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Yorkshire Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Yorkshire Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank9
Reviews4
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Yorkshire Terrier dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Other Names
What other names does the Yorkshire Terrier have?
Yorkie
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred The Yorkshire Terrier is considered a purebred dog breed, but many mixes and hybrids have been created from this breed. We have compiled a list of Yorkie Mixes.

Yorkshire Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is a Yorkshire Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Yorkshire Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Yorkshire Terrier?

Small
Weight
How much does the Yorkshire Terrier weigh? How much should a Yorkshire Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Yorkshire Terrier? How much does a full-grown Yorkshire Terrier weight?
2-3 kg (4-7 pounds)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Yorkshire Terrier?
2.5 kg (5.5 pounds)
Height
How tall is the Yorkshire Terrier? Yorkshire Terrier height:
20-23 cm (8-9 inches)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Yorkshire Terrier?
21.5 cm (8.5 inches)

Yorkshire Terrier Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Yorkshire Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Yorkshire Terrier in the United States? How much money is a Yorkshire Terrier?

Where to buy a Yorkshire Terrier with a good pedigree?

$600-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Yorkshire Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Yorkshire Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Yorkshire Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Yorkshire Terrier? How many Yorkshire Terrier are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Yorkshire Terrier is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Yorkshire Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Yorkshire Terrier? Is the Yorkshire Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Yorkshire Terrier dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Yorkshire Terrier is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Yorkshire Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Yorkshire Terrier?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Yorkshire Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Yorkshire Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Yorkshire Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Yorkshire Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulIndependentEnergeticAlertCourageousIntelligentLoyal
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Yorkshire Terrier sensitivity:
Sensitive: Yorkshire Terrier dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Yorkshire Terrier a good family dog?
High: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Yorkie need? Yorkshire Terrier social needs:
Yorkshire Terrier dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Yorkshire Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Yorkshire Terrier roam?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Yorkshire Terrier have high prey drive?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.

Yorkshire Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Yorkshire Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Yorkie bark?
A lot: Yorkshire Terrier is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Yorkshire Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Yorkshire Terrier in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the Yorkshire Terrier breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Yorkshire Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Yorkshire Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Yorkshire Terrier alone?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Yorkshire Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Yorkshire Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Yorkshire Terrier? How much bite force does a Yorkshire Terrier have? How strong is a Yorkshire Terrier bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Yorkshire Terrier bite force: Weak. The Yorkshire Terrier bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Yorkshire Terrier measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Yorkshire Terrier may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Yorkshire Terrier being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Yorkshire Terrier bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Yorkshire Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Yorkshire Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Yorkshire Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Yorkie? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Yorkshire Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Yorkshire Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Yorkshire Terrier do?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Yorkshire Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Yorkshire Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Yorkshire Terriers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Yorkshire Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Yorkshire Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Yorkshire Terrier:
Collapsed TracheaPatellar LuxationProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Portosystemic Liver ShuntReverse SneezingHypoglycemia
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Yorkshire Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Yorkshire Terrier see the vet?
Rare
The Yorkshire Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Yorkshire Terrier dogs live? How old can a Yorkshire Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Yorkshire Terrier? How many years can the oldest Yorkshire Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier?

12-16 years
The average lifespan of Yorkshire Terrier: 14 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.

Yorkshire Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Yorkshire Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Yorkshire Terrier?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need? How much exercise do Yorkshire Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Yorkshire Terrier dogs exercise need is very minimal. If you live a lazy life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Yorkshire Terrier breed need?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Yorkshire Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Yorkshire Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Yorkshire Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Yorkshire Terrier? How much food should I feed my Yorkshire Terrier?
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 3/4 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Yorkshire Terrier risk for obesity:
Low to Average: The Yorkshire Terrier has a low to the average risk for obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Yorkshire Terrier weight regularly.

Yorkshire Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Yorkshire Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Fine
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Yorkshire Terrier coats?
BlackTan Blue Gold
Grooming
How to groom the Yorkshire Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Yorkshire Terrier to the groomer?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. The Yorkshire Terrier requires grooming on a daily basis.

Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer is essential. Everyday brushing of the dog's coat is necessary to reduce shedding.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath should be on a weekly schedule.

Taking good care of your Yorkshire Terrier is time-consuming and requires excellent grooming skills. If you don't have the time and skill search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Yorkshire Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Yorkie? Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Yorkshire Terrier dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Yorkshire Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Yorkshire Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Yorkshire Terrier every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Yorkshire Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
Yes
Yorkshire Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Yorkshire Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Yorkshire Terrier drool?
The Yorkshire Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Yorkshire Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Yorkshire Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Yorkshire Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Yorkshire Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Yorkshire Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Yorkshire Terrier temperament with other people:
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Yorkshire Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Yorkshire Terrier temperament with children:
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not kid-friendly dogs. This breed is not recommended for families with children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Yorkshire Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Yorkshire Terrier breed live with a cat?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Yorkshire Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Yorkshire Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Yorkshire Terrier is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Yorkshire Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Yorkshire Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Yorkshire Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Yorkshire Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Yorkshire Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Yorkshire Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Yorkie temperament with senior people? Are Yorkshire Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Yorkshire Terriers are not recommended for elderly people.

Yorkshire Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Yorkshire Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Yorkshire Terrier be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Yorkshire Terrier breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Yorkshire Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Yorkshire Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a boat dog?

Not really

Yorkshire Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Yorkshire Terrier be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Yorkshire Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Yorkshire Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Yorkshire Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Yorkshire Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Yorkshire Terrier breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Yorkshire Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Yorkshire Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Yorkshire Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Yorkshire Terrier have? How many puppies can a Yorkshire Terrier give birth to?
4-6 puppies

Yorkshire Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Yorkshire Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a Toy breed.
FCI Group
Is Yorkshire Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Toy Terriers section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Yorkshire Terrier breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Yorkshire Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Yorkshire Terrier dogs have great intelligence.
  • Health Issues: Yorkshire Terriers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Hypoallergenic: Yorkshire Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the Yorkshire Terrier breed.
  • Shedding Level: Yorkshire Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Yorkshire Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Low to Average: The Yorkshire Terrier has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Watchdog Ability: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Yorkshire Terrier dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Yorkshire Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Cat Friendly: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
Cons
  • Grooming: Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Yorkshire Terrier dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Child Friendly: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Yorkshire Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Yorkshire Terriers are not recommended for elderly people.

Yorkshire Terrier History

Yorkshire Terrier, commonly called Yorkies, are little dogs with tenacious personalities and they are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. The breed can be traced back to the migration of weavers from Scotland to Yorkshire, England in the mid-19th century.

In the mid-1800s, England was at the top of the Industrial Revolution. Many miners and mill workers from Scotland traveled to England looking for work. Eventually, these laborers have found work in Yorkshire and brought their small terrier dogs along with them. Among them were Paisley, Clydesdale, Skye, and Waterside Terriers. Moreover, those breeds were mixed with the Manchester terriers, Broken-Haired Terriers, and the Rough-Coated Toy Terriers. The mixes were commonly referred to as Broken Haired Scotch Terrier but were eventually renamed Yorkshire Terriers after the County they originated from. In 1874 the breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in a studbook, but it wasn’t until 1885 that they were officially recognized as a separate breed.

Furthermore, the early Yorkshire Terriers, and the terriers that made up the Yorkie breed, were mostly used to rid homes and clothing mills of rats. However, the workers enjoyed using the Yorkies for entertainment by filling a small pit with several rats and taking bets on how many rats their terrier could kill within a specific time limit. Besides hunting rats, the Yorkshire Terrier did much more than that. The breed was very skilled at hunting down animals that lived in dens and burrows hidden on the forest floor. Hunters would carry the Yorkie in their pockets as they headed out to hunt for foxes, badgers, and other small to medium-sized wild animals. Therefore, the breed became well known for their bravery and courage to go after their prey without hesitation and to do so with much success. However, in 1859 when the very first dog show was held, it changed the course of history for what the Yorkshire Terrier would be known for from that point on. As word spread, wealthy women caught the eye on these beautiful dogs in show form, and the purpose for breeding them changed from rat dogs to lapdogs. Owners began breeding for longer and silkier coats, smaller sizes, and striking coloring in hopes of selling them to the wealthy. Huddersfield Ben, “the father of the breed”, was arguably the most famous Yorkshire Terrier in history. He was named after the town in which he was born, Huddersfield, in the county of Yorkshire. This dog was owned by a man named M.A. Foster and in the late 1860s, he was seen throughout Great Britain in several dogs show and Ratter contests. Huddersfield Ben was the most sought-after stud dog. While he himself was considered to be rather large at 11 pounds, he was known to consistently produce litters of dogs that were under 5 pounds and dogs that fit the breed standard at the time. People went wild for the looks of this show-winning dog, and the demand for them began to increase. Unfortunately, during the 1940s the popularity of the breed began to drop but there was one famous Yorkie at that time known as Smokey. Smokey was a famous dog who was considered quite a hero as she served with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific. Her notable service brought this breed back into the mainstream. American William Wynne found Smokey in a shell hole near the Japanese lines in New Guinea. She became part of the troop, going on over 150 air raids and 12 sea missions. Her courage was great and she hailed for surviving a treacherous typhoon at Okinawa. While serving with her American troops, she quickly learned amusing tricks which not only entertained the troops but also enabled her to help the Signal Corps by carrying a telegraph wire through a 70 foot, 8-inch pipe. Smokey also jumped from a 30-foot tower with a parachute made just for her. After the war, she spent ten years entertaining millions of people on live television and in live performances with her incredible tricks that she had learned throughout her time with Wynne. She was even able to walk a tightrope while blindfolded. She also serves as a therapy dog and provided wonderful entertainment in the veteran hospitals. Smokey went down as the first therapy dog on record according to an Animal Planet investigation. Furthermore, in the 1960s Audrey Hepburn introduced the Yorkshire Terrier to Hollywood. Her beloved pup, known as Mr. Famous, even appeared with her in one of her films. Her little lap dog sparked the desire for other celebrities to have their own, and the popularity of the breed increased even more. Since that period, they continued to rise on the popularity charts, until they reached the highest point in 2006 boasting the position of the 2nd most popular breed, right after the Labrador Retriever. Since then, they have remained in the top 10 and are currently holding the 9th position. Celebrities such as Tom Brady, Hilary Duff, and Orlando Bloom being just a few that one of these lovable dogs.

Although Yorkies have proven to be compassionate companions and lapdogs for celebrities, they still have a lot of their fierce, and feisty roots buried deep into their DNA. They may have come from several breeds, but they certainly are a breed of their very own with a large personality to go with. The Yorkshire Terrier was also recognized by the AKC in 1885, along with 14 other breeds.

Rate The Yorkshire Terrier Breed

Yorkshire Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Nia

    Feb 25, 2022, 6:44:56 AM:

    Very cute but I wish they were kid friendly

  • Yorkshire Terrior

    Dec 2, 2020, 8:30:32 PM:

    Best small companion dog. Loyal, lap sitter, constant companion. Friendly and devoted.