Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny, confident, and affectionate companion dog known for its silky coat and bold personality—perfect for US apartment living and stylish small-dog lovers.
Origin
England
Size
Small
Popularity
United States, United Kingdom
Low
Medium
High
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small but bold companion breed with a luxurious, silky coat and a lively terrier personality. Popular across the US for apartment living and travel-friendly size, the Yorkie thrives on attention and engagement. Unlike highly energetic breeds like poodles (Standard, Miniature, Toy), the Yorkie requires moderate exercise and daily grooming. Intelligent, affectionate, and spirited, this breed excels in families that enjoy an elegant yet playful small dog.
7–8 in
18–20 cm
Blue & tan, black & tan, blue & gold
4–7 lbs
1.8–3.2 kg
Apartment owners, beginners, seniors, travelers
12–16 years
Confident, affectionate, lively, bold, intelligent
History
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in 19th-century England, developed by mill workers using small terriers to control rats. Its striking silky coat and lively personality soon made it a fashionable companion among Victorian families. The breed gained popularity in the US for its elegance, portability, and charm. Today, the Yorkie remains one of America’s favorite toy breeds, beloved for its personality, beauty, and adaptability.
Temperament
Yorkies are confident, affectionate, and bold despite their tiny size. They thrive in US households that offer companionship, playtime, and gentle training, making them great apartment and travel partners.
Training
Needs gentle, consistent training; smart and eager but may be stubborn.
Care & Grooming
Daily brushing, routine trimming, dental care, and gentle exercise keep Yorkies healthy.
Coat Looks
Long, silky, flowing coat with a refined toy-breed outline and expressive face.
Health & Nutriton
Feed quality small-breed food, support dental health, and manage low body weight.
Apartment
Moderate
Moderate
Before Buying
Yorkies are delicate toy dogs requiring daily grooming, gentle handling, and dental care. Not ideal for young children or rough play. US owners must budget for grooming, training, and potential vet bills for dental and airway issues. Perfect for apartments but need secure spaces and supervision outdoors.
Activity Level
3 – Medium energy