The Definitive Guide to Yorkie Tails: Everything You Need to Know

What is the typical tail length of a Yorkshire Terrier?

Yorkie tails are a distinctive feature of the breed, known for their charming and playful personalities. However, there is some variation in tail length among Yorkies. Generally, the ideal tail length for a Yorkie is considered to be about one-third the length of the dog’s body, and it should taper gradually towards the tip.

The tail should be carried horizontally or slightly raised, not curled over the back. While some Yorkies have tails that naturally fall below the length standard, others may have tails that are docked, meaning they are surgically shortened.

Docking tails has been a common practice in some breeds, including Yorkies, for historical and aesthetic reasons. However, in many countries, tail docking is now illegal or considered unethical as it can be painful and unnecessary. The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Yorkies does not require docking, and in fact, many breeders and owners prefer Yorkies with natural tails.

Regardless of the tail length, Yorkies are typically known for their energetic and playful nature. Their tails often wag excitedly when they are happy or anticipating something fun.

Here’s a table that summarizes some of the key characteristics of Yorkie tails:

Characteristic	Description
Ideal length	One-third the length of the dog’s body
Carry	Horizontally or slightly raised
Docking	May be done for historical or aesthetic reasons, but is now illegal or considered unethical in many countries
Wagging	Often wags excitedly when happy or anticipating something fun

If you are considering getting a Yorkie, it is important to do your research and understand the different aspects of the breed, including the different types of tails. Talk to breeders and other Yorkie owners to learn more about their experiences.

Why do some Yorkies have their tails docked?

Tail docking, the surgical shortening of a dog’s tail, has been practiced for centuries for various reasons, often rooted in historical tradition and perceived practicality.

Here are some reasons why Yorkies’ tails have been docked:

• Prevention of injury: In some working breeds, such as sheepdogs, tail docking was believed to prevent injuries to the tail while working. However, there is little evidence to support this claim.
• Aesthetics: Tail docking has been used to create a certain look for some breeds, often aligning with breed standards. For instance, some breed standards specify a docked tail as part of the ideal conformation.
• Historical tradition: In certain regions, tail docking has been practiced for centuries, passed down through generations as a cultural norm. This tradition may not necessarily be linked to practical reasons but rather to aesthetics and societal expectations.
• Breed standards: Some breed standards, including certain versions of the Yorkshire Terrier standard, have historically required or suggested tail docking. This practice has been controversial and has led to discussions about whether tail docking should continue.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that tail docking is a painful procedure, and many organizations and countries now consider it unethical and illegal. The ethical implications of tail docking have prompted a shift in perspective, with many breeders and owners opting for Yorkies with natural tails.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) standard for Yorkies no longer requires tail docking, and many breeders and owners advocate for leaving tails intact, emphasizing that it’s both ethical and aesthetically pleasing. If you’re considering getting a Yorkie, inquire about the breeder’s practices regarding tail docking.

While tail docking has historical and cultural roots, it’s important to be aware of its ethical implications and to consider the welfare of Yorkies when making decisions regarding their tails.

Can a Yorkie’s tail be broken?

While Yorkies are known for their small size and delicate nature, their tails are relatively strong and resilient. It is unlikely for a Yorkie’s tail to be broken simply from everyday activities like running, playing, or wagging. However, injuries can occur if the tail is subjected to significant force or trauma.

Here are some scenarios where a Yorkie’s tail could potentially be broken:

• Falls or accidents: If a Yorkie falls from a height or is involved in a car accident, the tail could be injured. The force of the impact could cause a fracture or other damage.
• Being stepped on: If a Yorkie is accidentally stepped on, the tail could be injured, especially if the weight of the person or object is substantial.
• Being bitten or attacked: If a Yorkie is bitten or attacked by another animal, the tail could be injured. The teeth or claws of the attacker could cause a fracture or other damage.
• Excessive pulling or tugging: If a Yorkie’s tail is pulled or tugged too hard, it could potentially be injured. This could occur during playtime or if the tail is accidentally caught in something.

If you suspect your Yorkie’s tail is broken, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. A veterinarian can diagnose the injury and determine the best course of treatment.

Early intervention is crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications. In most cases, a broken tail can be treated successfully with rest, immobilization, or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.

To minimize the risk of tail injuries, it’s important to supervise your Yorkie during playtime, avoid roughhousing, and be mindful of their surroundings. Proper training and socialization can also help reduce the likelihood of your Yorkie being involved in accidents or fights.

Why do Yorkies have their tails curled?

While it’s common to see Yorkies with tails that curl or bend slightly, it’s important to understand that this is not necessarily a sign of a health problem. There are several reasons why a Yorkie’s tail might curl, and most of them are perfectly normal variations.

Here are some common reasons for a Yorkie’s tail to curl:

• Genetics: Some Yorkies are simply genetically predisposed to having tails that curl or bend. This is a natural variation within the breed and is not a cause for concern.
• Positioning: If a Yorkie is sitting or lying down in a certain way, the tail might curl or bend due to the position of the body. This is a temporary phenomenon and will usually straighten out when the Yorkie changes position.
• Excitement or nervousness: Sometimes, a Yorkie’s tail will curl or bend when they are excited, nervous, or anxious. This is a natural response and is not a sign of a health problem.

If you notice your Yorkie’s tail is curling excessively or persistently, it is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can examine your Yorkie and rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the tail to curl.

However, in most cases, a curled tail in a Yorkie is simply a harmless characteristic, and you don’t need to worry. It’s important to enjoy their unique personalities and appreciate the quirks that make each Yorkie special.

Do Yorkies’ tails wag?

Yes, Yorkies’ tails wag! In fact, their tails are known for their expressive wagging, which can convey a wide range of emotions. A Yorkie’s tail wag is a delightful and heartwarming sight that often brings joy to those who witness it.

A Yorkie’s tail wag can indicate a variety of things, including:

• Happiness: A slow and gentle wag often signals happiness and contentment.
• Excitement: A fast and vigorous wag often indicates excitement and anticipation. It might be a sign that they are looking forward to a walk, playtime, or a treat.
• Playfulness: A playful wag is often characterized by a lively and energetic motion, indicating that your Yorkie is ready for some fun.
• Greeting: When a Yorkie wags its tail upon greeting a familiar person or another dog, it often signifies affection and recognition.

While tail wagging is a common and positive behavior in Yorkies, it’s important to understand that the context can influence the meaning of a wag. For instance, a wag accompanied by other body language, such as growling or a tense posture, might indicate a less friendly greeting.

Pay attention to the other signals your Yorkie might be sending, such as their ears, eyes, and posture, to get a complete understanding of their emotions. Ultimately, understanding your Yorkie’s tail wags, along with their other body language, can help you develop a stronger bond with your furry friend.

What does a Yorkshire Terrier tail look like?

The tail of a Yorkshire Terrier is a unique and charming part of its appearance. It’s typically described as:

• Tapering: The tail gradually gets thinner towards the tip, creating a graceful and elegant look.
• Carry: The tail is usually carried horizontally or slightly raised, never curled over the back.
• Length: The ideal tail length is about one-third the length of the dog’s body.
• Plumes: Yorkies typically have a beautiful, long, and silky plume of hair on their tails, which adds to their overall elegant appearance.
• Color: The tail hair is typically the same color as the rest of their coat, which is a rich, steely blue color.

While these are the general characteristics of a Yorkie’s tail, it’s important to remember that there can be some individual variations. Some Yorkies might have slightly shorter or longer tails, or the tail might be carried in a slightly different way. These variations are perfectly normal and do not necessarily indicate any health issues.

Overall, the tail of a Yorkshire Terrier is a distinctive and attractive feature that contributes to their overall charm and appeal. It’s a joy to watch a Yorkie’s tail wag with excitement and energy, and it serves as a reminder of the unique personalities and joyful nature of this beloved breed.

Do Yorkies have docked tails?

The answer to whether Yorkies have docked tails is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the breeder, the country, and the specific breed standard being followed.

Historically, tail docking was common in Yorkies, and it was often considered a part of the breed standard. However, in many countries, tail docking is now illegal or considered unethical due to concerns about animal welfare.

Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

• American Kennel Club (AKC): The AKC breed standard for Yorkies no longer requires tail docking, and many breeders and owners prefer Yorkies with natural tails. However, the AKC does not prohibit docking, so some breeders may still dock tails.
• United Kingdom: Tail docking is illegal for most breeds in the UK, including Yorkies. Exceptions are made only for specific working breeds where it is deemed necessary for their function.
• Europe: Many European countries have banned or restricted tail docking.
• Breeders: The decision to dock a Yorkie’s tail is ultimately up to the breeder. Some breeders follow traditional practices and still dock tails, while others prioritize the ethical treatment of their dogs and leave tails intact.

If you are considering getting a Yorkie, it is essential to inquire about the breeder’s practices regarding tail docking. Ask about their rationale for docking or not docking tails and whether they consider it an ethical practice.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Yorkie with a docked tail is a personal one. Be informed about the historical and ethical context of tail docking and make a choice that aligns with your values and beliefs.

How do Yorkies tails grow?

The tail of a Yorkshire Terrier, like any other part of their body, grows steadily throughout their puppyhood. The rate of growth can vary slightly depending on individual factors, but generally, a Yorkie’s tail will reach its full length by the time they are about 6-8 months old.

Here’s a general timeline of how a Yorkie’s tail might grow:

• Birth: At birth, a Yorkie’s tail will be relatively short and stubby.
• Puppyhood: The tail will start to lengthen rapidly during the first few months of life. You might notice a significant difference in its length within a few weeks.
• Adolescence: As the Yorkie enters adolescence, the tail growth will slow down, and it will gradually reach its full length.
• Adulthood: By the time a Yorkie reaches adulthood, their tail should be fully grown and no longer lengthening.

As with any dog breed, it is important to ensure that your Yorkie is receiving proper nutrition and care during their puppyhood to promote healthy growth and development, including tail growth.

If you have any concerns about your Yorkie’s tail growth, or if you notice any unusual changes or abnormalities, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

Is it normal for a Yorkie’s tail to shake?

Yes, it’s perfectly normal for a Yorkie’s tail to shake, and it’s often a sign of happiness and excitement.

Here’s why a Yorkie’s tail might shake:

• Excitement: A shaking tail often indicates excitement and anticipation, such as when they see their favorite toy or hear the jingle of their leash.
• Playfulness: A playful Yorkie might shake their tail vigorously as they engage in fun activities like chasing a ball or playing fetch.
• Greeting: When a Yorkie shakes their tail upon greeting a familiar person or another dog, it can signify affection and recognition.
• Coldness: Sometimes, a Yorkie’s tail might shake due to coldness. This is a natural shivering response to help their body regulate temperature.
• Anxiety: While less common, a Yorkie’s tail might shake when they are anxious or stressed. This is often accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as panting, pacing, or hiding.

To understand the context of a tail shake, pay attention to your Yorkie’s other body language. For instance, a tail shake accompanied by a relaxed posture and happy facial expressions likely indicates excitement or happiness. But, if the shake is paired with other signs of stress, it might be a sign of anxiety.

Overall, a shaking tail in a Yorkie is usually a harmless and endearing behavior. Enjoy watching your Yorkie’s tail shake with excitement and joy as they live their life to the fullest.

Do Yorkies’ tails get cut?

The question of whether Yorkies’ tails get cut is complex and depends on several factors, including the breeder, the country, and the specific breed standard being followed.

Historically, tail docking, the surgical shortening of a dog’s tail, was a common practice in Yorkies. It was often done for aesthetic reasons, as well as to prevent injuries in working dogs, even though there is little evidence to support this claim.

However, in many countries, including the UK, tail docking is now illegal or considered unethical. This is because tail docking is a painful procedure that is not necessary for the health or well-being of the dog.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Yorkies no longer requires tail docking, and many breeders and owners prefer Yorkies with natural tails. However, the AKC does not prohibit docking, so some breeders may still choose to dock tails.

If you are considering getting a Yorkie, it is important to inquire about the breeder’s practices regarding tail docking. Ask about their rationale for docking or not docking tails and whether they consider it an ethical practice.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Yorkie with a docked tail is a personal one. Be informed about the historical and ethical context of tail docking and make a choice that aligns with your values and beliefs.

Is it okay to pull on a Yorkie’s tail?

It is never okay to pull on a Yorkie’s tail. It can be painful and cause injury, even if it seems like they are enjoying it. Yorkie’s tails are sensitive, and pulling on them can cause discomfort, pain, and even damage to the tail.

Here are some reasons why pulling on a Yorkie’s tail is a bad idea:

• Pain: Pulling on a dog’s tail can cause pain, especially if it is done forcefully or repeatedly.
• Injury: Pulling on a Yorkie’s tail can cause injury to the tail itself, such as sprains, fractures, or even dislodgement of the tailbone.
• Fear and anxiety: Pulling on a Yorkie’s tail can cause fear and anxiety, especially if they are already nervous or apprehensive.
• Behavioral problems: Repeatedly pulling on a Yorkie’s tail can lead to behavioral problems, such as aggression, fear, or reluctance to interact with humans.
• Trust issues: Pulling on a Yorkie’s tail can damage the trust and bond between you and your dog.

Instead of pulling on your Yorkie’s tail, focus on positive reinforcement training and play methods that are safe and enjoyable for both you and your dog. Encourage gentle touch and interaction, and avoid any behaviors that could cause pain or distress.

Remember, your Yorkie’s tail is a delicate and sensitive part of their body. Treat it with respect and care to ensure their comfort and well-being.

Table summarizing key points

Feature	Description
Ideal length	One-third the length of the dog’s body
Carry	Horizontally or slightly raised
Docking	May be done for historical or aesthetic reasons, but is now illegal or considered unethical in many countries
Wagging	Often wags excitedly when happy or anticipating something fun
Curling	Can be due to genetics, positioning, or excitement/nervousness
Shaking	Commonly indicates excitement, playfulness, or greeting; can sometimes be due to coldness or anxiety
Pulling	Never okay, can be painful and cause injury

FAQ

How long should a Yorkshire Terrier’s tail be?

The ideal tail length for a Yorkshire Terrier is about one-third the length of the dog’s body. However, there is some variation in tail length among Yorkies, and some tails may be naturally shorter or longer than this standard.

What does it mean when a Yorkie’s tail is curled?

A curled tail in a Yorkie is not necessarily a sign of a health problem. It can be due to genetics, positioning, or excitement/nervousness. If you notice excessive or persistent curling, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Why do Yorkies wag their tails?

Yorkies wag their tails to express happiness, excitement, playfulness, and greeting. A wag can also indicate affection and recognition.

Is it okay to pull on a Yorkie’s tail?

No, it is never okay to pull on a Yorkie’s tail. It can be painful and cause injury.

What should I do if my Yorkie’s tail is shaking?

If your Yorkie’s tail is shaking, pay attention to their other body language to determine the cause. If they are relaxed and happy, it’s likely just excitement or happiness. If they seem stressed, it might be anxiety.

What does it mean if my Yorkie’s tail is broken?

If you suspect your Yorkie’s tail is broken, seek veterinary attention immediately. A veterinarian can diagnose the injury and determine the best course of treatment.

Is it normal for a Yorkie’s tail to be docked?

Historically, tail docking was common in Yorkies, but it is now illegal or considered unethical in many countries. The AKC breed standard no longer requires tail docking, and many breeders prefer Yorkies with natural tails. If you are considering getting a Yorkie, inquire about the breeder’s practices regarding tail docking.