
If you like small dogs with big dog attitudes, you may want to consider a Yorkshire Terrier. However, the Yorkie can cuddle with the best of them. The Yorkshire Terrier is a member of the American Kennel Club’s Toy Group. In the show ring, a Yorkie seems to glide across the ground,since the dog’s long, flowing coat hides its tiny feet. If you want a pocket sized dog with plenty of spunk, then a Yorkie may be the perfect breed for you.
Although Yorkies can be as small as one pound, most breeders do not recommend trying to breed dogs this tiny, 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 under seven pounds, but does not have a minimum required weight. Yorkshire Terriers 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.
Personality
Yorkies are not a good choice for families with toddlers. This is not because Yorkies are untrustworthy with children, but because they are delicate little dogs and can be easily injured. A Yorkie with a good temperament may allow children to squeeze and pull on him, but it is unfair to subject a little dog to that treatment.
Yorkshire Terriers are sociable little dogs and enjoy being in the midst of all the activity and bustle of family life. However, they are likely to remain reserved with people they don’t know. 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 you are able to call him back to you if he escapes out the front door.Yorkies are more dependent on their owners for attention and affection. They do not tolerate being left alone for even short periods of time.
Yorkies are so sure that they are just as big and bad as the other guy, that they will not hesitate to take on a Great Dane. Success with introducing your Yorkie to other dogs depends on proper introduction exercises and training.The Yorkie tends to bark a little more than average. Any time they see another dog passing by on the sidewalk, they are sure to let out a territorial growl or bark.
Grooming
Most Yorkies should be groomed at least three times a week to keep their hair from matting. Dogs with silkier coats may only need to be groomed once a week. Also, since Yorkies are prone to dental problems, you should brush your dog’s teeth several times a week.
Feeding & Exercise
The Yorkshire Terrier is an ideal apartment dog. Of course, your Yorkie would enjoy having a yard to romp in, but he can survive without it. 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 takes the little dog home, thinking it is lost or abandoned. 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 will help you keep his teeth in better shape.
