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Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier is a toy breed from England also known as Yorkie.

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Yorkshire Terrier

Breed overview

Yorkshire Terrier is a toy breed from England also known as Yorkie.

Developed in Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s from small terriers to catch rats in clothing mills. Over time, their attractive appearance made them fashionable companion dogs.

People looking into Yorkshire Terrier usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 4–7 lbs • 7–8 in.

Yorkie

History and origin

Yorkshire Terrier is tied to originating from England, specifically Yorkshire, with sources often placing its development around 1860 CE.

Yorkshire Terrier is described here as placed in the Toy group and marked as an established breed.

Developed in Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s from small terriers to catch rats in clothing mills. Over time, their attractive appearance made them fashionable companion dogs.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more Toy breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Toy
Size
Toy
Origin country
England
Region
Yorkshire
Origin year
1860 CE
Weight
4–7 lbs
Height
7–8 in
Lifespan
13–16 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
2 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
4 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 2/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Yorkshire Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongSilky

Yorkshire Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Long, silky, straight coat
  • Steel blue and tan coloration
  • Compact, well-proportioned body
  • V-shaped ears

What this breed is known for

  • Developed in Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s from small terriers to catch rats in clothing mills. Over time, their attractive appearance made them fashionable companion dogs.
  • Yorkies are a toy-sized terrier with a long, silky, floor-length coat that is steel blue and tan. They have an often jaunty topknot.
  • They are very affectionate with their owners and can be good watchdogs. Yorkies often do not realize their small size, exhibiting big-dog attitudes.

Health and care notes

Yorkshire Terrier is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Luxating Patella
  • Tracheal Collapse
  • Liver Shunt
  • Hypoglycemia

Coat details: Long, Silky

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Yorkshire Terrier come from?

Yorkshire Terrier is closely associated with England, especially Yorkshire in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Yorkshire Terrier get?

Typical size details for Yorkshire Terrier on this page are 4–7 lbs, 7–8 in, 13–16 years.

What is the Yorkshire Terrier known for?

Developed in Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s from small terriers to catch rats in clothing mills. Over time, their attractive appearance made them fashionable companion dogs.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Yorkshire Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.