A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Yorkies

What are the different types of Yorkies?

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are a beloved breed known for their small size, big personalities, and luxurious silky coats. While all Yorkies share these common traits, there are actually different types of Yorkies that can be found, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. Let’s delve into the world of Yorkies and explore the diverse variations within this popular breed.

The most common type of Yorkie is the standard Yorkie. This is the breed that most people think of when they hear the word “Yorkie.” Standard Yorkies are typically 4-7 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 4-7 pounds. They have a long, silky coat that is typically blue and tan in color. Standard Yorkies are known for being playful, energetic, and affectionate. They are also relatively easy to train, making them a popular choice for first-time dog owners.

Another popular type of Yorkie is the miniature Yorkie. As the name suggests, miniature Yorkies are smaller than standard Yorkies. They are typically 3-4 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 2-4 pounds. Miniature Yorkies have the same long, silky coat as standard Yorkies, but their coat is often lighter in color. Miniature Yorkies are known for being even more playful and energetic than standard Yorkies. They are also very affectionate and love to cuddle.

A rarer type of Yorkie is the tea cup Yorkie. Teacup Yorkies are the smallest type of Yorkie, typically weighing less than 4 pounds. They are often bred for their small size and are often seen as a status symbol. Teacup Yorkies are known for being very fragile and require special care. They are not recommended for families with young children or other pets.

Another variation of Yorkie is the toy Yorkie. These are slightly larger than teacup Yorkies but are still considered small dogs. Toy Yorkies are often bred for their small size and playful personality. They are typically 4-6 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 3-5 pounds.

It’s important to note that the term “toy Yorkie” can sometimes be used interchangeably with “miniature Yorkie.” However, “toy Yorkie” is generally considered to be a more specific term for a Yorkie that is even smaller than a miniature Yorkie.

The size and weight of a Yorkie can vary depending on the individual dog’s genetics, diet, and exercise. However, the general guidelines provided above can give you a good idea of the size range for each type of Yorkie.

Whether you’re looking for a playful companion, a loyal friend, or a furry lapdog, there is a type of Yorkie out there that is perfect for you. By understanding the different types of Yorkies, you can make an informed decision about which one is best suited for your lifestyle and preferences.

What is the difference between a Yorkie and a Yorkshire Terrier?

The terms “Yorkie” and “Yorkshire Terrier” are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference between the two. “Yorkie” is a nickname for the breed, while “Yorkshire Terrier” is the official name for the breed. The name “Yorkshire Terrier” refers to the breed’s origin, which is the Yorkshire region of England. While “Yorkie” is a more casual and affectionate way to refer to the breed.

The terms “Yorkie” and “Yorkshire Terrier” both refer to the same breed of dog, but “Yorkie” is a more commonly used term in everyday conversation. The official breed name “Yorkshire Terrier” may be preferred in more formal contexts, such as dog shows or when discussing the breed’s history and origins.

While both terms accurately describe the same breed, “Yorkie” is a more familiar and widely used term for this playful and charming breed. Ultimately, either term is acceptable when referring to the Yorkshire Terrier, but “Yorkie” is the more commonly used and casual way to refer to this beloved breed.

What is the difference between a Yorkie and a Shih Tzu?

While both Yorkies and Shih Tzus are small, fluffy dogs with charming personalities, there are some key differences between the two breeds.

Firstly, size and weight are a major differentiator. Yorkies are typically smaller than Shih Tzus. Standard Yorkies weigh between 4-7 pounds, while Shih Tzus can weigh up to 16 pounds. This difference in size is evident in their overall appearance.

Secondly, coat type and texture differ significantly. Yorkies have a long, straight, silky coat that requires regular grooming. Shih Tzus have a longer, softer, and more flowing coat, often with a slight wave. They also require frequent grooming to prevent matting and tangles.

Thirdly, temperament and personality can vary. Yorkies are known for their playful, energetic, and sometimes feisty personalities. They are very affectionate and love to be the center of attention. Shih Tzus, on the other hand, are known for their calm and gentle personalities. They are also very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families.

Finally, lifespan can be a difference. Yorkies typically live for 12-15 years, while Shih Tzus can live for 10-16 years.

Ultimately, the choice between a Yorkie and a Shih Tzu depends on your individual preferences and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a small, playful, and energetic dog, then a Yorkie might be a good choice. If you’re looking for a calm, gentle, and affectionate dog, then a Shih Tzu might be a better fit.

What is the best type of Yorkie for me?

Choosing the best type of Yorkie for you depends on several factors, including your lifestyle, preferences, and living situation. Here’s a breakdown of some considerations:

Lifestyle and Activity Level:

• Active Individuals/Families: A standard Yorkie or miniature Yorkie might be a good fit, as they are known for their energy and playful nature.
• Less Active Individuals/Families: A teacup Yorkie or toy Yorkie might be a better choice, as they tend to be calmer and less demanding of exercise.

Living Space:

• Smaller Apartments: Teacup Yorkies or toy Yorkies might be more comfortable in smaller spaces.
• Larger Homes: Standard Yorkies or miniature Yorkies can thrive in larger spaces, but will require more space to run and play.

Family Dynamics:

• Families with Young Children: While Yorkies are generally affectionate, teacup Yorkies or toy Yorkies might be more fragile and require extra care around young children. Standard Yorkies or miniature Yorkies are generally more robust and can handle a bit more roughhousing.
• Families with Other Pets: It’s essential to consider the temperaments of both the Yorkie and any other pets in the household.

Grooming Commitment:

• Those willing to groom frequently: Any type of Yorkie requires regular grooming to maintain their luxurious coats. Standard Yorkies might require more frequent brushing than teacup or toy Yorkies.
• Those with less time for grooming: While all Yorkies require regular grooming, teacup Yorkies or toy Yorkies may be easier to manage for those with less time for brushing and bathing.

Ultimately, the best type of Yorkie for you is the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle. By considering all these factors carefully, you can choose the perfect Yorkie companion to share your life with.

What are the pros and cons of each type of Yorkie?

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each type of Yorkie:

Standard Yorkie:

Pros:

• More robust than smaller Yorkies, making them more suitable for families with young children.
• Have more energy and are more active, which makes them good companions for active individuals and families.
• Easier to train than smaller Yorkies.

Cons:

• Require more space to run and play.
• Need more frequent grooming than smaller Yorkies.

Miniature Yorkie:

Pros:

• Smaller size makes them more manageable in apartments and smaller living spaces.
• Still have plenty of energy and are very playful, making them great companions for active individuals and families.
• Very affectionate and love to cuddle.

Cons:

• More fragile than standard Yorkies.
• May require more frequent grooming than standard Yorkies.

Teacup Yorkie:

Pros:

• Very small size, making them suitable for tiny apartments or for people who prefer a smaller companion.
• Extremely affectionate and love to cuddle.

Cons:

• Extremely fragile and require special care.
• Not suitable for families with young children or other pets.
• Can be very expensive to care for due to their delicate health.

Toy Yorkie:

Pros:

• Smaller size, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.
• Very playful and energetic, making them good companions for active individuals and families.
• Very affectionate and love to cuddle.

Cons:

• More fragile than standard Yorkies.
• May require more frequent grooming than standard Yorkies.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of Yorkie is right for you is to weigh the pros and cons of each type and consider your individual needs and preferences.

What are the health concerns of each type of Yorkie?

Like all dog breeds, Yorkies are prone to certain health issues. The size and breed characteristics of each type of Yorkie can affect their susceptibility to specific health conditions. Here’s a look at some common health concerns for different types of Yorkies:

Standard Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: This is a condition where blood sugar levels drop too low. It can be more common in small breeds, especially puppies.
• Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates.
• Eye Problems: Yorkies can be prone to eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.

Miniature Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: Similar to standard Yorkies, miniature Yorkies can be prone to hypoglycemia, especially puppies.
• Patellar Luxation: Due to their smaller size, miniature Yorkies can also be prone to patellar luxation.
• Dental Problems: Miniature Yorkies often have smaller mouths and can be prone to dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Teacup Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: Teacup Yorkies are at a higher risk for hypoglycemia due to their tiny size.
• Respiratory Problems: Their small size can lead to respiratory issues like brachycephalic syndrome.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Teacup Yorkies are more susceptible to cardiovascular problems due to their smaller hearts.
• Bone Problems: They can be prone to bone fractures and other bone problems due to their delicate bone structure.

Toy Yorkies:

• Hypoglycemia: Toy Yorkies, like other small Yorkies, can be prone to hypoglycemia.
• Patellar Luxation: Toy Yorkies can also be prone to patellar luxation.
• Dental Problems: Toy Yorkies are more prone to dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, due to their smaller mouths.

It’s essential to be aware of these potential health concerns and to choose a breeder who is reputable and experienced. A responsible breeder will be able to provide you with information about the health of the parents and the puppies. They will also be able to advise you on how to care for your Yorkie and prevent potential health problems.

How to care for different types of Yorkies?

Caring for different types of Yorkies involves providing them with proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and veterinary care. However, there are some key differences in caring for each type of Yorkie, particularly when it comes to their size and fragility.

Standard Yorkies:

• Nutrition: Standard Yorkies require a high-quality dog food specifically designed for small breeds. They should also be fed a balanced diet with a good ratio of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
• Exercise: Standard Yorkies need a moderate amount of exercise daily. A daily walk or playtime in a fenced yard will help them stay active and healthy.
• Grooming: Standard Yorkies require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed every few weeks and their nails trimmed regularly.
• Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for all Yorkies, including standard Yorkies. They also require vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick prevention.

Miniature Yorkies:

• Nutrition: Miniature Yorkies also require a high-quality dog food specifically formulated for small breeds. It’s crucial to provide a balanced diet and monitor their weight, as miniature Yorkies are prone to obesity.
• Exercise: Miniature Yorkies need regular exercise but can be easily over-exercised. Short walks and playtime are usually sufficient.
• Grooming: Miniature Yorkies require frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed regularly and their nails trimmed regularly.
• Veterinary Care: Miniature Yorkies require regular veterinary check-ups for their overall health.

Teacup Yorkies:

• Nutrition: Teacup Yorkies require a specialized diet tailored to their tiny size and fragile digestive systems. They should be fed a high-quality small breed dog food that is low in fat and calories.
• Exercise: Teacup Yorkies need very little exercise, as they are prone to injury. A short walk or playtime inside is usually sufficient.
• Grooming: Teacup Yorkies require regular grooming, just like other Yorkies. They require frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles, as their coats can be delicate.
• Veterinary Care: Teacup Yorkies require regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health. They are prone to several health problems, so early detection and treatment are crucial.

Toy Yorkies:

• Nutrition: Toy Yorkies require a high-quality dog food specifically formulated for small breeds. It’s important to monitor their weight and ensure they get a balanced diet.
• Exercise: Toy Yorkies need a moderate amount of exercise, but they are also prone to injury, so it’s important to avoid over-exercising them.
• Grooming: Toy Yorkies require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed regularly and their nails trimmed regularly.
• Veterinary Care: Toy Yorkies need regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their health and catch any potential health problems early on.

Remember that proper care and attention to your Yorkie’s needs, including nutrition, exercise, grooming, and veterinary care, will help them live a long and healthy life.

Which type of Yorkie is the most expensive?

Teacup Yorkies are generally the most expensive type of Yorkie. Their small size and high demand can contribute to their high price tag.

Here’s a general breakdown of the cost for different types of Yorkies:

Standard Yorkies:

• Purchase Price: $500 – $1,500
• Annual Cost: $1,000 – $2,000

Miniature Yorkies:

• Purchase Price: $600 – $2,000
• Annual Cost: $1,200 – $2,500

Teacup Yorkies:

• Purchase Price: $1,500 – $5,000+
• Annual Cost: $2,000 – $5,000+

Toy Yorkies:

• Purchase Price: $700 – $2,500
• Annual Cost: $1,500 – $3,000

The cost of owning a Yorkie can vary significantly depending on factors such as the breeder, location, and specific health needs of the dog. Teacup Yorkies are often more expensive due to their small size and the specialized care they require. It’s important to consider the total cost of ownership before bringing any Yorkie home.

Which type of Yorkie is the most common?

The most common type of Yorkie is the standard Yorkie. Standard Yorkies are the classic Yorkie, and their popularity is a testament to their charming personalities and easy-going nature.

Standard Yorkies are widely available, and their moderate size and robust health make them suitable for a variety of lifestyles and families.

While miniature Yorkies and teacup Yorkies also have their devoted fans, standard Yorkies remain the most prevalent and beloved type of Yorkie.

Which type of Yorkie is the best for families?

The best type of Yorkie for families depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each family.

For families with young children, standard Yorkies are generally more suitable, as they are more robust and can handle a bit more roughhousing. However, it’s essential to teach children how to interact with dogs safely, regardless of the size of the dog.

Miniature Yorkies can also be good companions for families, but they are more fragile and require more careful supervision around young children.

Teacup Yorkies are not recommended for families with young children due to their extreme fragility.

Toy Yorkies can be a good choice for families, but their smaller size and delicate nature require careful supervision around young children.

Ultimately, the best type of Yorkie for a family depends on the family’s individual needs and preferences. It’s crucial to choose a Yorkie that is the right size and temperament for your family and to teach children how to interact with dogs safely.

What is the best age to get a Yorkie?

The best age to get a Yorkie is a matter of personal preference. However, many experts recommend adopting a Yorkie puppy between 8 and 12 weeks old.

This age range allows puppies to be fully weaned from their mother and to have received basic socialization from their littermates. It’s also an age when puppies are still young enough to be easily trained and to bond with their new families.

However, older Yorkies can also make wonderful companions. Adopting an older Yorkie can be a fulfilling experience, as you’ll be giving a loving home to a dog that might need it most. Older Yorkies may already be house-trained and have basic obedience skills, making them easier to integrate into your family.

Ultimately, the best age to get a Yorkie is the age that is right for you and your family. Consider your lifestyle, your ability to train and socialize a puppy, and the needs of your family when deciding on the right age for your new Yorkie companion.

Which type of Yorkie is the most hypoallergenic?

All Yorkies, regardless of their size, are considered to be hypoallergenic. Their coats are typically described as “hypoallergenic” because they don’t shed as much as other breeds. However, it’s important to note that no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic, and all dogs produce dander, which is a common allergen.

While Yorkies are generally considered hypoallergenic, some people may still experience allergic reactions to them. This is because dander can be present in their saliva and urine, even if they don’t shed much. If you are concerned about allergies, it’s best to spend time with a Yorkie before adopting one to see if you have any reactions.

Table summarizing information about different types of Yorkies:

Type of Yorkie	Size	Weight	Temperament	Pros	Cons
Standard Yorkie	4-7 inches	4-7 pounds	Playful, energetic, affectionate	Robust, active, easy to train	Requires more space, more frequent grooming
Miniature Yorkie	3-4 inches	2-4 pounds	Playful, energetic, affectionate	Smaller size, manageable in smaller spaces	More fragile, more frequent grooming
Teacup Yorkie	< 3 inches	< 4 pounds	Playful, energetic, affectionate	Tiny size, extremely affectionate	Extremely fragile, not suitable for families with children or other pets, expensive
Toy Yorkie	4-6 inches	3-5 pounds	Playful, energetic, affectionate	Smaller size, playful, affectionate	More fragile, more frequent grooming

FAQ

Are Yorkies good family dogs?

Yes, Yorkies can be wonderful family dogs, but it’s important to consider the size and temperament of the Yorkie you choose. Standard Yorkies are generally more robust and can handle a bit more roughhousing, making them a good choice for families with young children. However, all Yorkies require proper socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved and safe around children.

Are Yorkies easy to train?

Yorkies are generally considered to be intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn at times, so consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended.

How much exercise do Yorkies need?

The amount of exercise a Yorkie needs will vary depending on its age, size, and energy level. However, most Yorkies need at least a moderate amount of exercise daily. A short walk, playtime in a fenced yard, or interactive games indoors can help meet their exercise needs.

How much do Yorkies cost?

The cost of owning a Yorkie can vary significantly depending on the breeder, location, and specific health needs of the dog. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more for a Yorkie puppy. The annual cost of owning a Yorkie can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on factors such as food, vet care, grooming, and other expenses.

What kind of food do Yorkies eat?

Yorkies need a high-quality dog food specifically formulated for small breeds. It’s crucial to choose a diet that is balanced and provides the essential nutrients for their growth and development. You should also consult with your vet about the best diet for your Yorkie, as their individual needs can vary.

Are Yorkies good apartment dogs?

Yes, Yorkies can be excellent apartment dogs, especially if they are provided with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Their small size and relatively low exercise requirements make them well-suited to apartment living. However, it’s essential to provide them with opportunities to socialize and interact with other dogs and people.

Are Yorkies good with children?

Yorkies can be good with children, but it’s essential to teach children how to interact with dogs safely. Standard Yorkies tend to be more robust and can handle a bit more roughhousing than smaller Yorkies. However, all Yorkies need proper supervision around children to prevent any accidents. It’s always important to remember that dogs are living creatures, and they require respect and gentle treatment.