The Yorkshire Terrier Shop
Yorkshire Terrier Breed Summary
Adoring, High-Spirited, Fun-Loving and Affectionate
The Yorkshire Terrier first came about during the Industrial Revolution, when Scottish Workers came down to England to work in the new textile mills and factories, they bought their dogs (Clydesdale and Paisley Terriers) with them. These dogs were much larger than the Yorkshire Terrier we see today but were mainly used to catch rats. It's thought that the Clydesdale Terriers were crossed with Toy Terriers around this time, to create what we now know as the Yorkie. This particular name was given to them, as primary breed development took place in this particular county. This dog has since become one of the most popular in the world and is in fact, the most popular toy breed in America! Because of their smaller size, they are both suitable for apartment living and being carried around in special doggy purses!
Kennel Club Group | Toy |
Lifespan | 13-16 years |
Height (at the withers) | Males and Females 7 - 9 in |
Weight | Males and Females 4lb -7lb |
Coat | Long, Silky, Perfectly Straight Single Coat |
Color | Blue and Tan |
Eye color | Brown |
Common health issues | Patellar Luxation; Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA); Portosystemic Shunt (PSS); Hypoglycemia; Collapsed Trachea; Reverse Sneezing. |
Other Names | Yorkie |
Although they might be small, this breed is full of personality, making both a high-spirited and adoring companion. They are always on the outlook for fun and adventure (and potentially a spot of mischief as well…). As they are mainly companion dogs, they are extremely loving and affectionate towards their 'hoomans' but can be weary of strangers and can potentially make quite a noise if they feel threatened by the prospect of intruders! If you want to try and avoid this trait in your terrier, it's best to train and socialize your pup from a young age. These dogs love us so much, that they can be prone to separation anxiety, so it's important that if you have or decide to get this breed, you're around a good portion of the day to keep them happy. You can also place your dog in your home with another animal, such as a cat – as long as they are raised together!
The Yorkshire Terrier got its name from its place of origin and the fact that it is from the Terrier family. The Industrial Revolution not only brought the rise of production lines and factories, but it brought Scottish people to England to work. With them, they brought the Clydesdale or Paisley Terrier, a dog that is now extinct. Experts believe the Paisley was used to catch rats in the factories and mills. The Paisley was crossed with other Terriers such as the English Black and Tan Toy Terrier and the Skye Terrier. A long-haired Terrier with a blue-grey coat known as the Waterside Terrier may have also been crossbred. The father of the modern Yorkshire Terrier, Huddersfield Ben, became a popular show dog in the late 1800s. The Yorkie was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.