The Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed
In the dawn of the 19th century, the Yorkshire Terrier, otherwise known as the Yorkie, was being developed by Scottish weavers who later migrated to England and settled in the Yorkshire area. The Yorkie was initially bred to catch and kill small vermin in their underground dens. It was first registered as a purebred in 1885 and today is one of the most popular breeds of dogs. This intelligent breed comes with a big dog heart and courage, and is glad to act as a watchdog for its owner. The Yorkie needs to be treated like the dog it is, rather than just an adorable toy dog with a pretty coat. They are determined, feisty, and are very curious about the world around them. The Yorkie breed is long lived and healthy, with an expected life span of 12-15 years.
Yorkshire Terrier puppies are born with black and tan markings. As the Yorkie puppy matures, their coats turn to steel blue and gold. Since the Yorkie has hair rather than fur, they are non-shedding and a low-allergy dog. The traditional Yorkshire Terrier has long, silky blue and gold hair that is brushed straight down across its back, while the hair on top of its head is bunched in a topknot with a bow. A Yorkie needs to have regular grooming and a variety of hairstyles, either short or long, can be selected for this elegant breed.
Since the Yorkie is small, they do not need much room to run. They are well suited for small living spaces and can be potty trained to a potty pad, litter box, or outside. They are people dogs and accustom themselves easily to household routines. The exercise a Yorkie gets inside the house is sufficient, although a walk or trip to the park is something they always enjoy.
Care should be taken with Yorkies and very young children. Since Yorkies are small, they could be injured with rough handling. This is especially important with Yorkies puppies or with adult Yorkies who are very small. A larger Yorkie puppy or adult would be preferred for a family with young children. 
According to the AKC Yorkie breed standard the ideal weight for an adult show dog is less than 7 pounds. We do not use the terminology "teacup Yorkie puppy" or "toy Yorkie puppy" when describing unusually tiny Yorkshire Terrier puppies, per the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America's guidelines.  This terminology is ambiguous and can be very misleading to one wishing to purchase a tiny Yorkie puppy.
The intelligent Yorkie breed is great just as a companion dog. However, they can also be trained for many different uses as service dogs. For the owners who wish to compete with their Yorkies, obedience events, agility or flyball competition are available in many parts of the country.
Yorkshire Terriers dogs are well suited for people of all ages.  The wag of a friendly tail and the offering of a paw can bring sunshine into any heart. The brave-hearted Yorkie with its self-assured, important manner could fit into any home where a dog with a lot of spirit is desired. This lively dog will weave its way straight into your heart.
 
 
 

Click here for a short description on some of the known health issues that affect the Yorkshire Terrier.  These are only meant to help you know a little bit about the disease, and not to be used as a diagnosis. Only your vet is qualified to diagnosis your pet.

Click here for a list of common foods and plants that are toxic to dogs.  Please note that this is only a partial list, please consult your Veterinarian for a more complete list.