The Yorkshire Terrier, often called Yorkie, is a dog breed originating from Yorkshire County in England. It was developed in the 19th century to hunt rats in textile mills. Today, it is appreciated worldwide for its lively and playful personality, loyalty, and small size, ideal for confined spaces.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: England
- Hypoallergenic? Yes
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 1.8-3.2 kg
- Female: 2-3.2 kg
- Height:
- Male: 20-23 cm
- Female: 20-23 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Exercise needs: 45 minutes to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Suitable for apartment living)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good for families with older children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along well with other animals but must be socialized from a young age)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (May be reserved towards foreigners)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Ideal for apartments due to its small size)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Requires regular grooming)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate)
- Frequency of care:
- Grooming: The long, silky coat should be brushed regularly to avoid knots and tangles.
- Hygiene: Wash once a month with a mild dog shampoo, clean ears, and trim nails regularly.
- Baths: A monthly bath is recommended, but do not overdo it to preserve coat quality.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price:800-2000 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 600-800 €
🏡 Important note
The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent companion for people living in small spaces like apartments. However, due to its small size, it can be vulnerable to injury if mistreated or if it comes into contact with larger or more aggressive animals. It is important to give it special attention and to provide respectful interactions with children and other animals.
It is also essential to provide enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive or excessively barking behaviors. A well-trained Yorkie can be a joyful, loyal, and affectionate companion for families.
