Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are big personalities packed into tiny bodies, often acting like the self-appointed boss of the household. They form deep bonds with their people and love being right in the middle of family activity, whether that's curling up on the couch or trotting alongside you from room to room. Their terrier roots show in their boldness and tendency to bark at anything unusual, making them surprisingly effective little watchdogs. With early socialization, they're confident, charming, and endlessly entertaining companions.
Behavior & traits
- devoted to family
- alert watchdog
- bold for their size
- playful
- people oriented
Health concerns
Yorkies are generally healthy but prone to dental issues, luxating patellas, and collapsing trachea, which is why a harness is strongly preferred over a collar. Hypoglycemia can occur in young puppies, so frequent small meals are important early on. Regular vet checkups and good dental care go a long way in keeping them thriving into their teens.
Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.
Feeding & nutrition
Yorkies do best on high-quality small-breed kibble formulated for their tiny mouths and fast metabolisms, typically eating about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day split into two or three meals. Because they can be picky and prone to dental disease, mixing in some dental-friendly options or vet-approved toppers helps. Watch portion sizes carefully — even a few extra treats can quickly add up on such a small frame.
Exercise needs
Despite their tiny size, Yorkies have surprising energy and benefit from two short daily walks plus some indoor play. A couple of 15–20 minute outings, combined with games of fetch down the hallway or puzzle toys, usually do the trick. Families with kids will find Yorkies happy to join in gentle backyard play, though they shouldn't be over-exercised in extreme heat or cold.
Living with a Yorkshire Terrier
Living with a Yorkie means having a tiny shadow who follows you everywhere — to the kitchen, the bathroom, and right back to bed. They're remarkably adaptable to apartment life and busy family schedules, but they thrive on being included, not left alone for long stretches. Expect a vocal little alarm system who announces every doorbell, delivery, and squirrel, which can be charming or chaotic depending on your household. Their silky coat needs daily brushing or a shorter 'puppy cut' to stay manageable, and many families are pleasantly surprised by how clean and low-odor they are. With kids, Yorkies do best with older, gentle children who understand that this is a small, fragile dog — not a toy to be picked up roughly.
Recommended products
A well-fitted step-in harness is non-negotiable for Yorkies to protect their delicate trachea on walks. Invest in quality grooming tools like a pin brush, detangling spray, and small dental kit, since coat care and tooth brushing are daily essentials. A cozy elevated bed, a sturdy playpen for safe alone-time, and small-breed-sized toys (think plush squeakers and treat puzzles) round out the basics. Pet stairs near the couch or bed are also a smart addition to prevent jumping injuries.
Reads for Yorkshire Terrier owners
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How to Train a Dog to Stay Calm During Thunderstorms
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The Sensitive Stomach Playbook: A 3-Week Plan Before You Blame the Food
If you've cycled through three "sensitive stomach" foods in two months and your dog's gut is still a mystery, the problem probably isn't the kibble — it's that no one told you how to actually run an elimination trial. Here's the 3-week diagnostic process, the variables most owners forget (hint: eating speed and anxiety), and honest picks for slow feeders and limited-ingredient foods when you genuinely need them.
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How to Create a Sensory Garden for Your Dog
Transform your backyard into a sensory wonderland for your dog with our guide to creating a sensory garden. Enhance their senses and enrich their life with tactile pathways, aromatic plants, and interactive features.