Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier was bred by miners to hunt rats and are known to be feisty, gutsy hunters even though they are such a small breed of dog.

These small dogs love to play but are also known for being rather stubborn and might bark excessively unless controlled through training from an early age.

Yorkshire Terrier Facts

Exercise Requirements:      

Good with Children:             

Easy to Train:                        

Good Watchdog:                    

Low Shedding:                       

Good with Other Pets:         

Vital Statistics

Size: 22.5-23.5 cm (9 in)

Weight: 2.5-3.5 kg (5.5-8 lb)

Coat: Long, straight and fine with a silky texture

Colour: Dark steel blue and bright tan

Lifespan: 14 years

Special Characteristics

These small dogs are alert, love to play and are sometimes rather feisty. You would also describe this breed of dog as being spirited, friendly, courageous and at times stubborn.

Exercise Requirements

The dog will be busy at home and outside the house and are therefore classed as having high exercise requirements. This breed will be happy with two good walks each day.

Attitude Towards:

Owners: Are incredibly loyal and affectionate towards their owners.

Children: Are usually good around children, although they may nip and are not recommended to be around young children. They are small and could get injured by boisterous children playing.

Other Pets: They have a high chase and prey drive and may therefore cause harm to other small pets and could well injure cats unless raised with them.

Strangers: Good with strangers if well socialised.

Other Unfamiliar Dogs: Will be good around unknown dogs if well socialised, you should make this part of your training schedule.

What to Watch Out For

This breed is known for excessive barking, particularly if under exercised. The dogs long coat will bring in mud and dirt from outside into your home.

Their long fur coat needs daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming, the fur on their head needs to be clipped or tied back to allow the dog to see clearly.

Health Risks

These small dogs have six potential health risks to take note of including; patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes, hypoglycaemia, liver shunts, dental problems and collapsed trachea.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner of the Yorkshire Terrier would be an active, gentle person who can provide lots of play and exercise for this rather lively little dog.

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