Thinking of Getting A

Yorkshire Terrier?

When these charming little dogs were first introduced, some breeders were skeptical about Yorkshire Terriers and thought the breed had no future. Wrong. One of the smallest and most fragile of dog breeds, Yorkies continue to win the hearts of dog lovers the world over.

Yorkshire Terrier dogs are believed to have been introduced in Yorkshire County, England in the 19th century by Scottish weavers. The weavers kept them as rat-catcher dogs, to guard fabric and fiber against rodents. As it happens, these little creatures made wonderful travel companions, and they captured the hearts of prim English ladies, who carried them in their arms and handbags.

Economy Sized

The Yorkshire Terrier is a member of the Toy Group of The American Kennel Club. In the show ring, a Yorkie seems to glide over the ground, its long, flowing coat hiding its tiny feet. Although Yorkies can be as small as one pound, most breeders will not try to breed dogs this small, and for good reason. When dogs are bred to be this tiny, health is often sacrificed for size and weight. The AKC calls for the Yorkie to be less than seven pounds, but does not have a minimum weight requirement.

Yorkies usually have long, flowing coats of silver, blue or black hair, with tan on their heads and legs. Yorkie puppies are all born with black and tan coloring. This breed has dark, intelligent eyes.

Apartment-Friendly

The Yorkshire Terrier is an ideal apartment dog. Like all dogs, the Yorkie would enjoy having a yard to romp in, but he can survive without it. In fact, some Yorkshire Terriers do not go out at all. These dogs are litter trained, instead. If you do not take your Yorkie for daily walks, you should look for ways to help him get some exercise, such as playing an indoor game of fetch. If you do have a yard, be sure that there are no gaps under the fence, as Yorkies love to explore. Since these dogs are so small and cute, a Yorkshire Terrier doesn't always have a chance to get back home before a passerby rescues him, thinking the poor little dog is lost or abandoned.

Not Child-Proof

Yorkshire Terriers are sociable little dogs and they enjoy being in the midst of the activity and bustle of family life. They are not a good choice for families with toddlers, though. This is not because Yorkies are untrustworthy with children; its because they are delicate little dogs and can be easily injured. A Yorkshire Terrier with a good temperament might allow children to squeeze, poke and pull on him, but its unfair to subject a little dog to that kind of treatment.

Trainable

Despite the fact that a Yorkie is small, you should still take your puppy to obedience classes. These little guys have a tendency to become stubborn and set in their ways without proper training. Also, obedience training may save your Yorkshire Terrier's life; if he escapes out the front door, youll be able to call him back.

Yorkshire Terriers have few serious health problems. They do often have dental problems, such as retained baby teeth. Other problems these little guys can have are hernias and hypoglycemia.

Medium Maintenance

Food for your Yorkshire Terrier will probably be your smallest expense. These little dogs don't eat much. However, you will have to be careful that you don't spoil your puppy with soft food, or he may refuse to eat dry food, which he needs to keep his teeth in shape.

Most Yorkies should be groomed at least three times a week to keep their hair from matting. Dogs with silkier coats may need to be groomed only once a week. Also, since Yorkies are prone to dental problems, you should brush your dog's teeth several times a week.

Pocket-Size Pal

If you want a pocket-sized dog with plenty of spunk, then a Yorkie may be the perfect breed for you.

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