Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a wonderfully energetic toy dog that originated in Scotland and was later brought to England. These dogs are believed to have evolved from a combination of other terrier breeds.

The Yorkshire Terrier is a fine boned little dog that weighs between three and five pounds, but not to exceed seven pounds. The Yorkie's coat is his crowning glory; it's very long and silky when kept in proper condition. The AKC standard governing color on this breed is very specific and requires a dark steel blue on the main body and clear gold on the face, chest and legs. The hair on the head may be tied up in a single or double top knot. Ears are pricked, and the stubby tail is held high when the dog is moving.

While these dogs are quite tiny, they don't seem to be aware of that fact. Yorkies have true Terrier temperaments and therefore have the heart of a lion. Yorkies are very adventurous, will chase anything that resembles a rodent, and are known to be prolific climbers to the point of scaling four-foot-high chain link fences.

To their human companions, Yorkshire Terriers are very affectionate and devoted, and they enjoy many hours spent snuggling or in play. However, their treatment of other dogs, whether of their own breed or another, can be a little aggressive. Yorkies are highly territorial as many Terriers can be, and they will scrap to defend anything they perceive as one of their possessions. This inclination varies in strength for each individual, but it's a mainstay of the breed's temperament. This territorial nature leads to more barking than some other breeds.

While Yorkshire Terriers make wonderful pets for adults and older children, their physical delicacy does not make them ideal companions for young children who may accidentally injure their pets.

Since Yorkshire Terriers are highly territorial, there is a greater tendency to mark their territory; this means they may sprinkle around the house. Once this behavior begins, it is extremely hard to curb. Great diligence is required for potty training, and males are a little more difficult to train than females. It is a good idea to provide a spot for newspaper or Wee Wee Pads.

Yorkies are also very intelligent, and they can quickly learn to do anything they actually want to do. So, obedience training and agility training are both terrific options for owners and dogs to pursue. The sight of a Yorkie flying over a jump is truly a sight to behold.

Yorkies require a good deal of grooming if you intend to keep them in long coat. Even though the coat is long, it does not carry the type of thick undercoat that a Shih Tzu has, so matting is minimal. A weekly bath and daily brushing will keep them in decent condition. The hair on the head should be tied up out of the dog's eyes with a small rubber band. A bow is not required, but it's part of the fun of owning one of these glamorous little canines. Keep the hair around the feet and anus trimmed.

Yorkies can be kept in a shorter trim much like a puppy coat. This eliminates the need for a top knot. Keep the toe nails short, and remember to check nails on the dew claws if they haven't been removed. The coat tends to hide them, and they can grow around and into the Yorkie's pads if forgotten.

Yorkies are generally robust little dogs, but the breed has experienced a rise in certain health disorders. Congenital liver shunts, hypothyroidism and renal displaysia are the main problems facing the breed today, although diligent breeders are working hard to identify afflicted dogs in their kennels and eliminate them from their breeding programs.

Due to the tiny size of their lungs, Yorkies are also not terrific candidates for anesthesia and must be carefully monitored.

• The average life span of a Yorkshire Terrier is twelve to fifteen years.
• Average litter size is two to three puppies.
• Average price for a pet puppy is approximately $600.00.

• Yorkshire Terrier Club of America

If the Yorkie seems like the right dog for your lifestyle, visit several reputable breeders or rescue shelters so you can get to know the breed better.

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