Looking for a tiny pup with a big personality? The Yorkshire Terrier, better known as the Yorkie, may just be your perfect match. This petite powerhouse is as sassy as she is sweet, packing tons of charm, confidence, and affection into a small but spunky frame. Whether you’re living in a studio apartment or a spacious house, the Yorkie’s adaptable nature, combined with their fierce loyalty, makes them one of America’s most beloved toy breeds.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this iconic breed, from temperament and training to grooming needs and beyond.
Quick Breed Facts
| Trait | Info |
|---|---|
| Group | Toy |
| Height | 7-8 inches |
| Weight | Up to 7 lbs |
| Lifespan | 11-15 years |
| Coat Type | Long, silky, straight |
| Shedding Level | Low |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High |
| Good With Kids? | Older children mainly |
| Good With Other Pets? | Sometimes, with proper socialization |
| Trainability | Intelligent but can be stubborn |
Breed Overview
The Yorkshire Terrier is a historic toy breed known for its bold personality, elegant appearance, and silky floor-length coat. Originally bred for catching rats in textile mills and mines during the Industrial Revolution, they’ve now found a place in many homes thanks to their affectionate yet feisty personalities.
Temperament & Personality
The Yorkie may be tiny, but don’t let their size fool you—this breed comes with a huge personality. They’re confident, spirited, and sometimes a little bossy. Often described as “a big dog in a small body,” Yorkies are feisty little watchdogs who won’t hesitate to alert you to every single sound outside the window.
Despite their sass, Yorkies are incredibly affectionate with their people. They form strong bonds with their family and love being the center of attention. Many Yorkies are happiest as lap dogs and will gladly curl up on you for hours.
However, they’re not always the best fit for families with small kids. Due to their delicate size and strong-willed nature, Yorkies do best in homes with older children who know how to respect a dog’s boundaries.
Ideal Home Environment
The perfect home for a Yorkie includes:
- A calm and safe space free from rough play (especially important with small kids)
- Someone home most of the day to provide attention and companionship
- A household that enjoys daily walks and short play sessions
They’re very apartment-friendly and don’t need a yard, but they don’t tolerate solitude well. If you’re away a lot, consider hiring a pet sitter, enrolling them in doggy daycare, or providing interactive toys to help ease separation anxiety.
Hot Tip:
Yorkies may be small, but they’re notorious escape artists! Always supervise outdoor time, and if you have a yard, make sure the fencing is secure with no tiny gaps they can squeeze through.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation Needs
For a toy breed, Yorkies have a surprisingly high energy level. They don’t need a ton of space, but they do need daily walks and indoor playtime to keep their minds and bodies stimulated.
Yorkies love playing fetch, learning tricks, and going on short adventures. Puzzle toys and enrichment activities go a long way in preventing boredom—which, left unchecked, can lead to excessive barking or destructive behaviors.
Just keep in mind that their small size makes them vulnerable in cold weather, so bundle them up during winter walks!
Diet & Feeding Tips
Yorkies may be tiny, but they have big nutritional needs packed into that little body. A high-quality, well-balanced diet is essential to support their energy levels, maintain a healthy coat, and prevent common issues like hypoglycemia (especially in puppies).
Here’s what to keep in mind when feeding a Yorkshire Terrier:
- Choose a small-breed specific dog food: These formulas are designed with the right balance of nutrients and come in smaller kibble sizes that are easier for Yorkies to chew.
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals: Their tiny stomachs do better with 2–3 small meals a day rather than one or two large ones—especially during puppyhood or if they’re very active.
- Watch their weight: Yorkies are prone to dental issues and obesity, so avoid overfeeding and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily calories.
- Prioritize protein and healthy fats: Look for real meat as the first ingredient and avoid filler-heavy foods with corn, soy, or by-products.
Always have fresh water available, and if you’re ever unsure about portions or switching foods, your vet can help you tailor a feeding plan to your Yorkie’s age, weight, and health status.
Hot Tip:
Want a convenient way to make sure you never run out of your Yorkie’s food? Check out our guide to the best dog food delivery services. Most of these services will even help you figure out the perfect diet and feeding routine for your pup.
Grooming & Shedding
The Yorkie’s signature silky coat is stunning—but it’s also high-maintenance. If you keep their hair long, be prepared for daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to keep grooming more manageable.
In addition to brushing:
- Bathe your Yorkie every 2–3 weeks.
- Trim nails regularly.
- Clean ears weekly to prevent infections.
- Brush their teeth daily or several times a week—small breeds are prone to dental issues.
Their low-shedding coat makes them a good choice for people with allergies, but regular grooming is non-negotiable.
Health & Common Issues
Yorkies are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain conditions. Some common issues include:
✅ Dental Disease – Small dogs are more prone to plaque and tartar buildup.
✅ Luxating Patella – A condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
✅ Collapsed Trachea – This causes coughing and breathing issues.
✅ Hypoglycemia – Especially in puppies and very small adults.
✅ Portosystemic Shunt – A liver condition that may require surgery.
Routine vet visits, proper dental care, and a healthy diet go a long way in keeping your Yorkie in tip-top shape.
Training & Socialization
Yorkies are whip-smart little dogs, but they’ve also got a stubborn streak that can make training a bit of a rollercoaster. With the right approach, though, you can absolutely channel that confidence into well-mannered behavior.
Training a Yorkie starts with consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. They respond best to reward-based methods using treats, praise, or play. Harsh corrections or yelling? That’ll just make them dig in their heels—or worse, become fearful.
One area where many Yorkie parents struggle is house training. Because of their small size and sensitive nature, potty training can take longer than with other breeds. Crate training, potty pads, and a set schedule go a long way here. Stick with it and celebrate the wins!
Don’t overlook basic obedience either—commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and especially “quiet” can help curb nuisance barking and boost your Yorkie’s confidence. Keep sessions short and fun to avoid boredom.
Socialization Is a Must
Yorkies have big personalities and aren’t shy about expressing themselves, but without proper socialization, that boldness can turn into bossiness—or fearfulness. Early, positive experiences with other dogs, people, and different environments are key to preventing issues like resource guarding, separation anxiety, or fear-based aggression.
Start socialization young if possible, introducing your Yorkie to:
Friendly dogs of all sizes (supervised, of course)
People of different ages and appearances
Noisy environments like busy streets, parks, and pet stores
Grooming tools and vet handling (touching paws, ears, etc.)
If you’re adopting an older Yorkie, socialization is still possible—it just may take more time and a gentler approach.
Hot Tip:
Because Yorkies are so bonded to their humans, they may become overly clingy or develop separation anxiety if not gently encouraged to be confident on their own. Practice leaving them alone for short periods and work your way up.
With consistent training and thoughtful socialization, your Yorkie can grow into a polite, well-adjusted pup with just the right amount of sass.
Are Yorkies Good for Families?
Yorkies can make wonderful family companions—but whether they’re the right fit depends a lot on your family’s lifestyle and the age of your children.
These tiny terriers are affectionate, loyal, and love being part of the action. They thrive on attention and enjoy being involved in whatever their humans are doing—whether it’s snuggling on the couch or following you from room to room like a furry little shadow.
That said, they’re generally best suited for families with older children. Due to their small size and delicate build, Yorkies can easily be injured by rough handling or accidental tumbles, which are more common with toddlers and very young kids. They may also become snappy if they feel threatened or overwhelmed, especially if they haven’t been properly socialized.
In the right environment—one where everyone respects their space and treats them gently—Yorkies can be deeply loving and loyal family pets. They’re also great for singles, couples, and retirees looking for a lap dog with personality to spare.
If you do have younger children and your heart is set on a Yorkie, supervision and teaching respectful dog interaction from day one are absolutely essential. And as always, adopting a dog whose temperament matches your family dynamic is key to long-term harmony.
How Much Does a Yorkie Cost?
| Cost Type | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase/Adoption | $500–$3,500 |
| Food (monthly) | $20–$40 |
| Vet Bills | $300–$800 per year |
| Grooming | $50–$80 per visit or DIY |
Similar Breeds to Consider
If you’re not 100% sold on the Yorkshire Terrier, check out these similar breeds:
- Maltese – Another elegant toy breed with a long, flowing coat. Maltese dogs are gentle, affectionate, and slightly less feisty than Yorkies.
- Toy Poodle – Highly intelligent and hypoallergenic, Toy Poodles are easy to train and great for families looking for a brainy little companion.
- Papillon – A bit more energetic and outgoing, the Papillon shares the Yorkie’s bold personality but tends to be more adaptable with kids and other pets.
Fun Facts About Yorkies
- The Yorkie was originally bred to catch rats in textile mills in England.
- Despite their dainty looks, they’re surprisingly tough and courageous.
- Audrey Hepburn’s Yorkie, Mr. Famous, helped make the breed a Hollywood darling.
- The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1885.
Is a Yorkie Right for You?
✅ Choose a Yorkie if:
-
You want a loyal, loving companion who loves to be with you 24/7.
-
You live in a small space or apartment.
-
You’re ready for regular grooming sessions or professional upkeep.
🚫 Skip the Yorkie if:
-
You’re looking for a super low-maintenance dog.
-
You have very young children who may accidentally injure a tiny pup.
-
You’re easily overwhelmed by a dog who barks at everything that moves.
FAQs
Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?
Yes, Yorkies are considered hypoallergenic—or at least as close as a dog can get. They have hair instead of fur, which means they shed very little and produce less dander, one of the main triggers for dog allergies.
Do Yorkies bark a lot?
Do Yorkies shed?
Not much! Yorkies have hair instead of fur, so they shed very little. This makes them a popular choice for allergy sufferers—as long as you’re okay with frequent grooming.
