(Yorkie) The Yorkshire Terrier is a long-haired toy terrier with a well-proportioned body and a clean, compact appearance. They carry themselves proudly and exude an aura of self-confidence and vigor. They have a comparatively short back and a level back line. The height at the dog’s rump is approximately the same as the height at the dog’s shoulders. The breed’s hind legs are straight when viewed from behind, but their stifles are noticeably bent when viewed from the profile angle. Their forelegs are straight, and their elbows stick neither in nor out. Feet of this breed are round and feature a set of black toenails. The Yorkshire Terrier has a small head with a top that is nearly flat. Their skull is slightly rounded, not too prominent, and features a well-proportioned muzzle. Their sound teeth close in a scissors or level bite and their nose is black in color. They have dark, sparkling eyes and a pair of small, V-shaped ears that are carried erect. The coat of the Yorkshire Terrier is glossy, silky, and fine in texture. The hair across the dog’s body is comparatively long and absolutely straight. The hair is parted on the dog’s face from the base of the dog’s skull to the end of the tail. Hair should hang down evenly on both sides of the dog’s body. The hair on the muzzle is very long. The coat color for this breed is steel blue across the dog’s body and tail and tan everywhere else. Puppies are usually born black and tan. Tails of this breed are customarily docked to half of their original length.

Coat color on the head should be a clear gold, to match breed standards. Some Yorkies hair tends to gray as they age. Some will turn completely gray over time.

Character

The Yorkshire Terrier has a big personality, despite its small size. They are mischievous, spunky, and they seek out opportunities for adventure. They are full of energy and courage, and they are very loyal, clever, and determined. While they are sometimes leery of strangers, they are very affectionate with members of their own family. They do not like to be teased or pestered, and they generally get along best with older, more considerate children. They can get snappish if they are frightened or surprised. Like many other terrier breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier can be aggressive towards strange dogs and small animals. While this breed can sometimes be a bit stubborn, they are generally responsive to commands and easy to train. They like to bark, but they can easily be taught not to do so.

The Yorkshire Terrier is very friendly with children, likes to be taken on walks and likes to play games with owner. They are very intelligent and do well with all types of training. The Yorkshire Terrier is also very good in training.

History

The Yorkshire Terrier is a breed that is approximately 100 years old. Its specific origins are unknown. This is likely due to the fact that the breed was produced by a group of English working men who refrained from giving away the secret to their breeding success. These working men of north England created the Yorkshire Terrier to hunt rats in mine shafts and dig into badger and fox burrows. It’s also probable that Scotsmen seeking work in the mills of Yorkshire brought various types of terriers with them. Such terriers included the Skye Terrier and the Clydesdale Terrier (now extinct). These breeds were crossed with several local breeds like the long-haired Leeds Terrier. Many believe the Maltese, the Black and Tan Manchester, and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier may have also contributed to the breed’s development. The original Yorkshire Terrier was much bigger than the version we see today. Selective breeding has produced a Yorkshire Terrier that is much smaller in size. The first specimen that exhibited the characteristics demanded by its contemporary standard was shown in 1870.

Maintenance

The long-haired, silky coat of the Yorkshire Terrier needs regular grooming. Clipped coats should be brushed and combed on an almost daily basis. This breed’s teeth should be cleaned frequently. The Yorkshire Terrier is a minimal shedder.

Ideal Environment

The Yorkshire Terrier is well-suited to life in a small household or apartment. They are a very active breed indoors, and they do not require a yard. This breed will benefit from regular physical activity and exercise, and they enjoy having the opportunity to run around and play. This breed is sensitive to harsh weather conditions and prefers a warmer climate.

They need an occasionally walks. They are good in apartment living. Even though they look like they can handle all types of weather they prefer a warm climate. Although small in size, they tolerate cold weather conditions well. If they are kept in long coat, hot climates are less well tolerated.