Yorkshire Terriers: Uncovering the Fascinating World of Yorkies

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are a popular breed of dog with their small size and adorable looks. Although they are small, they are known for their big personalities. If you are considering getting a Yorkie, you might have some questions about their characteristics. In this article, we will cover whether or not Yorkies are hypoallergenic, good with kids, smart, and easy to train.

Understanding Yorkies: A Brief Overview

What Were Yorkies Bred For?

Before diving into their characteristics, it’s important to understand a little bit about Yorkies. They were originally bred in the county of Yorkshire, England in the 19th century as a working class dog. Their small size made them perfect for catching rats in textile mills and mines. However, they eventually became popular as a companion dog and are known for their spunky and playful personalities.

The Origin of Yorkshire Terriers

The history of Yorkies can be traced back to the 1800s. They were first bred in Yorkshire, England, and were originally used as rat hunters. They were created from a mix of several terrier breeds, with the primary goal being to create a small but feisty dog that could hunt rodents in tight spaces.

Yorkies were initially known as “broken-haired Scotch Terriers” or “Toy Terriers” before being officially recognized as Yorkshire Terriers in 1874. They quickly gained popularity in the United States and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

How Much Do Yorkies Cost?

On average, Yorkies can cost anywhere between $1,200 to $2,500, with the price often reflecting the quality of the breeding and the pedigree. Yorkies with show-worthy pedigrees and champion bloodlines are typically more expensive than those without.

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are a popular breed of small dogs known for their adorable looks and lively personalities. The cost of a Yorkie can be relatively high compared to other dog breeds, and there are several reasons why this is the case.

Why Are Yorkies So Expensive?

Firstly, Yorkies are a relatively small breed, which means there are fewer puppies in each litter. This can drive up the cost of each individual puppy. Additionally, reputable breeders often invest significant time and money into producing healthy and high-quality puppies, including genetic testing, veterinary care, and proper socialization.

Furthermore, the demand for Yorkies is often high due to their charming personality and adorable appearance. As a result, breeders may charge a premium for their puppies, especially for those with show-quality pedigrees or champion bloodlines.

It’s important to note that the cost of owning a Yorkie goes beyond the initial purchase price. Ongoing expenses such as food, veterinary care, grooming, and toys should be factored into the overall cost of owning a Yorkie.

When considering purchasing a Yorkie, it’s essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and wellbeing of their dogs. Additionally, adoption or rescue may be a more affordable option for those who are not set on owning a purebred Yorkie.

Physical Characteristics and Temperament

How Big Do Yorkies Get?

Yorkies are a small breed, weighing between 4 and 7 pounds and standing about 7 to 8 inches tall; making them great dogs for apartment living. They have a distinctive coat that is long, silky, and often requires regular grooming. They come in a variety of colors, including black, tan, and silver.

When Do Yorkies Stop Growing?

On average, Yorkies will reach their full adult height by around six months of age. At this point, they will continue to grow in weight and fill out their bodies until they reach their adult weight, which is typically achieved between 8 and 12 months of age.

It’s important to note that some Yorkies may continue to grow slightly beyond their first year of life, but their growth will generally slow down significantly. By the time a Yorkie reaches 18 months of age, they will have reached their full size and will no longer grow in height or weight.

Despite their small size, Yorkies are known for their big personalities. They are energetic, enthusiastic, and always up for a good game of fetch. They are also incredibly loyal and affectionate towards their owners, making them excellent family pets.

However, it’s important to note that Yorkies can also be stubborn and independent, which can make training a challenge. They are also known for their tendency to bark excessively, which can be a problem in apartment buildings or close-knit neighborhoods.

Health Concerns

Like all breeds, Yorkies are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health concerns in Yorkies include dental problems, hypoglycemia, and tracheal collapse.

Dental problems are particularly common in Yorkies, as their small mouths can lead to overcrowding and other dental issues. It’s important to brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly and provide them with dental chews to help keep their teeth healthy.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can also be a problem in Yorkies. This is especially true in puppies, who may not have fully developed their ability to regulate their blood sugar levels. Signs of hypoglycemia include lethargy, weakness, and seizures. If you suspect your Yorkie is experiencing hypoglycemia, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Tracheal collapse is another health concern in Yorkies. This is a condition where the trachea, or windpipe, collapses and makes it difficult for the dog to breathe. It’s often seen in older Yorkies or those who are overweight. Signs of tracheal collapse include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your Yorkie is experiencing tracheal collapse, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Can Yorkies Eat Cheese?

Yes, Yorkies can enjoy cheese in moderation. Although cheese is not inherently toxic to Yorkies, they naturally lack the digestive enzyme lactase, rendering them lactose intolerant from birth. Provided cheese is fed to Yorkies in small quantities and fatty cheeses are avoided, it is generally considered safe. In fact, cheese can even offer some benefits to dogs!

• Start with a small amount, and see how your Yorkie handles eating cheese.
• Choose a low fat cheese like mozzarella or cottage cheese.

Can Yorkies Eat Peanut Butter?

Indeed, the commonly recommended guideline is to offer peanut butter to your dog as an occasional treat. The good news is that regular peanut butter is typically safe to give to your furry friend. However, it’s essential to be cautious and avoid peanut butter products containing Xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be found in lower or sugar-free versions. Xylitol is the sole ingredient in peanut butter that poses a risk to dogs, so it’s crucial to double-check the ingredient label before giving peanut butter to your dog.

How Long Do Yorkies Live?

The lifespan of a Yorkie can vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. On average, Yorkies live for 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care and attention, they can live longer.

One of the most important factors in extending the life of a Yorkie is proper nutrition. Yorkies require a high-quality diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They also need plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Regular exercise is also essential for Yorkies. They may be small, but they are active and love to play. Daily walks and playtime can help keep them healthy and prevent obesity.

Are Yorkies Hypoallergenic?

One of the most commonly asked questions about Yorkies is whether or not they are hypoallergenic. Hypoallergenic dogs produce fewer allergens, making them a good choice for people with allergies. But are Yorkies hypoallergenic?

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

To understand whether or not Yorkies are hypoallergenic, it’s important to first understand what hypoallergenic means. Hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that produce fewer allergens, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction in people with allergies. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but some breeds produce less dander and fewer allergens than others.

Yorkies and Allergies: The Facts

Unfortunately, Yorkies are not considered to be 100% hypoallergenic. They do shed some dander and hair, which can trigger allergies in people who are sensitive to them. However, some people with allergies have been able to live with Yorkies without experiencing any allergy symptoms. This may be due to the fact that Yorkies are a low-shedding breed.

Despite not being 100% hypoallergenic, Yorkies are still a popular breed. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.

Yorkies are also a relatively small breed, which makes them a good choice for people living in apartments or smaller homes. They are energetic and playful, but also enjoy cuddling up on the couch with their owners.

If you are considering getting a Yorkie but have allergies, it’s important to spend some time around the breed before making a decision. This will give you a better idea of whether or not you are sensitive to their dander and hair.

Yorkies and Kids: A Good Match?

If you have children, you might be wondering whether or not Yorkies are a good match for kids. Let’s take a closer look.

Yorkies’ Temperament Around Children

Are Yorkies Good With Kids?

Despite their small size, Yorkies are known for their big personalities. They are energetic, playful, and spunky, which can make them a great match for kids. Yorkies are also known for being loyal and affectionate with their families, including children. However, it’s important to note that every dog is different, and some Yorkies may not be as tolerant of children as others. It’s important to socialize your Yorkie from a young age and supervise them when they are around children.

It’s also important to consider the age of your children when deciding if a Yorkie is a good match for your family. Yorkies are small dogs and may not be the best fit for families with very young children who may accidentally hurt the dog. However, with proper training and supervision, Yorkies can be great companions for older children.

Tips for Introducing Yorkies to Kids

If you are introducing your Yorkie to kids for the first time, there are a few things you can do to help ensure a positive experience. First, make sure both the kids and the Yorkie are calm and relaxed. It’s also a good idea to teach your kids how to approach and interact with the dog gently and responsibly.

• Teach kids to approach the dog slowly and quietly. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle the dog.
• Encourage them to sit down and let the Yorkie come to them. This allows the dog to approach on their own terms and feel more comfortable.
• Show them how to pet the dog gently and avoid pulling on their hair or tail. Yorkies have long hair that can easily get tangled, so it’s important to teach kids to be gentle when petting them.
• Teach kids to respect the dog’s personal space. Yorkies are small dogs and may feel overwhelmed if a child is too close or tries to pick them up.

It’s also important to supervise any interactions between your Yorkie and children. Even the most well-behaved dog can become agitated or defensive if they feel threatened or uncomfortable.

Benefits of Yorkies for Kids

While it’s important to consider the potential challenges of owning a Yorkie with kids, there are also many benefits to having a small dog in the family. Yorkies are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families, and can make great companions for children. They are also low-shedding, which can be a plus for families with allergies.

In addition, Yorkies are a small breed, which means they don’t require a lot of space or exercise. This can make them a good choice for families who live in apartments or don’t have a lot of outdoor space for a larger dog.

The Intelligence of Yorkies

Many people wonder if Yorkies are smart and easy to train. Let’s explore their intelligence.

How Smart Are Yorkshire Terriers?

Yorkies are considered to be a fairly intelligent breed of dog. They are quick learners and have a good memory. In fact, Yorkies have been known to learn tricks and commands in as little as five repetitions. This makes them great candidates for obedience training and agility competitions.

One reason why Yorkies are so smart is because they were originally bred to catch rats in textile mills. This required them to be quick thinkers and problem solvers, as they had to navigate through small spaces and figure out how to catch their prey.

However, like all dogs, their intelligence can vary from dog to dog. Some Yorkies may be more stubborn or independent than others, which can affect their ability to learn and follow commands.

Will Yorkies Kill Mice?

As a small and lively breed, it’s natural for Yorkies to have a strong prey drive, which may cause them to chase and hunt smaller animals. However, whether Yorkies will kill mice is not a straightforward answer.

While some Yorkies may have a natural instinct to hunt and kill mice, not all Yorkies will display this behavior. It ultimately depends on the individual dog’s personality and temperament. Some Yorkies may show no interest in mice or other small animals, while others may be more inclined to hunt them down.

Yorkies’ Problem-Solving Abilities

Despite their small size, Yorkies are resourceful problem solvers. They are known for their ability to figure out how to get what they want, which can sometimes lead to mischief!

For example, if a Yorkie wants to get to a toy that’s out of reach, they may stack objects on top of each other to create a makeshift staircase. Or, if they want to get into a closed room, they may scratch at the door until someone lets them in.

However, this problem-solving ability can also be a good thing. Yorkies are able to adapt to new situations and environments quickly, which makes them great travel companions. They can also be trained to perform tasks such as retrieving items or opening doors.

In conclusion, while Yorkies may be small in size, they are big in intelligence. Their ability to learn quickly, problem-solve, and adapt to new situations make them great pets for those looking for a smart and loyal companion.

Training Your Yorkie: Is It Easy?

If you are considering getting a Yorkie, you might be wondering if they are easy to train. Let’s take a closer look.

Yorkies’ Trainability and Learning Style

Yorkies are known for being independent thinkers, which can sometimes make them a little more challenging to train than other breeds. However, they are also highly trainable and eager to please their owners. Positive reinforcement training techniques tend to work best with Yorkies.

Tips for Training Your Yorkshire Terrier

If you want to train your Yorkie, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother:

• Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior.
• Be consistent with your training and use the same commands and techniques every time.
• Keep training sessions short and frequent, rather than trying to cram too much into one session.
• Remember to be patient and persistent!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Yorkies are adorable and spunky little dogs that can make great family pets. They may not be hypoallergenic, but some people with allergies have been able to live with them without experiencing any symptoms. Yorkies can be a good match for kids, but it’s important to socialize them properly and supervise them around children. They are also fairly intelligent dogs, although their independent nature can sometimes make them a little more challenging to train. With patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement techniques, you can train your Yorkie to be a well-behaved and obedient companion.