Yorkshire Terrier
Bold and bossy with big attitude
Yorkies 101
Toy groupThe Yorkshire Terrier is probably the first of the modern celebrity “purse dog” breeds, a spunky dog able to hold their own in an urban setting. A tiny dog with a big attitude, Yorkies can be too bossy for their own good and need to be protected from their worst inclinations to avoid injuries. They are very affectionate to their families, but not particularly interested in strangers.
What we love about Yorkies
Original celebrity purse dog with a big dog attitude.
Because of their size-related fragility, Yorkies may not be the best dogs for families with young children or large dogs. They learn quickly and those living alongside them will reap the benefit of early manners training!
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Luxated patella
Pancreatitis
Dental disease
Senior Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Collapsed trachea
Kidney failure
Valvular heart disease
Yorkie puppy
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Gastritis
Ear infection
Dental disease
Young adult Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Luxated patella
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
Dental disease
Mature adult Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Luxated patella
Pancreatitis
Dental disease
Senior Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Collapsed trachea
Kidney failure
Valvular heart disease
Yorkie puppy
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Gastritis
Ear infection
Dental disease
Young adult Yorkie
Risk level for common Yorkie conditions
Luxated patella
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
Dental disease
Nationwide can help you save on your Yorkshire Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Yorkshire Terrier’s health information in a free report
The United States has no fewer than six memorials to a Yorkie named Smoky, who saved American lives in World War II by dragging a communications cable through a 60-foot drainage line that was just 8 inches in diameter.
Yorkshire Terrier coat care and colors
The Yorkshire Terrier has a long, silky coat that tangles easily without daily combing and brushing. For that reason, most Yorkies are kept clipped short by a professional groomer. While that makes home coat care easier, it does make for cold dogs on winter days, so it’s best to have a sweater or two for warmth when needed. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.
How can I prevent matting and tangles in my Yorkie’s fur?
Daily combing and brushing will keep your Yorkshire Terrier's coat free of mats and tangles. Because the coat of a Yorkie is silky and long, mats and tangles form quickly if you miss a day or two. Most pet Yorkies visit a groomer every 6 to 8 weeks to be clipped short, preventing painful mats and tangles.
Can I trim my Yorkie's hair at home?
Yes, you can. While most people find it easier -- not to mention prettier -- to have a professional keep their Yorkshire Terriers clipped, it's certainly possible to teach yourself. YouTube has grooming tutorials that go over what you tools you need and how to clip your Yorkie safely.
How often should I groom my Yorkshire Terrier?
The coat of an unclipped Yorkshire Terrier needs daily attention -- combing and brushing down to the skin to prevent mats and tangles. If you keep your Yorkie clipped, though, a weekly brushing/combing session is all you need, along with baths as required for dirt or odors.
Yorkie exercise & training
Yorkie fun facts
Top girl names for Yorkies
of Yorkies are female
of Yorkies are male
Top boy names for Yorkies
Nationwide loves Yorkshire Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Yorkies
Best. Yorkshire Terrier insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free