The guide to owning a Yorkshire Terrier.
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A history of Yorkshire Terriers.
Say hello to the elegant and spirited Yorkshire Terrier, fondly called the Yorkie.
This small breed dog may be tiny in size, but it has a rich history and a big personality.
The Yorkshire Terrier breed traces its roots back to 19th-century England, where it was originally bred in Yorkshire and Lancashire.
These little hunters were developed from the Skye Terrier, Paisley Terrier, and even Clydesdale Terriers to control rats in textile mills.
A famous show dog named Huddersfield Ben is widely regarded as the father of the modern Yorkshire Terrier.
He wowed judges and spectators alike at every dog show he attended, and thanks to his success, the Yorkshire Terrier soon became popular among Victorian high society and still sees similar popularity today.
Looking for more petite pooches? Check out our list of the cutest toy breeds.
How much is a Yorkshire Terrier puppy in the UK?
In the UK, Yorkie puppies typically cost between £800 and £2,000. Yorkie breeders may have a varying pedigree and coat quality, which can affect the price.
Those destined for the Kennel Club status may cost more due to their championship lines.
Tips for finding a good breeder:
They let you meet the mum (and ideally the dad)
They provide health test records for specific breed health concerns
They advise on feeding your Yorkshire Terrier, grooming, and vet care
They ensure each individual dog is a good match for your home
Colours and coat types.
The coat of a Yorkshire Terrier is one of its standout features. Their soft and silky coats flows down the body like they just came out of a salon.
Some owners let it grow out for that show-stopping look, while others prefer a practical puppy cut to keep things manageable.
Common coat variations:
Traditional: Steel blue and tan
Parti-coloured: White, black, and tan (rare)
Golden/blonde: Lighter hues around the head and chest
The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat is more like human hair than fur, which means less shedding but higher grooming needs.
Regular brushing and the occasional trip to the groomer will keep your Yorkshire Terrier looking fabulous.
Size and weight.
On average, a fully grown Yorkshire Terrier will stand about 15–23 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 2 to 3.2 kg.
That’s roughly the size of a small handbag or a loaf of bread (with attitude).
How big do Yorkshire Terriers get?
Not very, but don’t tell them that. Yorkies might be one of the smallest breeds around, but they carry themselves like they’re twice the size.
Despite their petite frame, they’re compact, sturdy, and surprisingly bold. They’re ideal for apartment living, travel, or anyone looking for a dog that won’t take up much space but still fills the room with personality.
Want to compare their size to other compact canines? Check out our guide to the top 10 smallest dog breeds.
Temperament and behaviour.
Yorkies have a big personality packed into a tiny frame. One minute they’re darting after a squeaky toy, the next they’re curled up like royalty on your lap.
They’re sharp, sassy, and absolutely devoted to their humans, usually with a bit of a ‘main character’ energy.
Are Yorkshire Terriers good pets?
Absolutely. Whether you're after a lap dog or a spirited little explorer, the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the most versatile and popular dog breeds for a reason.
Are they good with children?
With proper socialisation, adult Yorkshire Terriers can be great with older kids who understand how to treat a small Terrier gently. Younger children need supervision to ensure they are delicate with their new little friend.
Do they get along with cats?
They may get along with felines, but remember, like many toy dogs, Yorkies have a strong prey drive.
There’s no rush—introduce them gradually and let your Yorkie set the pace. A calm, step-by-step approach gives everyone the chance to feel comfortable, without any drama or fur flying.
Can they be left alone?
They can for short periods, but Yorkshire Terriers are often clingy companions. If left alone too long, they might suffer from separation anxiety.
Are they apartment-friendly?
Very much so. They’re a great dog in a small body, perfect for flat living, as long as you provide enough physical and mental stimulation.
Do they bark a lot?
Yes, and they're proud of it! Early training is essential to help your dog manage their excitement and alert barking.
Training a Yorkshire Terrier.
Training a Yorkshire Terrier is all about finding the balance between structure and fun. Yorkshire Terriers are generally intelligent and eager to learn, but they do have an independent streak.
Training tips:
Start early with Yorkie puppies, they’re like little sponges
Keep training short, upbeat, and engaging
Use rewards like treats or toys to motivate them
Don’t be too firm, these dogs are sensitive souls
New puppy at home? Read our guide on how to introduce a puppy to a dog.
Shedding and grooming.
Yorkies are considered hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for allergy-prone homes. They do shed a little, but their fine hair means less mess, so long as you stay on top of their regular grooming routine.
Grooming routine:
Brushing: Daily, if their coat is long
Bathing: Every 2–4 weeks to bathe your Yorkie and keep them fresh
Trimming: Every 6–8 weeks, especially for a neat puppy cut
Dental care: Small mouths need regular brushing to avoid dental issues
For more helpful information, see our post about learning how to bathe a dog at home.
Exercise and mental stimulation.
Don’t let their tiny frame fool you, Yorkshire Terriers are busy little dogs with big energy.
While they don’t need hours of running like some larger breeds, they do need consistent activity and things to keep their minds ticking.
Without it? You might find shoes chewed, socks relocated, or a whole lot of barking at invisible intruders.
Because Yorkies are clever and curious, they thrive on variety. A mix of physical movement and mental challenge is the secret to a happy, well-behaved pup.
Even short bursts of focused fun can help burn off energy and prevent frustration.
Enrichment ideas:
Brisk walks twice a day
Interactive games or mini-agility
Learning new tricks—Yorkies are smart!
Feeding and nutrition.
Feeding your Yorkshire Terrier the right dog food helps avoid tummy trouble and energy crashes.
Feeding guidelines:
Adult dog: ½–1 cup of dry kibble daily, split into meals
Yorkie puppies: They are especially prone to hypoglycaemia—feed 3–4 times a day
Curious about how their diet affects digestion? Read our guide on understanding dog poop colour.
Common health issues in Yorkshire Terriers.
Pet insurance for Yorkshire Terriers.
A family dog like the Yorkie benefits from Lifetime pet insurance. With so many potential health concerns in such a tiny frame, being covered gives you peace of mind. Get your Yorkshire Terrier covered today and:
Protect against unexpected vet bills
Support your dog through long-term care
Access expert advice from UK-based vets 24/7 with Joii
Want help with early training and socialisation? Read our guide to socialising your puppy.
Final thoughts.
The tiny Yorkshire Terrier packs a punch. Charming, brave, and loyal to the end.
Whether you’re drawn to their stunning coats, bold personalities, or history as a proud Terrier breed, they make brilliant companions for the right home.
Just remember: every dog is different. With the right care, grooming, nutrition, and support, your Yorkie can live a long lifespan full of love and tail wags.