Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as Terrier du Yorkshire
Great Britain, Toy Terriers
- Size
- Toy
- Height
- 18–23 cm
- Weight
- 2–3.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–16 yrs
- Bold
- Lively
- Affectionate
- Alert
- Spirited
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a toy terrier from England, developed in Yorkshire to catch rats in mills and mines before becoming a popular companion. It is small, with a long, silky, steel-blue and tan coat that hangs straight down each side. It is bold and confident for its size.
Temperament
Bold, lively and affectionate, often unaware of its small size. It is alert and may bark. It bonds closely with family and can be clingy.
Exercise
Short daily walks and indoor play meet its needs. It is energetic around the house and enjoys games, but small bodies chill quickly, so go easy in extreme weather.
Grooming
Long, silky coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles, or can be clipped short. Tidy the face and check for tear staining.
Care & wellbeing
Keep teeth clean, as small breeds are prone to dental build-up. Be careful with jumping and handling, due to fragile bones. Use a harness to protect the neck.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 2.8 kg adult- Water
- 112 ml–168 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 240 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Yorkshire Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A tiny terrier developed in northern England in the 19th century, originally to catch rats in mills and mines. It is now a popular toy companion, known for its long silky coat and bold, lively personality.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Dental disease
- Portosystemic shunt
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Kneecap checks
- Dental check
- Bile acids test
Not every Yorkshire Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 13–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Yorkshire Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Yorkshire Terrier get?
Adult Yorkshire Terriers typically stand about 18–23 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 2–3.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
Typically 13–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Yorkshire Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Yorkshire Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Yorkshire Terriers good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Yorkshire Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Yorkshire Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental disease. Not every Yorkshire Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Toy Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954