Yorkie Color Variations: A Comprehensive Guide

What are the different colors of Yorkies?

Yorkshire Terriers, often affectionately called Yorkies, are known for their beautiful, silky coats that come in a variety of shades. The most common Yorkie colors are:

• Steel Blue: The classic Yorkie color. Steel blue is a deep, rich blue-grey that often has a slightly silver sheen.
• Tan: This is the second primary color of Yorkies and it’s a vibrant, rich tan. It should be a bright, clear tan, not a dull or faded one.
• Black: A deep black, with a slightly bluish hue in some Yorkies.
• Golden: A rare color, golden Yorkies have a beautiful, golden sheen. It’s a combination of tan and gold that looks like a warm, glowing color.

In addition to these primary colors, there are also several variations of Yorkie coats. These can include:

• Parti-color: A Yorkie with a parti-color coat will have patches of two or more colors.
• Brindle: A Yorkie with a brindle coat will have stripes of different colors, like black and tan.
• Piebald: A Yorkie with a piebald coat will have large patches of white on their body.

It’s important to note that a Yorkie’s coat color can change as they age. The darker steel blue color can fade into a lighter, more silver shade over time. This fading is a natural process and doesn’t indicate any health problems.

The Yorkie’s coat color is a crucial part of its unique personality and appearance. It’s one of the things that makes them such a beloved breed.

Is a Yorkie’s color related to its temperament?

Many believe that a Yorkie’s temperament is connected to its color, but there’s no scientific evidence to support this. While some owners might say they’ve noticed certain tendencies based on coat color, these are mostly anecdotal.

The truth is, just like in humans, a Yorkie’s personality is a result of a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, and upbringing. A well-socialized Yorkie, regardless of its color, is more likely to be confident and outgoing.

The Yorkie is known for its energetic and playful personality, regardless of its coat color. They are often described as being loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companions. They are also very protective of their owners and are known to bark at strangers.

If you’re looking for a Yorkie companion, don’t choose based on its color. Instead, look for a Yorkie that has a good temperament and is well-socialized.

What is the most rare Yorkie color?

Golden Yorkies are considered the most rare Yorkie color. This stunning color is the result of a combination of tan and gold, giving the dog a beautiful, warm glow.

The golden color is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but it is becoming increasingly popular among breeders. Golden Yorkies are often sought after for their unique and striking appearance.

While golden Yorkies are rare, there are other less common Yorkie colors, such as:

• Parti-color: Yorkies with patches of two or more colors, like black and tan.
• Brindle: Yorkies with stripes of different colors, like black and tan.
• Piebald: Yorkies with large patches of white on their body.

If you’re looking for a rare Yorkie color, you may need to do some searching to find a breeder who specializes in producing those colors.

Are there Yorkies with a blue coat?

Yes, there are Yorkies with a blue coat. This blue coat, often referred to as steel blue, is the most common Yorkie color. The steel blue coat is a deep, rich blue-grey that often has a slightly silver sheen.

It’s important to note that the blue color isn’t a true blue like the color of the sky. It’s more of a blue-grey or silver-grey. The blue coat fades to a lighter, silver shade as the Yorkie ages.

Yorkies with blue coats can also have tan markings. These tan markings are typically found on the face, legs, and chest.

If you’re looking for a Yorkie with a blue coat, be sure to see the dog in person to ensure that the color is a true blue and not a faded or diluted shade.

Are white Yorkies real?

While white Yorkies are not a recognized color by the American Kennel Club (AKC), they can exist due to color variations and genetic factors. White Yorkies can be a result of:

• Piebald: Yorkies with a piebald coat will have large patches of white on their body, which could make them appear mostly white.
• Leucism: A rare condition where the animal lacks melanin, causing white patches on the coat.
• Albinism: Even rarer condition, where the animal lacks all pigmentation, resulting in a completely white coat, pink eyes, and nose.

It’s important to note that while white Yorkies can exist, they are not considered a true breed standard. The AKC does not recognize white as a standard Yorkie color.

If you’re looking for a white Yorkie, it’s important to research the breeder carefully. Make sure they are reputable and that the Yorkie’s white coat is due to a natural color variation and not a genetic condition.

What is a Yorkie with a brown coat called?

Yorkies with a brown coat are typically called “liver” Yorkies. The liver color is a rich, deep brown that is often described as being a “chocolate” brown.

Liver Yorkies are not considered a standard Yorkie color by the AKC, but they are becoming increasingly popular among breeders and owners.

Liver Yorkies are often thought to be less prone to certain health issues, such as cataracts, that are more common in Yorkies with other coat colors. However, this is not a scientifically proven fact.

If you’re looking for a Yorkie with a liver coat, it’s important to find a breeder who specializes in producing this color.

Are there Yorkies with black and tan coats?

Yes, Yorkies with black and tan coats are common. This is considered a standard Yorkie color, and it’s actually one of the most popular Yorkie colors.

Black and tan Yorkies have a deep black coat with tan markings on their face, legs, and chest. These markings are often described as being a rich, bright tan.

The black and tan color combination is very striking and is one of the things that makes Yorkies so appealing. If you’re looking for a Yorkie with a classic, elegant look, then a black and tan Yorkie is a great choice.

Do Yorkie colors change as they age?

Yes, Yorkie colors can change as they age. This is a natural process and is not a sign of any health problems.

The most common change in Yorkie color is the fading of the steel blue coat. The steel blue coat can fade into a lighter, silver shade as the Yorkie ages.

Tan markings can also change color over time. They may become lighter or darker, and they may also fade into a more muted shade.

The changing color of a Yorkie’s coat is nothing to be concerned about. It’s just a natural part of the aging process.

What are the different types of Yorkie coats?

Yorkie coats can vary in texture and length, but they are generally considered to be “long” and “silky.” The AKC recognizes only one type of coat for Yorkies, which is described as long, silky, and flowing.

There are, however, some variations in the texture of the coat. Some Yorkies have a coat that is more straight and smooth, while others have a coat that is more wavy or curly. The texture of the coat can also change as the Yorkie ages.

Yorkies require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. The coat needs to be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling. It also needs to be trimmed regularly to maintain its length and shape.

What is the best color Yorkie?

There is no “best” color Yorkie. Each Yorkie color has its own unique beauty and charm. The best color Yorkie for you is the one that you love the most.

When choosing a Yorkie, it’s important to consider your own personal preferences and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a Yorkie that will stand out from the crowd, then a rare color like golden or liver might be a good choice. If you prefer a classic look, then a steel blue or black and tan Yorkie might be a better choice.

Ultimately, the best color Yorkie is the one that you connect with and that you feel a special bond with.

Table Summarizing Yorkie Color Information

Color	Description	Commonality	Notes
Steel Blue	Deep, rich blue-grey with a silver sheen.	Most common	Fades to a lighter, silver shade with age.
Tan	Vibrant, rich tan.	Common	May lighten or darken with age.
Black	Deep black with a slightly bluish hue.	Common	May have tan markings.
Golden	Rare combination of tan and gold.	Least common	Not recognized by the AKC.
Parti-color	Patches of two or more colors.	Less common	Can have various color combinations.
Brindle	Stripes of different colors.	Less common	Can have various color combinations.
Piebald	Large patches of white on the body.	Less common	Can appear mostly white.
Liver	Rich, deep brown.	Less common	Not recognized by the AKC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Yorkies Hypoallergenic?

Yorkies are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but this is a common misconception. While their coats are considered low-shedding, they still produce allergens, and some people will still have an allergic reaction. If you are concerned about allergies, it’s essential to spend time with a Yorkie to see if you have a reaction before committing to owning one.

How Much Do Yorkies Cost?

The cost of a Yorkie can vary greatly depending on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and location. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for a Yorkie puppy.

How Long Do Yorkies Live?

Yorkies typically live for 12 to 15 years, although some can live even longer. Their lifespan can be affected by factors such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle.

What is the Best Food for Yorkies?

The best food for a Yorkie is a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs. Look for a food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs and that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

What Are Some Common Health Problems in Yorkies?

Like any breed, Yorkies can be prone to certain health problems. Some common health issues in Yorkies include:

• Patellar luxation (kneecap displacement)
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Dental problems
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma
• Allergies

It’s important to choose a breeder who screens their dogs for these health problems to minimize the risk of these conditions in your Yorkie.

How Much Exercise Do Yorkies Need?

While Yorkies are small dogs, they are still energetic and need regular exercise. They can be happy with short walks and playtime in the yard. However, they also enjoy more intense exercise, such as running or playing fetch, as long as they are not overexerted.

Are Yorkies Good Family Dogs?

Yorkies can be great family dogs when they are properly trained and socialized. They are often described as being loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companions. However, they can be prone to barking and can be sensitive to loud noises, so it’s important to teach them good manners and to create a calm and consistent environment in your home.