Yorkies or Yorkshire Terriers

The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but bred in England. They were molded to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets. In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005. 

They have been selectively bred to be small and light weight.  This makes them perfect lap dogs and this attention transforms the Yorkie into a bright, playful, and loyal companion pet.  

The following are some of the basic facts future owners would love to know about Yorkies:

Category: Toy (Terrier)

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat 

Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they mature

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Height: between 8 and 9 inches 

Weight:  between 3 and 7 pounds

Temperament: 

Naturally, 

• they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected

• they are intelligent and fearless 

• they are assertive and independent

When properly trained,

• they develop close affinity with older children

• they become really playful and lively

• they become extremely affectionate

• they do not mind having other pets at home

• they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner

 Care and Exercise: 

• They require daily grooming.

• Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.

• Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.

• They are fit only for short strides.

• They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing shadows, and joining tug-of-war.

Origin/History:

In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time, these terriers were crossed and terriers with "broken hairs" were produced.

In 1870, a "broken-haired Scotch terrier" was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types were bred in a town called Yorkshire. 

Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972, Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country's favorite pet.

You can say that the Yorkies developed from tough breeds because of their ancestors' reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but adventurous breed of dog, grab a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they will really need your attention and companionship more than any other terriers.