Thinking about adding a Yorkshire Terrier to your family? You’re in the right place. The Yorkshire Terrier is known for its unique personality, appearance, and care needs, making it a great fit for some households. Read the information below to learn more about Yorkshire Terrier traits, temperament, size, and care requirements to see if this breed is the perfect match for your lifestyle and home.
Overview
The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately the “Yorkie”, is a tiny but spirited toy-breed companion,
cherished for its silky coat, expressive eyes, and outsized personality. A full-grown Yorkie
usually stands just 7–8 inches tall and weighs up to about 7 pounds. Despite its small size,
this little dog is full of energy, curiosity and character, making it a wonderfully lively
family pet, especially for those living in apartments or smaller homes.
History
The Yorkie’s story begins in mid-1800s Northern England, when Scottish weavers who migrated to
Yorkshire and Lancashire brought with them various terrier breeds to help control vermin in
textile mills. Over time, selective breeding honed a small but hardy terrier suited for urban
living: compact enough for tight spaces, yet bold enough to chase rodents. As their popularity
for companionship grew, the Yorkshire Terrier evolved from a working dog into one of Britain’s,
and eventually the world’s, most beloved toy breeds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) formally
recognized the breed in 1885.
Background & Development
Yorkies were bred to combine terrier toughness with portability and charm. Their long, straight
silky coat, typically in a striking blue and tan/gold coloring, became a signature trait as
breeders refined the breed. Though some show dogs wear their coats long enough to sweep the
ground, many companion Yorkies have their fur trimmed short for easier maintenance and
practicality. Over the years, the breed’s size remained small, ensuring they remained ideal for
indoor living, but their temperament retained the terrier’s classic boldness and zest.
Temperament
Don’t let their dainty appearance fool you: Yorkies have big hearts and bold spirits. They are
energetic, confident, and often quite “bossy,” exuding a playful, curious energy that keeps life
interesting. They can be affectionate and devoted to their families, enjoying time on laps as
much as they enjoy a quick game or brisk walk. Because of their size and terrier roots, Yorkies
may be cautious or assertive around other animals, especially those much larger than them, and
sometimes stubborn when training or housebreaking. With early socialization and consistent,
gentle training, though, they often become loyal, amusing, and intelligent companions.
Living Conditions
Yorkies are exceptionally adaptable and thrive in apartments or small homes, no sprawling
backyard required. A short daily walk plus some indoor playtime is often all they need to burn
off energy. Their minimal shedding and coat that more closely resembles human hair have led many
to consider them a more allergy-friendly option (though no dog is truly hypoallergenic).
However, their long coat does require regular upkeep. Daily brushing is needed if you keep the
hair long; many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for convenience. Because they’re small and
delicate, supervision is recommended when around young children or larger pets. Their tiny legs
and knees can be more prone to issues like patellar luxation so gentle handling and regular vet
checkups are good practice. Finally, Yorkies generally prefer moderate climates. While they
handle indoor living well, they can be sensitive to cold or damp environments, making a cozy
home often the best environment for them.
