The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Yorkie, is a small and adorable dog breed that is beloved by many. Despite its small size, there is so much to love about this little pup – from its spunky personality to its loyalty and loving nature.

In this article, we will explore the history of the Yorkshire Terrier, its physical characteristics, personality traits, and more. Join us as we explore why the Yorkshire Terrier is truly a mighty dog with a big heart.

History

Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred in England in the 19th century as a ratting dog – a dog bred to hunt rats and other small rodents.

They were created by breeding Scottish Terriers with various other terrier breeds, including the Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and the Maltese. The resulting breed was small enough to fit in the pocket of a hunter’s jacket and was easy to carry around while on rat hunts.

In the early days of the breed, Yorkshire Terriers were also used for hunting game and assisting with hunting larger animals like badgers. However, as hunting became less popular, the tiny dogs became more popular as companion pets.

The breed’s popularity increased in the 20th century, and they quickly became some of the most popular show dogs in the world.

Physical Characteristics

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed that typically weighs between 4 and 7 pounds and stands between 6 and 9 inches tall. They have a small and compact body with a short, fine coat that is typically blue and tan in color.

Their fur is silky and shiny, and they are known for their adorable pointed ears that stand tall on top of their head.

One of the most distinctive physical characteristics of the breed is their long, flowing coat. While many people love the way their coat looks when it is long, it can be a challenge to keep clean and well-groomed.

If not taken care of properly, their gorgeous coat can become matted and tangled.

Personality Traits

Despite their small size, Yorkshire Terriers have a big personality. They are spunky, playful, and full of energy, always up for a good game of fetch or a walk around the block.

They are also incredibly loyal and loving to their owners, often forming strong bonds with their human family members.

Like all terriers, the Yorkshire Terrier can be a bit stubborn at times and may try to assert their dominance over other dogs. However, they can be trained with patience and consistency, and most will respond well to positive reinforcement training.

They are also quite intelligent and can learn a variety of tricks and commands.

Health Concerns

As with all dog breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier is prone to a variety of health problems. Some of the most common health issues that Yorkies face include dental problems, eye problems, and knee problems.

Additionally, their small size can make them more susceptible to injury, especially if they are not handled properly or allowed to jump from high surfaces.

To keep your Yorkie healthy, it is important to take them to the vet regularly for check-ups and to stay up to date on their vaccinations.

Additionally, providing them with a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and good dental care can help keep them in good health.

Training and Care

Because of their small size, the Yorkshire Terrier is a great apartment dog and can do well in small spaces. However, they still need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Daily walks or play sessions are recommended to help burn off their energy and keep them mentally stimulated.

Their long coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and it is recommended that they are brushed daily to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Additionally, they will need to be bathed regularly to keep their coat clean and smelling fresh.

Training a Yorkshire Terrier can be a bit of a challenge, as they can be a bit stubborn at times. However, they respond well to positive reinforcement training and are quite intelligent.

Consistency and patience are key when training a Yorkie, and it is important to start training early to prevent behavioral problems from developing.

Final Thoughts

The Yorkshire Terrier is truly a tiny dog with a big heart. They are loyal, loving, and full of personality, making them the perfect companion for those who want a small dog with a big personality.

While they do have their health concerns and require regular grooming, with proper care and attention, your Yorkie can live a long and happy life by your side.