Meet 6 Types Of Yorkie Terriers You Can Own

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are a beloved breed for their charming personalities, small size, and stunning silky coats. But did you know that Yorkies come in various types, each with unique characteristics and appearances? From the classic Yorkie to the more rare and less familiar, there’s a type of Yorkie to suit every personality and preference.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the fascinating world of Yorkie types, covering their origins, temperament, grooming needs, and unique features. Whether you’re considering adopting a Yorkie for the first time or simply curious about the different varieties, this article has you covered.

Let’s embark on this journey to discover the captivating world of Yorkie Terriers.

What are the different types of Yorkie Terriers?

Yorkie Terriers are typically categorized into six main types: the Classic Yorkie, the Teacup Yorkie, the Toy Yorkie, the Miniature Yorkie, the Parti Yorkie, and the Biewer Terrier. These variations stem from size, coat color, and sometimes even temperament. Let’s explore each type in detail.

Classic Yorkie

The Classic Yorkie, also known as the Standard Yorkie, is the original and most recognized type of Yorkie. These Yorkies are known for their distinctive steel blue and tan coat, where the blue color predominantly adorns the body, and the tan is found on the face, legs, and chest.

Classic Yorkies are generally around 4-7 inches tall and weigh between 4-7 pounds. They possess a lively and playful personality, making them great companions for active families. However, they can also be quite affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their beloved humans.

Teacup Yorkie

The Teacup Yorkie is a smaller version of the Classic Yorkie, characterized by their incredibly diminutive size. These tiny Yorkies, usually weighing under 4 pounds, are known for their delicate features and charming personalities.

Teacup Yorkies require a lot of care and attention due to their fragile nature. They are prone to health issues and require a special diet and exercise routine. However, their small size and adorable appearance make them irresistible to many Yorkie enthusiasts.

Toy Yorkie

The Toy Yorkie is another smaller variation of the Yorkie, although slightly larger than the Teacup Yorkie. They typically weigh between 4-6 pounds and stand around 5-6 inches tall. Toy Yorkies share many similarities with Classic Yorkies in terms of temperament and personality.

They are known for their intelligence, playful nature, and affectionate personalities. Toy Yorkies are great for families and individuals who seek a small and loving companion. However, they do require regular exercise and grooming to maintain their health and beauty.

Miniature Yorkie

The Miniature Yorkie is a relatively newer type of Yorkie, known for their smaller size and more compact appearance. They are often described as “pocket-sized” due to their small stature. Miniature Yorkies typically weigh between 2-4 pounds and stand around 4-5 inches tall.

These petite Yorkies possess a charming and playful personality, making them excellent companions for those seeking a smaller and more portable canine friend. However, their small size necessitates a great deal of care and attention to prevent injuries and health complications.

Parti Yorkie

The Parti Yorkie is a unique type of Yorkie characterized by its distinctive particolored coat, meaning that it features more than one color. The most common Parti Yorkie color combination is black and tan. These Yorkies are typically smaller than Classic Yorkies and weigh between 4-6 pounds.

Parti Yorkies are known for their playful and affectionate personalities. Their unique coat pattern adds an extra touch of charm and appeal. However, their particolored coats may require more frequent grooming to maintain their beauty and cleanliness.

Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is a rare and less familiar type of Yorkie that originated in Germany. These Yorkies are known for their distinctive tri-color coat, featuring white, black, and tan markings. They are typically slightly larger than other Yorkie types and weigh between 6-8 pounds.

Biewer Terriers are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them ideal companions for families and individuals who want to engage in training and activities.

What is the best type of Yorkie for me?

Choosing the best type of Yorkie for you depends on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Lifestyle: Do you live in a small apartment or a spacious home? Are you an active individual or prefer a more relaxed lifestyle?
Time commitment: How much time are you willing to devote to grooming, training, and exercise?
Experience level: Are you a first-time dog owner or experienced with small breed dogs?
Budget: Can you afford the cost of food, vet care, and other expenses associated with owning a Yorkie?

If you’re an active individual with limited space, a Classic Yorkie might be a good fit. However, if you prefer a smaller and more portable companion, a Teacup Yorkie or Toy Yorkie could be a better choice. The Parti Yorkie is a good option for those who appreciate unique and vibrant coat patterns. And if you’re looking for a gentle and intelligent companion, the Biewer Terrier is a great option. Ultimately, the best type of Yorkie for you is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

What are the pros and cons of owning a Yorkie?

Like any other breed, owning a Yorkie comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:

Pros:

Small size: Yorkies are small and easy to manage, making them ideal for apartments and smaller homes.
Affectionate nature: Yorkies are known for their loving and affectionate personalities.
Playful and energetic: Yorkies are energetic and playful dogs, making them great companions for active individuals.
Intelligent and trainable: Yorkies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
Long lifespan: Yorkies typically have a lifespan of 12-15 years, providing their owners with many years of companionship.

Cons:

High maintenance: Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their silky coats.
Prone to health issues: Yorkies are prone to certain health problems, such as patellar luxation and hypoglycemia.
Can be barkers: Yorkies can be prone to barking, especially if they are not properly trained.
Fragile bones: Yorkies have delicate bones, making them susceptible to injuries.
Can be demanding: Yorkies require a lot of attention and care, and may become anxious or destructive if they are neglected.

Owning a Yorkie is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges involved. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before bringing a Yorkie into your home.

How much does it cost to own a Yorkie?

The cost of owning a Yorkie can vary depending on several factors, including the type of Yorkie, location, and breeder. Here’s a breakdown of the initial and ongoing expenses you can expect:

Initial Costs:

Purchase price: Yorkies can range in price from $500 to $2,000, depending on the breeder and lineage.
Supplies: You’ll need to purchase a crate, bed, food and water bowls, leash, collar, toys, and grooming supplies.
Vet checkup and vaccinations: You’ll need to take your Yorkie to the vet for a checkup and vaccinations.

Ongoing Costs:

Food: Yorkies typically eat a high-quality diet, which can cost around $30-$50 per month.
Grooming: Yorkies require regular professional grooming, which can cost around $50-$100 per appointment.
Vet care: You’ll need to budget for annual checkups, vaccinations, and potential medical treatments.
Training and enrichment: Consider the cost of training classes, toys, and other enrichment activities.

Owning a Yorkie can be expensive, so it’s crucial to budget accordingly. Make sure you can afford the ongoing costs before bringing a Yorkie into your home.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

While Yorkies are generally healthy dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. Some common health problems include:

Patellar luxation: This condition involves the kneecap dislocating, often causing pain and lameness.
Hypoglycemia: This occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, which can cause weakness, seizures, and coma.
Dental disease: Yorkies are prone to dental problems, including plaque buildup and gum disease.
Eye problems: Some Yorkies may experience eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Allergies: Yorkies can be prone to allergies, which can cause skin problems, respiratory issues, and digestive problems.

It’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who screens for these health issues and provides health guarantees. Regular vet checkups and preventive care can help mitigate the risk of these health problems.

How can I find a Yorkie breeder?

Finding a reputable Yorkie breeder is crucial to ensure you get a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Here are some tips for finding a good breeder:

Ask for recommendations: Talk to your vet, friends, and family members who own Yorkies.
Research online: Look for reputable breeders who are members of the Yorkie Club of America or other reputable breed clubs.
Visit the breeder: Visit the breeder’s home or kennel and meet the parent dogs.
Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the breeder questions about their breeding practices, health screening, and puppy care.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or something doesn’t seem right, move on to another breeder.

A reputable breeder will be transparent about their practices, provide health guarantees, and be willing to answer your questions. Don’t settle for less than the best for your new Yorkie puppy.

What are some tips for grooming a Yorkie?

Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their silky coats and keep them healthy. Here are some grooming tips for Yorkies:

Brush daily: Brush your Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent mats and tangles.
Bathe regularly: Bathe your Yorkie every 4-6 weeks, using a mild shampoo and conditioner.
Trim nails: Trim your Yorkie’s nails every 2-3 weeks to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort.
Clean ears: Clean your Yorkie’s ears regularly to prevent wax buildup and infections.
Brush teeth: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth daily to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.

If you’re not comfortable grooming your Yorkie yourself, you can take them to a professional groomer. Professional grooming can help maintain the Yorkie’s coat and prevent health problems.

What are some fun facts about Yorkies?

Yorkies are full of personality and charm, and they have some interesting facts to their name. Here are a few fun facts about Yorkies:

They were originally bred to catch rats: Yorkies were originally bred in Yorkshire, England, to catch rats in textile mills.
They were once considered a working breed: Yorkies were considered a working breed and were often used to hunt small game.
They are one of the smallest dog breeds: Yorkies are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world.
They are known for their silky coats: Yorkies are known for their long, silky coats that require regular grooming.
They come in a variety of colors: Yorkies come in a variety of colors, including blue and tan, black and tan, and white.

These fun facts highlight the unique and fascinating history of Yorkies. Their small size, charming personalities, and striking coats have made them a beloved breed for centuries.

Yorkie Types Comparison Table

Here is a table summarizing the key characteristics of the different Yorkie types:

Type	Size	Weight	Coat Color	Temperament	Grooming Needs
Classic Yorkie	4-7 inches	4-7 pounds	Steel blue and tan	Lively, playful, affectionate	High maintenance
Teacup Yorkie	Under 4 inches	Under 4 pounds	Steel blue and tan	Delicate, charming, affectionate	Very high maintenance
Toy Yorkie	5-6 inches	4-6 pounds	Steel blue and tan	Intelligent, playful, affectionate	High maintenance
Miniature Yorkie	4-5 inches	2-4 pounds	Steel blue and tan	Charming, playful, affectionate	High maintenance
Parti Yorkie	4-6 inches	4-6 pounds	Particolored, typically black and tan	Playful, affectionate	High maintenance
Biewer Terrier	6-8 inches	6-8 pounds	Tricolor, white, black, and tan	Gentle, affectionate, intelligent	High maintenance

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie types:

Is a Teacup Yorkie right for me?

Teacup Yorkies are incredibly adorable and small, but they require a lot of care and attention. Their fragile nature makes them prone to health issues and requires a special diet and exercise routine. They may not be suitable for families with young children or those who are new to dog ownership.

What is the difference between a Toy Yorkie and a Miniature Yorkie?

The main difference between a Toy Yorkie and a Miniature Yorkie is size. Toy Yorkies are typically slightly larger than Miniature Yorkies and can weigh up to 6 pounds. Both types are known for their playful and affectionate personalities.

How do I choose a reputable Yorkie breeder?

Look for a breeder who is a member of reputable breed clubs, such as the Yorkie Club of America. Ask the breeder about their breeding practices, health screening, and puppy care. Visit the breeder’s home or kennel to meet the parent dogs and observe the environment.

What is the best way to groom a Yorkie?

Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their silky coats. Brush your Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent mats and tangles, bathe them every 4-6 weeks using a mild shampoo and conditioner, and trim their nails every 2-3 weeks.

Do Yorkies get along with other pets?

Yorkies can generally get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized. Early socialization is important to help them develop good social skills and learn to interact peacefully with other animals.

Are Yorkies good for first-time dog owners?

Yorkies can be good for first-time dog owners if they are prepared to provide them with the necessary care and attention. They are relatively easy to train and are known for their affectionate personalities. However, their high maintenance needs and potential health issues may not be suitable for everyone.

What are some fun facts about Yorkies?

Yorkies were originally bred to catch rats in textile mills, they were once considered a working breed, they are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, they are known for their long, silky coats, and they come in a variety of colors.

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Meet 6 Types Of Yorkie Terriers You Can Own