Nowadays, it is one of the most beloved breeds worldwide. In fact, in the United States it ranks ninth among the most popular breeds, according to the American Kennel Club. And it has actually been part of our lives for a long time, having first been seen around 1850.
The Yorkshire Terrier comes from the same place as the Airedale Terrier. The old Black and Tan Terrier lies behind the Yorkshire Terrier, along with other breeds such as the Maltese and the Skye Terrier. The current name was accepted in 1870. Breeds with terrier qualities have a certain hunting instinct.
What are Yorkshire Terriers like?
Above all, they are one of the most recognizable and popular breeds. When you look at them, it is impossible not to smile. They have a small, compact and level body (they weigh an average of 3.2 kilos), but how much vigor and energy they contain! They also possess a natural elegance; when they walk, they carry themselves upright, giving them an irresistible air of importance.
Their coat is also one of their most distinctive features. It covers their entire body and is moderately long, hanging, completely straight and even on both sides of the body, with a parting that runs from the nose to the tail, as if someone had drawn it perfectly by hand, using a set square and ruler. It is also fine, shiny and silky. Its color is usually an intense golden tan, darker on the sides of the head, at the base of the ears and over the muzzle.
Speaking of the muzzle, it is not too long and is crowned by a black nose. It has a uniform, regular and complete scissor bite, meaning that the upper incisors fall exactly in front of the lower ones. This undoubtedly contributes to making their smile so distinctive. Just like their gaze, dark, bright, steady, so intelligent and empathetic. It is incredible how they are able to connect with everyone with just one look!
Their ears are small, V-shaped, erect, not widely spaced and covered with short hair. They are an intense, very dark tan color. Their tail also has quite a lot of hair and is darker than the rest of the body, especially at the tip.
What is the temperament of Yorkshire Terriers like?
They are almost always alert. In addition, they are intelligent, lively and well-balanced. However, some of them can be a little irritable or cantankerous around strangers —especially as they grow older. They are perfect companions, small but with hearts that, quite literally, are too big for their chests.
Moreover, their cheerful, affectionate, playful, highly intelligent, quick-learning and loyal nature makes Yorkshire Terriers key participants in certain assisted therapies. Their physical characteristics also contribute to this, as they support sensory stimulation for people with total or partial paralysis, rare diseases and much more.
How should you care for Yorkshire Terriers?
Healthy dogs can live with us for nearly 15 years. That is, indeed, a whole lifetime. However, it should be remembered that because of their small size, they are much more vulnerable to falls, and greater care must be taken when they interact with other dogs…
The smallest specimens (such as Small Yorkies, Toy, Mini, Micro, Super Miniature, Bonsai and Teacup…) come with some very special considerations. They are extremely susceptible to inherited health problems. Costly tests are often necessary before, for example, a dental cleaning or surgery because, due to their small size, they are more likely to have adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Now that you know Yorkshire Terriers better, we encourage you to learn about other equally wonderful breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Schnauzers and «Westies».