Yorkshire Terriers

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type, developed during the 19th century in Yorkshire, England. Ideally its maximum size is 7 pounds (3.2 kg). A popular companion dog, the Yorkshire Terrier has also been part of the development of other breeds, such as the Australian Silky Terrier. It has a grey, black and tan coat, and the breed’s nickname is Yorkie.

History

The Yorkshire Terrier (also called a “Yorkie”) originated in Yorkshire, a county in northern England (and the adjoining Lancashire). In the mid-19th century, workers from Scotland came to Yorkshire in search of work and brought with them several different varieties of small terriers.

Coat

For adult Yorkshire Terriers, importance is placed on coat colour, quality and texture. The hair must be glossy, fine, straight and silky. Traditionally the coat is grown out very long and is parted down the middle of the back, but “must never impede movement.”

Features of the Yorkshire Terriers

Yorkshire terrier puppy lying on white background

Health

Health issues often seen in the Yorkshire Terrier include bronchitis, lymphangiectasia, portosystemic shunt, cataracts and keratitis sicca. Additionally, Yorkies often have a delicate digestive system, with vomiting or diarrhoea resulting from consumption of foods outside of a regular diet.

 

Temperament

The ideal Yorkshire Terrier character or “personality” is described with a “carriage very upright feisty” and “conveying an important air”. Though small, the Yorkshire Terrier is active, very overprotective, curious and fond of attention.

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