YORKSHIRE TERRIER
APPEARANCE
The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny, fragile looking, and very sweet little dog. He has an eager expression, and small, dainty face, and small, pricked up ears. The coat of the Yorkshire Terrier is fine, glossy, and silky to the touch. The coat is long, and perfectly parted in the middle from the face to the tail, draping down each side of the dog’s body. The coloring of the Yorkshire Terrier is rich tan and steel blue. These dogs weigh in at around 5-7 pounds, and the height is around 7-8 inches.
PERSONALITY
Such is the popularity of the little Yorkshire Terrier that he has the honor of being at the number two position on the AKC breed popularity list. One of the world’s smallest dogs, the Yorkshire Terrier is a cheerful, sociable, and adaptable little creature. Affection and loyal, yet courageous and confident, this is a dog that is suited to both experienced and inexperienced owners. These dogs make great companions and loving pets, with their love for being pampered or cuddling up with their owner.
TRAINING
Training the Yorkshire Terrier shouldn’t prove too much of a problem, as he is very intelligent and quick to learn. Housebreaking, on the other hand, can be quite a different matter. The Yorkshire Terrier can be very possessive of his food and belongings, and some have a tendency to bark too much. These little dogs will certainly bark to raise an alarm, making them effective watchdogs.
EXERCISE
The exercise needs of a Yorkshire Terrier are uncomplicated as it can easily adapt to the activity level of its owners in the same way that it adapts to its surroundings. However, regular opportunities to run and play are quite beneficial to the dog.
SOCIALIZATION
They do tend to get along fine with other pets. When it comes to children they are best suited around older, gentle kids. These are very small dogs that can get easily injured and scared by rough, boisterous children. The Yorkshire Terrier is a versatile creature that is just as happy dashing around the garden and playing as he is cuddling up and getting thoroughly pampered.
GROOMING
Although the coat of the Yorkshire Terrier is silky and lustrous, the grooming requirements are relatively low. For those that like facial furnishings and bows, grooming can take longer, but otherwise the coat simply needs brushing several times a week. The hair around the bottom should be trimmed for hygiene reasons, and you may wish to trim the coat now and again to keep it from trailing on the ground. These dogs are light shedders, so they may be well suited to those with allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Yorkshire Terrier is around 12-15 years, and there are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed. This includes luxating patella, liver problems, inflamed pancreas, low blood sugar, allergies, dental problems, and sensitivity to chemicals and drugs. He does not fare well in cold weather and should be provided with a jumper if out and about in the rain or cold.
HISTORY
The Yorkshire Terrier originates from Great Britain, and in Victorian times became something of a fashion accessory. Originally known as the Scotch Terrier, these little dogs were introduced in the USA in the 1870s, and have gone on to gain enormous popularity as companions and pets. This breed was registered with the AKC in 1936.
