Answers for Every Dog Problem.

Home › Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier: The Complete Breed Guide

The Yorkshire Terrier packs more attitude per pound than any breed alive. At 4-7 pounds, this tiny terrier has the confidence of a dog ten times its size -- and it will not hesitate to prove it. Originally bred in 19th-century Yorkshire, England, to catch rats in textile mills, the Yorkie has evolved from a working-class ratter into one of the most popular companion breeds in the world.

Do not let the silk coat and bow fool you. Underneath that glamorous exterior is a true terrier -- bold, feisty, tenacious, and fiercely loyal to its person. Yorkies are hypoallergenic (hair, not fur), travel easily, and live a long time. But they are also fragile, prone to dental disease, and not the right choice for households with rough-playing young children. This guide covers the real deal -- no sugar-coating.

Yorkshire Terrier Quick Facts

BreedYorkshire Terrier
Other namesYorkie
Size7-8 inches, 4-7 lbs
Lifespan11-15 years
CoatLong, silky hair (not fur) -- hypoallergenic
TemperamentBold, feisty, loyal, affectionate
ExerciseLow to moderate -- 30-60 minutes daily
Good with kidsOlder children only -- too fragile for toddlers
TrainabilityModerate -- intelligent but stubborn terrier streak
AKC GroupToy

Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right for You?

A Yorkie might be right if you:

  • Have allergies and need a low-shedding breed
  • Live in an apartment or small space
  • Want a portable, travel-friendly companion
  • Enjoy grooming and coat maintenance
  • Want a long-lived, loyal little dog
  • Are home frequently and can provide companionship

A Yorkie might not be right if you:

  • Have toddlers or rough-playing young children
  • Want a low-maintenance, wash-and-go dog
  • Are not willing to commit to daily dental care
  • Want a dog that can handle rough outdoor adventures
  • Are looking for a quiet dog (Yorkies are vocal)
  • Are tempted by "teacup" Yorkies (avoid -- health risks are severe)

The "Teacup" Warning

There is no such thing as a "teacup" Yorkshire Terrier. It is not a recognized size or variety -- it is a marketing term for undersized dogs. Yorkies bred to be under 4 pounds face significantly higher risks of hypoglycemia, liver shunts, collapsed trachea, and fragile bones. Many do not live past age 5. Responsible breeders do not intentionally breed for extreme small size. If a breeder advertises "teacup" Yorkies, walk away.

Is your Yorkie at a healthy weight?

Even half a pound of extra weight is significant on a 5-pound dog. Keep your Yorkie lean for joint health and longevity.

Weight Calculator

Find a Yorkshire Terrier Breeder

Dedicated, single-breed breeders. Want to be listed here? Add your kennel.

+

List Your Kennel Here

Are you a dedicated Yorkshire Terrier breeder? Add your kennel to our directory for free.

Add Your Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Yorkshire Terriers hypoallergenic?
Yorkshire Terriers are considered hypoallergenic because they have hair, not fur. Their coat grows continuously (like human hair) rather than going through shed cycles, which means they produce significantly less dander than most breeds. However, no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic -- all dogs produce some allergens through dander, saliva, and urine. Yorkies are one of the better choices for allergy sufferers, but spend time with one before committing to make sure your allergies can handle it.
Why do Yorkies have so many dental problems?
Yorkshire Terriers are notorious for dental disease. Their small jaws create overcrowding, which traps food and bacteria between teeth. Many Yorkies retain baby teeth that need to be extracted. Without regular dental care, most Yorkies will develop periodontal disease by age 3 -- leading to pain, infection, tooth loss, and potentially heart and kidney damage from bacteria entering the bloodstream. Daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and annual professional cleanings are not optional with this breed.
Are Yorkies good with children?
Yorkshire Terriers are generally not recommended for households with young children (under 6-8 years). At 4-7 pounds, they are fragile -- a toddler dropping, stepping on, or squeezing a Yorkie can cause serious injury or death. Yorkies also tend to be snappy when startled or handled roughly. They can do well with older, gentle children who understand how to handle a tiny dog carefully. If you have young kids and want a small dog, consider a sturdier breed.
How much grooming does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
Yorkie coat maintenance depends on the length you keep it. A full show coat requires daily brushing, regular baths, and meticulous detangling -- it is essentially a part-time job. Most pet owners keep their Yorkie in a "puppy cut" (trimmed short all over), which needs professional grooming every 4-6 weeks and light brushing a few times per week. Either way, you will also need to clean tear stains, trim nails, clean ears, and brush teeth daily. Yorkies are high-maintenance dogs despite their small size.
How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
Yorkshire Terriers have a long lifespan of 11-15 years, with many living to 14-16 years with good care. Common health issues include dental disease (the most prevalent), luxating patellas (kneecaps slipping out of place), collapsed trachea, liver shunts (portosystemic shunt), and hypoglycemia -- especially in very small or "teacup" Yorkies. Avoid breeders selling "teacup" Yorkies -- dogs under 4 pounds have significantly more health problems. A healthy-sized Yorkie from a responsible breeder will live a long, spirited life.