Quick Answer: Yorkshire Terriers are among the most popular toy breeds in America — and among the most misunderstood. They're terriers, which means bold, tenacious, curious, and opinionated. They were bred to hunt rats in textile mills. That working dog history means they're not simply lap ornaments — they need training, enrichment, and engagement just as much as larger breeds.
The Coat — Fine, Long, and Demanding
The Yorkie coat is silky and human-like — it grows continuously and doesn't shed but tangles and mats aggressively without regular care. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for most pets, or daily brushing for longer coats. Most Yorkie owners opt for a shorter 'puppy cut' for practicality. A frozen lick mat makes brushing sessions peaceful.
Dental Health Is Critical
Like all small breeds, Yorkies have crowded small mouths where dental disease develops rapidly. Daily tooth brushing is essential. Without it, significant periodontal disease by age 3 is common. Professional dental cleaning under anesthetic every 1-2 years. Rope toys and dental chews between brushings help.
Don't Skip Training Because They're Small
A Yorkie who bites, barks, and guards is a training failure, not a breed characteristic. Apply consistent positive reinforcement training exactly as you would for a larger dog. Short 5-minute sessions with high-value treats. A frozen lick mat after sessions reinforces the positive association with working with you.
Health Watch List
- Collapsed trachea — cough when collar pressure is applied. Use a harness, not a collar.
- Patellar luxation — kneecap dislocation, very common in small breeds
- Portosystemic shunt — liver condition, more common in Yorkies
- Hypoglycemia — small puppies especially, low blood sugar risk
Recommended Product
Lightweight harness instead of collar for Yorkies with tracheal sensitivity. See all Walking Essentials.
Related Questions
- Is a harness better than a collar?
- How to keep your dog's teeth clean
- Positive reinforcement vs punishment
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