History
The Yorkshire terrier originated in Yorkshire, England in the 19th century, and was used to catch rats in clothing mills. The breeds that make up the Yorkie are unknown, but it’s believed that the Skye terrier, Maltese, black and tan Manchester terrier, Leeds terrier (now extinct) and the Dandie Dinmont terrier are all possible forebears.
In the late 1860s, a Yorkshire terrier named Huddersfield Ben was seen at many dog shows throughout Great Britain, and in 1870 would be the dog that defined what a Yorkshire terrier was.
Personality
Friendly, Feisty and Fearless
The Yorkie is a friendly, lovable dog with a heart of gold and unmatched loyalty. They have a loud bark, which makes them perfect watchdogs despite their small size (they never grow over 7 lbs). Because of their protective nature, they’ll sound off when strangers approach. Their barking can be tamed with a little training if needed.
Adapt Well and Travel Easily
Because of their small size Yorkshire terriers tend to travel easily. They also make good pets for all types of homes and adapt to their surroundings easily. As long as they are given the attention and love they deserve, they can live almost anywhere.
Independent but Love Attention
Yorkies are easily trainable because by nature they are independent dogs that adapt to their surroundings quickly, usually without human help. But that doesn’t mean they don’t want love. Yorkies are cute and they know it, and they want you to know it too. They need to be showered with attention, and they love to interact with people.
Care
Brush That Hair
The Yorkie wears a long coat of hair and needs to be brushed and combed on a daily basis to prevent tangles. It’ll also grow a little shag over its eyes and some owners will clip it or comb it, but either way make sure to keep it out of your Yorkie’s line of vision.
Take Them Everywhere
The Yorkshire terrier gets its exercise by following its owner everywhere. Whether it’s to the yard to do some yard work, the basement to do laundry, or the corner store for a coffee, bring your Yorkie everywhere. They may not require as much exercise as bigger dogs, but they are energetic and love to run around town.
Keep Those Teeth Sparkling
The Yorkshire is prone to teeth problems but as long as their teeth are cleaned frequently they should continue to have a nice set of chompers.
Give Them Treats
Training a Yorkie is fairly easy but requires positive reinforcement. While they can be a bit stubborn at times, keeping their lessons simple, giving them rewards and repeating often will have them trained in no time.
Energetic, loveable, protective and tiny, Yorkies prove that good dogs can come in small packages.