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Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

A tiny, long-haired terrier bred in Yorkshire mills to catch rats.

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Quick facts

Origin
England
Size
Small
Energy
Medium
Bred for
Ratting
Lifespan
11–15 years
Temperament
Feisty, affectionate, brave
Exercise
40 min/day
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Training
Moderate
With children
Supervise
Apartment
Yes

Where the Yorkshire Terrier comes from

Yorkshire Terriers were bred in the 1800s by mill workers in Yorkshire, England, to catch rats in textile mills. They later became fashionable pets.

Personality and daily life

Feisty, brave and affectionate. Yorkies think they are much bigger than they are and bond closely with their owners.

Yorkies are small but fearless. Their silky coat needs daily care or a short clip.

Exercise, grooming and health

Short walks and play. The silky coat needs daily brushing or a short clip. Dental disease and luxating kneecaps are common.

Is a Yorkshire Terrier right for you?

City owners who want a small dog with attitude. Supervise around young children.

  • Copes well with apartment living
  • Best with older children, always supervised
  • Sheds little
  • Needs regular grooming

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Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.