The Yorkshire Terrier Dog

The Yorkshire Terrier dog originates from Great Britain dating back to the 1800's. It was originally bred as a ratting dog for use in coal mines where its small size and tenacious character were definite assets. Its ancestry likely includes the now extinct Clydesdale, Paisley Terrier, and Waterside Terrier. It has also been suggested that the Maltese dog has played a role in Yorkshire ancestry. This may have occurred after the Yorkshire breed was already established, and possibly contributed to the very light blue, heavily coated ones.

The Yorkshire Terrier dog was introduced to North America in 1880. Today it is solely a companion. This little terrier, which is a pleasure to own, has become one of the most common toy dog breeds in both North America and Europe. It is often more of a 'dog for show and fashion', but will learn obedience if given a chance. Most common colors are are brown (sometimes light brown) and dark blue (sometimes almost black) in color. The Yorkshire Terrier dog does not know that it is classified as a toy dog. It is not a delicate or wimpy dog, rather it is rugged and tenacious with a seeming endless supply of energy and drive. It will learn the household routine at a very early age, and there will be no secrets. Those bright little eyes will see everything. If you are just thinking of going out, your little Yorkshire Terrier dog will be at your side ready to go. It travels quite well in your family vehicle and will quickly find and "own" a favourite spot for riding along. It is always ready to play or to find adventure.

The Yorkshire Terrier dog is easy to train. It loves to please and enjoys lots of praise. Training and discipline must be consistent, firm, fair and loving. Inconsistent training, that is giving in to its disobedience 'just this once' will invite disobedience and mischievous behavior. Some people think these dogs are too small for training. Their brains may be small, but the Yorkshire is highly intelligent and will take advantage where it can. A small dog that was bred to catch and kill rats needs to be mentally and physically quick and active.

It is important to socialize the puppy, starting at an early age. This is best accomplished by having it introduced to and handled by a people; more people than just you. This will help it to grow up with confidence in itself and in humans. The result will be a well adjusted dog that knows it is loved and valued.

The Yorkshire Terrier Dog at a Glance:

Origin	The Yorkshire Terrier originates from Great Britain dating back to around 1800.
Original Use	Ratting in coal mines
Use Today	Companion
Temperament	The Yorkshire Terrier is a loyal companion that is full of energy and is always on the look out for a new adventure. It loves to please and enjoys attention and praise. It is fearless and can be stubborn.
Acceptance of:	Other Dogs - Not Well
	Other Pets - Not Well
	Strangers - Reserved
	Children - Ok with older children.
Watchdog Ability	Excellent
Guard dog Ability	Very Poor
Ease of Training	Average , but can be stubborn.
Living Conditions	The Yorkshire Terrier dog is suited for urban or apartment living. It is not tolerant of cold weather and cannot live outdoors.
Exercise	Although it loves to run and play outdoors, it will be active enough indoors to meet exercise requirements.
Coat	It has a long fine coat consisting of straight silky hair that hangs down over the sides.
Grooming	The Yorkshire Terrier dog requires frequent brushing to keep its coat in top shape.
Colors	Its body is steal blue. Its head and legs are black and tan.
Height and Weight	Ideal weight is less than 7 pounds (3.17 kg) while the ideal height is 7 to 9 inches (17.75 to 23 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.
Life Expectancy	12 to 14 years.
Group	The AKC places the Yorkshire Terrier dog in the toy group.

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