INTRODUCTION

Small in size but big in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty but affectionate companion. America’s most popular toy dog breed, the “Yorkie” has won many fans for its devotion to its owners, its elegant appearance and its suitability for flat living. Although these are purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of shelters or rescue groups. Remember to adopt. Although Yorkies can make excellent flat pets, they also have a tendency to be very noisy, which neighbours may not like. They will also need some maintenance, especially when it comes to dental care. Although these puppies are playful, they are also small and can be hurt by children. But if you can provide them with plenty of love, attention, care and playtime, you will have a loving and cuddly companion who will stick to you like your shadow.

HIGHLIGHTS

Yorkshire Terriers are known to be difficult to housebreak. Due to their small size, delicate build and terrier personality, Yorkshire Terriers are generally not recommended for homes with small children. Early and consistent training can help. If you do not feel up to this training, consult a professional dog trainer.Yorkshire Terriers can have a delicate digestive system and can be picky eaters. Feeding problems can occur if your Yorkie has teeth or gum problems as well. If your Yorkie shows discomfort when eating or after eating, take him to the vet for a check-up.Yorkshire Terriers think they are big dogs and will try to fight a big dog if they are allowed to. Be sure to keep your Yorkie under control. Better yet, try to socialise your Yorkie at an early age by taking him to obedience classes.Yorkies tend to retain their puppy teeth, especially the canines. When your puppy is about five months old, check his teeth frequently. If you notice that an adult tooth is trying to erupt but the baby tooth is still there, take him to the vet. Retained baby teeth can cause adult teeth to erupt unevenly, which can contribute to tooth decay in later years.To have a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to ensure that they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and that they have a sound temperament.

HISTORY

During the Industrial Revolution in England, Scottish workers came to Yorkshire to work in the coal mines, textile mills, and factories, bringing with them a dog known as a Clydesdale Terrier or Paisley Terrier. These dogs were much larger than the Yorkshire Terrier we know today, and it is believed that they were primarily used to catch rats in mills. Clydesdale Terriers were likely interbred with other types of terrier, perhaps the English Black and Tan Toy Terrier and the Skye Terrier. The Waterside Terrier may also have contributed to the development of the Yorkshire Terrier. This was a small dog with long blue-gray fur. In 1861, a Yorkshire Terrier was displayed on a display bench as a “broken-haired Scotch Terrier.” A dog named Huddersfield Ben, born in 1865, became a popular show dog and is considered the sire of the modern Yorkshire Terrier. The breed acquired that name in 1870 because that is where most of its development took place. Yorkshire Terriers were first recorded in the British Kennel Club studbook in 1874. The first Yorkshire Terrier breed club in England was formed in 1898. A Yorkshire Terrier that was born in the USA was in 1872. Yorkshire Terriers were able to compete in dog shows as early as 1878. In those early shows, Yorkshire Terriers classes were divided by weight: less than 5 pounds and 5 pounds or more. Eventually, the exhibitors settled on a class averaging between 3 and 7 pounds.