Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is a toy breed that punches well above its diminutive weight.
Originating in Yorkshire during the industrial era, these small terriers were originally bred to control vermin in mills and mines, a heritage that explains their bold, tenacious nature despite their compact frame of just 3 kg and 20–24 cm in height.
3-3kg
Weight
Small
Size
13-16yrs
Lifespan
About the Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are instantly recognisable by their long, silky coat, which flows elegantly and demands regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain its glamorous appearance. Their lifespan of 13–16 years offers a considerable companionship window for dedicated owners. This spirited temperament remains a defining characteristic today, balanced beautifully by genuine affection for their families and a playful, intelligent disposition. These adaptable dogs thrive in various living situations, from city flats to country homes, requiring up to 30 minutes of daily exercise combined with mental stimulation to keep them content. Their loyalty runs deep, and they form strong bonds with their owners, though they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. The Yorkshire Terrier suits individuals and families willing to commit to consistent grooming and training, offering a rewarding, spirited small companion for those seeking both charm and character.
Yorkshire Terrier at a Glance
- Group
- Toy
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 3–3 kg
- Height
- 20–24 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–16 years
- Coat
- Long
- Sheds
- No
- Exercise
- Up to 30 minutes per day
- Typical price
- £800–£2100
Yorkshire Terrier Lifestyle
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the breeds that copes well in a flat or apartment and is well suited to a home with a small to medium garden. Whether in the city or the countryside, they tend to settle well.
Dog Food for Yorkshire Terrier
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Yorkshire Terrier weighing around 3 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£0.94 - £1.00
Per month
£28 - £30
Per year
£343 - £366
Yorkshire Terrier Characteristics
The Yorkshire Terrier benefits from regular activity without needing marathon sessions and picks up new commands with very little repetition. They tend to be fine around children, especially when raised alongside them and are quite settled when home alone. The coat requires dedicated grooming, and daily brushing isn't out of the question, but is a good option for those who prefer less dog hair around the home. Intelligence is a real hallmark of this breed, and they do best with plenty of mental enrichment alongside exercise.
Yorkshire Terrier Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly intelligent and full of fun-loving personality, making them a delight to live with
- Well-proportioned and compact, with a distinctive silky coat that turns heads on every walk
- Surprisingly capable watchdogs for their size, with a sharp and confident alert
- Highly adaptable, fitting comfortably into flat life and a range of different living environments
Cons
- Their long silky coat needs daily attention and regular professional trims to stay healthy
- Prone to separation anxiety and dislikes being left alone for extended periods
- A strong prey drive means careful management around smaller pets is wise
- Can be persistent barkers without early socialisation and consistent training from puppyhood
