A black Yorkie may simply have a dominant gene for black pigment, which prevents its coat from lightening to a steel blue or golden color. If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s coat color, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian.

What is the difference between steel blue and golden Yorkshire Terriers?

Steel blue and golden Yorkshire Terriers are both considered traditional colors, but they differ in the shade of their base coat.

Steel blue Yorkies have a dark, bluish-black coat that gradually lightens to a rich tan on the face, legs, and chest. The steel blue coat color is often described as a deep, rich blue, similar to the color of steel.

Golden Yorkies have a golden coat that can range from light to dark. This color variation is typically a lighter shade than steel blue, with a warm, golden hue. The tan markings on a golden Yorkie’s face, legs, and chest are usually a lighter shade than those found on a steel blue Yorkie.

Both steel blue and golden Yorkies are beautiful and popular, and the choice of color ultimately comes down to personal preference.

How can I keep my Yorkshire Terrier’s coat color vibrant?

There are several things you can do to help keep your Yorkshire Terrier’s coat color vibrant and healthy:

• Provide a balanced diet: Feeding your Yorkie a high-quality diet that’s rich in protein and essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can help to promote healthy coat growth and color.
• Regular grooming: Regularly brushing your Yorkie’s coat will help to remove dead hair and stimulate healthy growth.
• Use the right shampoo: Choose a shampoo that’s specifically formulated for Yorkies and that’s gentle on their sensitive skin.
• Limit sun exposure: Excessive exposure to sunlight can bleach the pigment in a Yorkie’s coat, so limit your dog’s time outdoors on sunny days.
• Consult a veterinarian: If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s coat color, or if you notice any sudden changes, consult with your veterinarian. They can help to rule out any medical conditions and provide advice on how to best care for your dog’s coat.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your Yorkie’s coat color vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

Yorkshire Terrier Color Summary

Color	Description	Rarity
Steel Blue and Tan	Deep blue-black coat with rich tan markings on face, legs, and chest.	Common
Golden and Tan	Golden coat with tan markings on face, legs, and chest.	Common
Parti-color	Patches of white fur in addition to steel blue and tan or golden and tan.	Rare
Brindle	Striped or streaked pattern in coat, combination of black and tan or golden and tan.	Rare
Black	Solid black coat, sometimes present in puppies.	Uncommon

Frequently Asked Questions About Yorkshire Terrier Colors

What happens if my Yorkie has a white tip on its tail?

A white tip on a Yorkie’s tail is usually a sign of a parti-color Yorkie. It’s a common marking and doesn’t affect the dog’s health or temperament.

Does a Yorkie’s color affect its price?

Yes, a Yorkie’s color can affect its price. Rarer colors, such as parti-color and brindle, can be more expensive.

Is it normal for a Yorkie to have a brown nose?

Yes, a Yorkie’s nose can be brown, especially in puppies. As the dog matures, the nose may lighten to a more pinkish color. However, some Yorkies retain their brown nose throughout their lives.

Can I dye my Yorkie’s coat?

It’s not recommended to dye your Yorkie’s coat. The chemicals in hair dye can be harmful to your dog’s skin and can even cause allergic reactions.

How can I tell what color my Yorkie will be?

It’s difficult to tell what color your Yorkie will be with certainty. It depends on their genetics and how their pigment cells develop over time.

Can I breed two Yorkies of different colors?

Yes, you can breed two Yorkies of different colors. However, the color of the puppies will depend on the genetics of both parents.

Is a Yorkie’s color related to its personality?

No, a Yorkie’s color is not related to its personality. Personality is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and training.