Giant Yorkies: Everything You Need to Know
What is a Giant Yorkie?
The Giant Yorkie, also known as the Yorkshire Terrier, is a small dog breed originally bred in Yorkshire, England. While the breed is known for its small size, the term “Giant Yorkie” is a misnomer. The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds.
The term “Giant Yorkie” may refer to a larger-than-average Yorkie, but it’s important to note that there is no official “Giant Yorkie” breed recognized by any major kennel club.
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their long, flowing coat that is typically blue and tan. The breed is also known for its intelligence, trainability, and playful personality.
Despite their small size, Giant Yorkies are not considered to be fragile. They are generally healthy and active dogs, and they can live for 12 to 15 years with proper care.
Here are some interesting facts about the Giant Yorkie:
- The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred to hunt rats and other vermin in mines and mills.
- Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
- Giant Yorkies are known for their distinctive “Yorkie bark”.
If you are considering adopting a Giant Yorkie, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. You should also be prepared to provide your Yorkie with proper care, including food, water, exercise, and veterinary care.
Here is an image of a Giant Yorkie:
How big do Giant Yorkies get?
While the term “Giant Yorkie” is a misnomer, some Yorkies may be larger than others. This is due to a number of factors, including genetics, diet, and exercise.
The average Yorkie weighs between 4 and 7 pounds, and they typically stand between 5 and 8 inches tall at the shoulder. However, some Yorkies may grow larger than this.
If you are considering adopting a Giant Yorkie, it is important to ask the breeder about the dog’s parents and their size. This can give you a better idea of how large your Yorkie might grow.
Here is a table that shows the average size of a Yorkie at different ages:
| Age | Average Weight (lbs) | Average Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 1-2 | 3-4 |
| 4 months | 2-3 | 4-5 |
| 6 months | 3-4 | 5-6 |
| 8 months | 4-5 | 6-7 |
| 1 year | 5-7 | 7-8 |
It is important to note that these are just averages, and some Yorkies may be larger or smaller than this. If you are concerned about your Yorkie’s size, you should talk to your veterinarian.
Are Giant Yorkies healthy?
Yorkshire Terriers are generally considered to be a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health problems.
Some common health problems in Yorkies include:
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap)
- Portosystemic shunt (a condition where blood bypasses the liver)
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)
- Dental problems
- Allergies
- Obesity
To help prevent health problems, it is important to provide your Giant Yorkie with a healthy diet and regular exercise. You should also take your Yorkie to the veterinarian for regular checkups and vaccinations.
Here is an image of a Yorkshire Terrier with a healthy coat:
How do I train a Giant Yorkie?
Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and trainable dogs. With patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach your Giant Yorkie a variety of commands, including:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down
- Heel
- Roll over
- Shake hands
Start training your Giant Yorkie early. Puppies are more receptive to learning new things. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding your dog with treats and praise, to encourage good behavior.
Here are some tips for training your Giant Yorkie:
- Keep training sessions short and fun.
- Be consistent with your commands and rewards.
- Use a variety of training methods to keep your Yorkie engaged.
- Be patient and understanding. Your Giant Yorkie may not learn everything overnight.
Training your Giant Yorkie is a rewarding experience. It will help you build a strong bond with your dog and teach him important skills.
How much does a Giant Yorkie cost?
The cost of adopting a Giant Yorkie can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s lineage, and the dog’s age.
Here are some of the costs associated with owning a Giant Yorkie:
- Adoption fee: $500 – $1500
- Food: $30 – $50 per month
- Vet care: $100 – $200 per year
- Grooming: $50 – $100 per month
- Toys and supplies: $50 – $100 per year
It is important to factor in all of these costs when deciding whether to adopt a Giant Yorkie. Be prepared to make a significant financial commitment to your Yorkie’s health and well-being.
Are Giant Yorkies good with kids?
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their friendly and playful personalities. They can be good with children, but it is important to supervise all interactions between dogs and children.
Young children may not understand how to handle a small dog safely. They may accidentally drop or squeeze a Yorkie, which can lead to injury. It is also important to teach children how to interact with dogs respectfully.
If you have young children, it is best to choose a Giant Yorkie who is known to be good with kids. You should also consider adopting a dog that is at least 2 years old. Adult dogs tend to be calmer and more patient with children.
Here is an image of a Giant Yorkie playing with a child:
What is the best food for a Giant Yorkie?
The best food for a Giant Yorkie is a high-quality, commercially prepared dog food that is formulated for small breeds. Look for a food that is made with real meat as the first ingredient.
You should also avoid foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These ingredients can be harmful to your Yorkie’s health.
Here is a list of some popular dog food brands that are suitable for Giant Yorkies:
- Purina Pro Plan
- Royal Canin
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Eukanuba
- Blue Buffalo
It is important to note that not all dog foods are created equal. Some foods may be better suited for certain dogs than others. You should consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your Giant Yorkie.
How often should I groom my Giant Yorkie?
Yorkshire Terriers have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming. You should brush your Giant Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent mats and tangles.
You should also take your Giant Yorkie to a professional groomer every 6 to 8 weeks for a bath, haircut, and nail trim. You can also groom your Yorkie at home.
Here are some grooming tips for Giant Yorkies:
- Use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner.
- Be gentle when brushing your Yorkie’s coat.
- Trim your Yorkie’s nails regularly.
- Clean your Yorkie’s ears regularly to prevent infections.
Regular grooming is essential for keeping your Giant Yorkie healthy and looking his best.
How do I socialize a Giant Yorkie?
Socialization is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for small breeds like Giant Yorkies. Socialized dogs are more confident and less likely to develop behavioral problems.
Start socializing your Giant Yorkie early. Introduce him to a variety of people, dogs, and other animals. You can take your Yorkie to puppy classes, dog parks, and other public places.
Here are some tips for socializing a Giant Yorkie:
- Be patient and positive.
- Start with short, positive interactions.
- Gradually introduce your Yorkie to new people and situations.
- Reward your Yorkie for good behavior.
- Avoid punishing your Yorkie for being afraid or nervous.
Socialization is an ongoing process. Even after your Giant Yorkie is fully grown, you should continue to expose him to new people, places, and situations. This will help him stay happy, healthy, and well-adjusted.
Are Giant Yorkies hypoallergenic?
Yorkshire Terriers are not hypoallergenic. While they do have a coat that is considered to be low-shedding, they do produce dander. Dander is a protein that is found in the skin and saliva of dogs, and it can cause allergic reactions in some people.
If you are allergic to dogs, you should avoid adopting a Giant Yorkie. There are other dog breeds that are considered to be hypoallergenic, such as the Poodle, the Bichon Frise, and the Maltese.
How long do Giant Yorkies live?
Yorkshire Terriers have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, some Yorkies may live longer than this, while others may live shorter lives.
The lifespan of a Giant Yorkie can be affected by a number of factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care.
To help your Giant Yorkie live a long and healthy life, it is important to provide him with proper care. This includes feeding him a high-quality diet, providing him with regular exercise, and taking him to the veterinarian for regular checkups and vaccinations.
Giant Yorkie: Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 4-7 pounds, 5-8 inches tall |
| Coat | Long, flowing, blue and tan |
| Temperament | Intelligent, trainable, playful, friendly |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Health | Generally healthy, but prone to certain health problems |
| Grooming | Requires regular brushing and professional grooming |
| Socialization | Important to socialize early and continue throughout life |
| Hypoallergenic | No, produces dander |
| Cost | Can vary, but expect to spend $500-$1500 on adoption, plus ongoing costs for food, vet care, grooming, and supplies |
FAQ
Are Giant Yorkies good for first-time dog owners?
Yorkshire Terriers can be good dogs for first-time owners, but they do require some training and socialization. If you are a first-time owner, it is important to do your research and choose a breeder who is reputable and who can provide you with support.
Are Giant Yorkies high-maintenance?
Yorkshire Terriers are a relatively high-maintenance breed. They require regular grooming, training, and socialization. They also have a tendency to bark, so it is important to be prepared to deal with this.
How much exercise do Giant Yorkies need?
Giant Yorkies need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. They enjoy walks, playtime, and interactive games.
Can Giant Yorkies live in apartments?
Yes, Giant Yorkies can live in apartments. They are a small breed and they do not require a lot of space. However, they do need regular exercise, so it is important to make sure they get enough playtime and walks.
What are some common Yorkie personality traits?
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their intelligence, trainability, playful personality, and loyalty. They are also known for being protective of their families.
What are some common Yorkie health problems?
Yorkshire Terriers can be prone to certain health problems, including hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, dental problems, allergies, and obesity.
How can I find a reputable Yorkie breeder?
To find a reputable Yorkie breeder, ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your veterinarian. You can also look for breeders who are members of the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America or the American Kennel Club.
