It should come as no surprise that the Yorkshire Terrier traces its origins to the County of York in northern England, a region made famous by Heathcliff roaming the moors in Wuthering Heights and the scenic backdrops of Downton Abbey.

However, the breed’s roots extend further north to Scotland, where it is believed that Scottish laborers brought their terriers to Yorkshire’s mines and cotton mills, laying the foundation for what we now know as the Yorkie.

Originally bred to hunt rats, Yorkies were working dogs before becoming beloved lapdogs in the mid-1800s. With their glossy, floor-length coat of steel blue and golden tan, these compact terriers weigh no more than seven pounds, yet they are known for their bold, feisty nature. Far from fragile, Yorkies are tenacious, brave, and sometimes bossy — true to their terrier instincts.

Popular in urban areas and consistently ranked among the most popular breeds registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC), Yorkies bring big personalities to small spaces. They are long-lived, hypoallergenic (their coat resembles human hair), and make excellent watchdogs. As a breed with strong character, they provide years of affection, companionship, and entertainment, cementing their place as a favorite among dog lovers worldwide. 

General Characteristics: 

• Origin: York, Northern England
• Size: Tiny
• Height: 7-8 inches
• Weight: Up to 7 pounds
• Lifespan: 13-16 years

Appearance:

• Coat: Long and Silky
• Colors: Blue and Gold
• Build: Small and dainty

Yorkie Temperament: 

• Feisty: Beneath the dainty appearance, Yorkies have the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier.
• Bossy: Yorkies are packed with attitude and don’t let their size affect their bravery.
• Affectionate: They are typically affectionate with family and strangers alike.

Training and Exercising: 

• Training: Despite their remarkable intelligence, Yorkies are not always easy to train. Training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats.
• Exercise: At least two 20-minute walks per day.

Grooming: 

• Shedding: Although Yorkies do not shed much, their long coats require regular brushing and grooming.

Interesting Facts:  

• The Yorkie’s coat has a similar texture to human hair.
• Yorkshire Terriers first arrived in America in the late 1870s and were recognized by the AKC in 1885.
• Yorkies may have been the inspiration for The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’s Toto.
• Even a dog as small as a Yorkie can succeed in the Big Apple and other large urban environments. In fact, Yorkies routinely make the top of the list of NYC’s most popular breeds.
• Bruiser Woods is a Yorkie who appeared in the movie “Legally Blonde” (2001) and its sequel as the dog of the main character, Elle Woods.
• In World War II, a Yorkie named Smoky is credited with saving the lives of soldiers by dragging a communications cable through an 8-inch-wide, 60-foot-long drainage culvert.

Yorkie Price:

The average cost of a Yorkie in the U.S. varies depending on the dog’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, location, and whether the dog is intended for show, breeding, or as a pet. Here’s a general guide:

Show Quality or Breeding Quality Yorkie

Price Range: $2,000 – $5,000

If buying a Yorkie puppy or specific breeds of Yorkie, the price will be towards the more expensive end of the spectrum.

Rescue or Adoption:

Adoption Fee: Around $50 – $900

A Yorkie adopted from a rescue organization or shelter generally costs less. This fee often includes initial veterinary care and spaying/neutering.

The Best Food for Yorkies

Canidae All Life Stages Multi-Protein Forumla

This food is ideal for Yorkies because it provides a nutrient-rich blend of premium proteins (chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish) to support their high energy needs and maintain a healthy coat. Its vet-formulated, easy-to-digest recipe with probiotics and omega fatty acids promotes overall well-being, making it perfect for small breeds with sensitive stomachs.

For more choices: See our Best Food for Yorkies page.