Temperament
Yorkies are affectionate with their people, confident and feisty — true terriers in a tiny package. They can be suspicious of strangers and bossy with bigger dogs.
Exercise and energy
Short daily walks and indoor play are enough — about 30–45 minutes a day. They still need walks for mental stimulation and socialization.
Grooming
The long, silky coat sheds little but tangles easily. Many owners keep a short "puppy cut" and have it trimmed every 6–8 weeks. Brush teeth daily — small breeds are prone to dental disease.
Training
Smart but can be stubborn; house-training often takes extra time. Use a consistent routine and positive reinforcement. Early socialization helps prevent yappiness.
Health
Watch for dental disease, kneecap dislocation (patellar luxation), tracheal collapse (use a harness instead of a collar), liver shunts, and low blood sugar in young puppies.
Is the Yorkshire Terrier right for you?
✅ A great match if you…
- Live in an apartment
- Want a small, low-shedding companion
- Enjoy grooming or can pay for it
- Are home a lot
⛔ Think twice if you…
- Have young children who could accidentally hurt a tiny dog
- Need a quiet dog
- Don't want daily tooth brushing
- Want a rough-and-tumble playmate
Breed traits are general tendencies, not guarantees. Health information is a summary of issues commonly reported in the breed — ask breeders for health-testing results and discuss screening with your veterinarian. Weights and heights are typical adult ranges and vary by line and sex.
