Height: averages 9 inches Size: Very Small
Weight: up to 7 pounds Availability: Very popular
History:
There seem to be two different stories about the Yorkshire Terrier's origins. The first states that the breed was brought to Yorkshire, England by Scottish weavers emigrating to England in the mid-nineteenth century. The second states that the Yorkshire Terrier was developed by English miners in the 1800's to help control the rat population in mine shafts. According to the second story, the Yorkie probably resulted from crosses between the Dandie Dinmont, Skye Terrier, black and tan toy terrier and the Maltese. The new breed was originally called the Scotch Terrier. This game little dog was also pitted against rats for the miners' entertainment. Later he became a favorite companion of well-to-do women who carried the tiny dogs in their bags or under their arms. Though 19th century terrier aficionados thought the breed's future was dim, the Yorkie has become one of the most popular breeds. Today this spunky little dog is both a lively companion and a glamorous show dog.
Description:
A vigorous small dog with a long, profuse silky, steel blue and gold coat. Puppies are born black with tan points and generally come into their adult coat after about one year. The full adult coat is parted down the middle of the spine and hangs down long enough to touch the ground. The delicate head is flat, with a medium length muzzle topped by a cute black button nose. The eyes are bright and dark with dark rims. The ears are small, erect and triangular. Hair on the ears is dark. The tail is docked to half its original length.
Notes:
*The very tiny "teacup" Yorkies often have serious health and behavior problems.
*The soft teeth tend to be prone to decay and weakness. Inspect and clean teeth regularly. Be sure to feed dry food to help keep teeth strong and clean.
*Prone to slipped stifle (a condition which occurs when the kneelike joint above the hock in the hind leg of a dog slips and may require surgery) and eye infections.
*Avoid puppy mill and pet shop Yorkies, as these animals may be misporportioned.
Personality:
Spirited and willful. Self-confident. Affectionate and very loveable. Highly energetic and bustling. Brave and clever. Demanding and dependant. Needs companionship. Can be snappish if frightened, surprised or overteased.
Behavior:
Children - Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness - Reserved with strangers.
Trainability - Slightly difficult to train.
Independence - Needs people a lot.
Noise - Likes to bark.
Grooming - Regular grooming needed.
Coat - Long coat.
Exercise - Very little exercise needed.
Apartments - Good for apartment living; very active indoors.
Climate - Prefers warm climates.
Owner - Good for novice owners.
Longevity - Moderately long-lived (12 to 15 years).
Talents:
Watchdog.
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