Yorkshire Terrier

Physical Characteristics

The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a small but confident toy breed known for its fine, silky coat and lively personality.

Coat:
Yorkies have a long, straight, silky coat that hangs evenly on each side of the body, parted down the middle of the back. Puppies are born with black and tan coats, which transition to a mature steel blue and tan as they grow. The texture is fine and glossy, similar to human hair, and requires regular grooming.

Face:
They have a small, flat skull with a medium-length muzzle and a black nose. Dark, sparkling eyes are medium-sized and convey intelligence and alertness. The ears are small, V-shaped, and carried erect, adding to the breed’s perky expression.

Body:
Compact and well-proportioned, the Yorkshire Terrier has a level back, straight legs, and a moderate bone structure for its size. The breed is both delicate and sturdy, built for agility and quick movement.

Tail:
Traditionally docked in some regions (where permitted), the tail is carried slightly higher than the level of the back and covered with long hair. In undocked Yorkies, the tail is medium-length, straight, and feathered.

Size:

• Length (Body): Approximately 8 to 9 in (20 to 23 cm) from chest to rump.

• Shoulder Height:

  • Males and Females: 7 to 8 in (18 to 20 cm)

Weight:

• Adult: Up to 7 lbs (3.2 kg), with 4 to 6 lbs (1.8 to 2.7 kg) ideal for the breed standard.

Yorkshire Terriers’ physical characteristics combine toy-sized elegance, fine-textured hair, and a lively, alert expression, making them one of the most glamorous and instantly recognizable small breeds in the world.

Reproduction

The reproductive cycle of the Yorkshire Terrier follows the general domestic dog pattern, but their small size and delicate bone structure require extra caution during breeding, pregnancy, and whelping.

1. Mating and Courtship:
Yorkshire Terriers typically reach sexual maturity between 6 and 9 months, but responsible breeding is delayed until females are at least 18 months old to ensure full physical maturity. Males should also be fully matured before breeding. Pairing should be done carefully to avoid large size differences that could cause birthing complications.

2. Estrus Cycle:
Females generally come into heat twice a year, each cycle lasting about 2–3 weeks. The fertile period usually occurs between days 9–14, though ovulation timing may vary by individual.

3. Gestation:
The gestation period averages 63 days (about 9 weeks). Because of their small size, Yorkshire Terriers should be fed a high-quality, calorie-dense small-breed diet during pregnancy to meet nutritional needs without overfeeding.

4. Birth of Puppies:
Typical litter sizes range from 2 to 5 puppies, though litters of just 1 or 2 are common in first-time mothers. Due to their tiny pelvic size, Yorkies are at a higher risk for dystocia (difficult labor), and cesarean sections are sometimes necessary.

5. Care and Nurturing:
For the first 3–4 weeks, the mother provides warmth, milk, and cleaning. Puppies open their eyes between 10–14 daysand begin walking soon after. Breeders often trim hair around the dam’s underside to help puppies nurse easily.

6. Weaning and Socialization:
Weaning begins at about 4 weeks, gradually transitioning puppies to a soft, nutrient-rich puppy food formulated for small breeds. Socialization between 4–12 weeks is critical to ensure puppies grow into confident, well-adjusted adults.

7. Independence:
By 8–10 weeks, most Yorkie puppies are ready for new homes, though many breeders keep them until 12 weeks to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, which is more common in small breeds.

Because Yorkshire Terriers are prone to hypoglycemia in puppies, dental crowding, patellar luxation, and certain genetic conditions, reputable breeders perform health screenings and manage pregnancies under close veterinary supervision to ensure the safety of both dam and puppies.

Lifespan

Lifespan in the Home Environment:
Yorkshire Terriers typically live 12 to 16 years, with some reaching 17 or even 18 years when given excellent care. Their small size, hardy constitution, and generally active nature contribute to their long life expectancy.

Lifespan in Active or Show Roles:
Yorkies in show or agility roles often benefit from high-quality nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care, which can help maximize their lifespan. However, frequent travel and grooming demands can be stressful if not balanced with rest and mental enrichment.

Common Health Factors Affecting Lifespan:

• Dental Disease: Due to small jaw size and crowded teeth.

• Tracheal Collapse: Weakness of the windpipe causing breathing issues.

• Luxating Patella: Knee instability common in small breeds.

• Hypoglycemia: Particularly in young puppies or very small individuals.

• Portosystemic Shunt: A liver condition that may require surgery.

• Eye Conditions: Such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.

Ways to Maximize Lifespan:

• Provide daily dental care, including toothbrushing and professional cleanings.

• Feed a balanced, small-breed-specific diet to maintain healthy weight and energy.

• Schedule annual veterinary exams, with semiannual checkups for seniors.

• Use harnesses instead of collars to reduce strain on the trachea.

• Avoid dangerous drops or rough handling to protect fragile bones and joints.

With attentive care, Yorkshire Terriers can remain alert, playful, and affectionate well into their senior years, often maintaining their spirited personality long after many other breeds have slowed down.

Eating Habits

Diet:
Yorkshire Terriers do best on a high-quality, small-breed-specific diet that supports their high metabolism, small stomach capacity, and coat health. Food should be rich in lean animal protein (chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, or beef), healthy fats for energy and coat shine, and digestible carbohydrates for steady energy. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for maintaining their silky hair and healthy skin.

Feeding Schedule:

• Puppies (under 6 months): 3–4 small meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia, which small breeds are prone to.

• Adults: 2–3 small meals per day to keep energy levels steady.

• Seniors: 2 smaller meals daily, with calories adjusted to maintain healthy weight and support joint health.

Eating Behavior:
Yorkies can be picky eaters, especially if spoiled with too many treats or table scraps. They prefer fresh-tasting, high-quality food and may reject stale kibble. Because of their small jaws, kibble should be small-sized for easy chewing.

Special Considerations:

• Dental Health: Crowded teeth increase the risk of tartar buildup; crunchy kibble, dental chews, and daily brushing help maintain oral hygiene.

• Weight Control: Even small weight gains can impact their joints and breathing, so portion control is important.

• Hypoglycemia Prevention: Frequent small meals are essential for puppies and very small Yorkies to maintain stable blood sugar.

• Coat Health: Foods rich in fish oil, flaxseed, or biotin promote a glossy coat.

Treats and Extras:
Healthy treat options include blueberries, small apple slices (without seeds), carrots, green beans, and small bits of lean cooked meat. Avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, fatty scraps, and foods high in salt or sugar.

A measured, nutrient-rich feeding routine tailored to their size, metabolism, and grooming needs keeps Yorkshire Terriers energetic, healthy, and looking their best.

Uniqueness

The Yorkshire Terrier is a glamorous yet spirited toy breed that blends elegance with a bold, confident personality:

Origins as a Working Dog:
Despite their refined appearance, Yorkies were originally bred in 19th-century England to hunt rats in textile mills and mines. Their small size, agility, and fearless nature made them excellent vermin hunters.

Signature Silky Coat:
The breed’s long, straight, steel-blue and tan coat is fine like human hair, giving them a unique texture among dogs. This coat grows continuously and requires regular grooming, but it sheds minimally, making them popular with allergy-sensitive owners.

Transformation from Worker to Companion:
Yorkies transitioned from tough working dogs to fashionable companions in Victorian society, gaining a reputation for elegance while keeping their spirited nature.

Big Personality in a Small Package:
Weighing no more than 7 lbs (3.2 kg), they carry themselves with confidence and often behave like much larger dogs. Their alertness and protective instincts make them effective watchdogs despite their size.

Adaptable Lifestyle:
Yorkies thrive in both city apartments and country homes, as long as they receive daily interaction, exercise, and mental stimulation.

Show Ring Royalty:
The breed is a frequent star in dog shows, where their flowing coats and lively gait capture attention and admiration.

Loyal Companionship:
Yorkies form strong attachments to their owners and often prefer being close at all times, making them ideal lap dogs with an adventurous twist.

The Yorkshire Terrier’s combination of beauty, intelligence, and feisty spirit makes it one of the most beloved and instantly recognizable toy breeds worldwide.