Yorkshire Terrier
The Spirited Lap Dog
Yorkshire Terriers are small but feisty dogs with big personalities. Despite their tiny size, they're brave, affectionate, and make excellent companions for those who want a portable but lively pet.
Why Yorkies Pack Big Personalities in Small Packages
Perfect for Apartments
Their tiny size makes Yorkies ideal for apartment living. They need minimal space and can get much of their exercise indoors.
Loving Companions
Yorkies bond closely with their owners. They're affectionate lap dogs who love to cuddle and be near their favorite people.
Low-Shedding Coat
Their hair-like coat sheds minimally, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming keeps them looking their best.
Spirited & Brave
Don't let their size fool you - Yorkies are confident and fearless. They make surprisingly good little watchdogs.
Pros
- Very small and portable
- Low-shedding coat
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Affectionate and loyal
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Can be yappy if not trained
- Fragile - not ideal for rough play
- May not be suitable for families with young children
- Can be difficult to house train
Care Requirements
What you need to know to keep your Yorkshire Terrier healthy and happy
Exercise
30 minutes daily
Yorkies need moderate exercise - short walks and indoor play. About 30 minutes daily is usually sufficient. They enjoy exploring but tire easily.
Grooming
Daily brushing, professional grooming every 4-6 weeks
Their long coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. Many owners keep them in a 'puppy cut' for easier maintenance.
Nutrition
Tiny dogs need small, frequent meals. Feed high-quality food appropriate for small breeds - typically 1/4 to 1/2 cup daily divided into 2-3 meals.
Training Timeline
House Training Start
Begin house training immediately - be patient as Yorkies can be challenging to train. Crate training helps. Start basic commands.
Socialization
Continue socialization with people and gentle dogs. Their small size makes them vulnerable, so supervise all interactions carefully.
Behavior Training
Address any barking or nipping behaviors. Yorkies can develop 'small dog syndrome' without proper guidance.
Ongoing Training
Continue reinforcing training. Yorkies are smart and can learn tricks. Mental stimulation helps prevent behavioral issues.
Health Information
Common health concerns and prevention tips for Yorkshire Terrier
Common Health Issues
- Dental problems and tooth loss
- Patellar luxation (knee issues)
- Collapsed trachea
- Eye problems
- Hypoglycemia in puppies
Prevention Tips
- Regular dental care and brushing
- Use harness instead of collar to protect trachea
- Regular vet checkups
- Feed small frequent meals to prevent hypoglycemia
- Monitor for eye irritation and problems
Ready to Meet Your Yorkshire Terrier?
We've got everything you need to prepare for your new Yorkshire Terrier
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