Yorkie Breed Standards

The ultra long, fine, silky coat parts along the spine and falls straight down on either side. It is steel blue on the body and tail, and tan elsewhere. Puppies are usually black & tan. The tail is usually docked to half its length. If the dogs are not for showing, the owners usually go for the shaggy look. The Yorkie has a flat head, medium-sized length muzzle, a black nose, and regular teeth. The eyes are extremely vivacious and the ears are v-shaped, erect or semi-erect. The tail is docked to medium-length and is carried level with its back. Its limbs are straight with round feet and black nails. The hair on the head is so abundant that it is almost always necessary to gather it in a band to keep from going into the dog's food bowl and to give the animal maximum visibility. Some owners choose to trim the hair on top of the head.

Temperament

The Yorkshire Terrier seems oblivious of its small size. It is ever eager for adventure and trouble. This little dog is highly energetic, brave, loyal and clever. Affectionate with its master, but sometimes suspicious of strangers. It can be aggressive to strange dogs and small animals. In other words, it has true Terrier heritage. They do best with older, considerate children. Yorkies are easy to train, although they can sometimes be stubborn. The breed is demanding and dependent and needs a lot of human attention. The Yorkie is an excellent watchdog, defending its territory in no uncertain manner. They can get snappish if surprised, frightened or over-teased, but are usually very sweet and loving. They can be difficult to housebreak. These little dogs should not be over-protected, for they may become neurotic. The Yorkie likes to bark, but it can easily be taught not to do so.

Height, Weight

Height:  6-7 inches

Weight: 3-7 pounds

Health Problems

Some Yorkies are prone to bronchitis and early tooth decay, poor tolerance of anesthetic, and delicate digestion. Exotic treats should be avoided. They sometimes suffer paralysis in the hindquarters caused by herniated disks and other problems of the spine. Falls or knocks can cause fractures of fragile bones. Abnormal skull formations in Yorkies measuring less then 8 inches (20cm). The very tiny "teacup" Yorkies often have serious health and behavioral problems. Be sure to feed Yorkies dry food (canned food can be added) to help keep their teeth clean and strong. They should get their teeth cleaned at the Vet to keep them from falling out and creating infection.

Living Conditions

The Yorkie is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. The Yorkie is sensitive to the cold and prefers warm climates.

Exercise

The Yorkshire Terrier is a lively little warrior that does not need a lot of exercise. Although it will benefit from regular opportunities to run and play.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years

Grooming

Regular grooming is needed. A clipped coat needs daily to weekly combing and brushing. Topknot is usually tied back with ribbon. Full show coats need hours of grooming. They should have their teeth cleaned regularly. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Origin

The breed is only 100 years old or so, but its origins are not entirely certain - probably because the working men of north England, who developed the Yorkshire Terrier for catching the terrible rats that infested the mine shafts and as a hunting dog that could penetrate into badger and fox burrows, avoided divulging the secret of their success to those who might have cashed in on a lucrative side line. However, it seems likely that Scotsmen seeking work in the woolen mills of Yorkshire brought with them various types of terrier, including the Skye and the now extinct Clydesdale. These were then crossed with local types, such as the long- haired Leeds Terrier. The Maltese, Black & Tan Manchester, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers may also have contributed blood lines. At first, the Yorkie was a much bigger animal than the one we see today, but by selectively breeding the smallest individuals, the dog was gradually miniaturized over the years. They were made into a fashion dog. Women carried these little dogs in their bags and under their arms. The first Yorkshire, with the characteristics demanded by its standard today, appeared in a dog show in 1870.

Group

Terrier, AKC Toy