Yorkshire Terrier Breed Information and Pictures

Yorkshire Terrier Breed

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Picture
Photo ©2005 General - Tiny Tracks

Standard Yorkshire Terrier Characteristics

Class: Toy Group

Nick Names: Yorkie

Height: 6 - 7 inches (15-17�cm.)

Weight: 5 to 7 lb (2.3 to 3.2 kg)

Color: Blue and Tan, Black and tan

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Description & Appearance:

Yorkies have a single coat of long hair that if left to grow, will grow very long and part down the middle of their back. As a puppy their hair is black and tan and as they age steal-blue hues begin to replace the black. The coat is silky, fine and lustrous.

A Yorkie�s head is held high, back is level and body is compact and well-proportioned. They have a button sized black nose, lively eyes and erect ears.

Temperament:

Yorkshire Terriers are brave little dogs that often forget that size does matter. Whether they�re barking at other dogs 10 times their size or scuffling between your feet, one must always have a watchful eye for this adorable breed. Yorkies are personable, playful, bright and spunky. They enjoy romping around with other pets, cats or dogs. Bred as ratters, they will be aggressive to rabbits and rodents found in the yard.

Yorkshire Terriers are gentle natured and not very mischievous. Housebreaking can be a bit of a chore if not given constant attention. They are eager to learn tricks if you have their favorite treat. They sometimes shy away from children if they�ve been mistreated in the past.

Health:

Yorkshire Terriers suffer from genetic defects as Luxating Patella and liver shunt. Older Yorkies sometimes develop cataracts. Miniature Yorkies, sometimes called Teacup Yorkies can have serious health problems stemming from breeding too small. The breed is very fragile and can break bones easily from falls or other accidents. They don�t do well in the cold, so they�re often found bundled up in a blanket or wearing a sweater in the colder months.

This breed in good health can live up to 15 years of age.

Care & Grooming:

Yorkshire Terriers don�t shed. They do have a lot of hair however. Many owners have their Yorkies trimmed monthly by a professional groomer to keep the hair from matting. If they don�t get their monthly �puppy cut�, then they�ll need regular brushing. Be prepared for hours of grooming for a full coat of hair. With a full head of hair, many owners will tie their hair up into a �whale spout� to keep it out of their eyes.

This breed is an indoor breed and suited well for apartment life. They get much of their exercise running through the house and battling their toys. At the same time, they�re very active and enjoy traveling with you or taking the occasional walk.

History:

The Yorkshire Terrier is thought to have descended from Scottish and English Terriers. The breed is a relatively new breed, developed through the later half of the 19th century and was bred primarily as a ratter.

More Information:

You can also browse the forums for more information about Yorkshire Terriers by owners of this wonderful breed. See the following:

Click here for Yorkshire Terrier discussions.
Click here for Yorkshire Terrier pictures.