Top Dog Breeds: The Yorkshire Terrier

Learn all about what makes the Yorkshire Terrier one of the most popular dog breeds.

Having a very appealing charisma often makes the Yorkshire Terrier a favorite with many dog owners. If you own a Yorkshire Terrier, you already know it is often difficult to resist its charm. It does not only flow beautifully across a show hall, but is full of energy loving to dash around in any open space. Physically, the Yorkshire Terrier is a little dog and is often described as cute with its small dimensions and beautiful looking coat. Despite its small stature, the Yorkshire Terrier has a vivacious personality, making it huge amounts of fun for its owners.

Yorkshire Terrier Breed Story

The cute Terrier we know and love today was like the majority of dogs, bred for a purpose. It was the Terrier's job to control vermin in the newly industrialized cities during the 19th century. There, small size made them perfect for chasing after rats where other dogs could not follow. Their tenacity, prey instincts and ability to work on their own are all breed characteristics associated with the modern Yorkshire Terrier.
READ MORE > [links to the breed's ""Breed Story"" section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

Yorkshire Terrier Temperament

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty dog whose personality is much larger than its size would suggest, loving social situations where they interact with other dogs well. Despite the fearless nature of the Yorkshire Terrier, the breed displays an even temperament with high spirits.
LEARN MORE > [links to breed's Temperament section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

For Official Standards:

Official Standards

Dog Photos

Yorkshire Terrier Standards

• Country of origin: Great Britain
• Height approximately (at withers/shoulder): Average of 19cm / 7in (standards may vary)
• Weight approximately: Up to 3kg / 7lbs (standards may vary)
• Coat: Moderately long straight.
• Color: Dark steel blue, extending from the back of the head to the root of tail. Hair on chest is bright tan, with all tan hair darker at the roots than in middle, moving to lighter at tips.
• Markings: No Markings
• Lifespan: Above average 12-15 years

Good to Know - Yorkshire Terrier

+ Very light shedding despite long coat
+ Very little exercise needed
+ Good for an apartment
- Not good around young children
- Very active indoors
- Enjoys barking