Yorkshire Terrier: Is This Tiny Breed Right for You?

If you're looking for a dog that's big on love and affection and short on space, there is no better breed than the Yorkshire Terrier. Though they tend to be a bit on the expensive side, they are more than worth the cost.

The saying "big things come in small packages" definitely applies to the Yorkshire Terrier. More commonly known as a "Yorkie," the breed brings to mind a pocket dog peeking his long-haired head (complete with bow) out of a woman's purse. Don't let the Yorkie's tiny size fool you. This dog is big on personality. One of the most disease resistant of all toy breeds, the Yorkie typically weighs anywhere from 3 to 7 pounds. Black and tan as a puppy, the Yorkie matures to a beautiful long-haired blue-silver and gold, making the breed one of the most beautiful. At such a small size, the Yorkie is perfect for those living in big cities and apartment dwellers, but this is not your average lap dog.

Yorkies are highly intelligent dogs, and therefore, independent. This makes them, at times, seem to be stubborn and not exactly interested in pleasing their owners. Due to the fact that this breed was originally bred to rid coalmines of rats, this is one breed that thinks on its own. They are self-confident and full of self-importance, giving the Yorkie almost a regal presence, even at its tiny size.

Yorkies are very alert, loyal, and are quick learners when trained with firmness and consistency. They typically have a very sweet disposition and love to shower their owners in kisses and affection. They love attention, but as independent creatures, they could manage for periods of time on their own.

Yorkies are small, but their personality is bigger than any St. Bernard. They're fiesty, courageous, and full of energy. They do not rest for long, and do not need a large place to run around and exercise. If the Yorkie is taken out of the home, it must be put on a leash and kept under a watchful eye, as the Yorkie's "big dog in a little body" personality has been responsible in the past for getting the breed injured. In a multiple-dog home, the Yorkie is the boss and is very bossy, which is a terrier trait. This bossiness can turn to agression when the Yorkie is placed around a dog it doesn't know, regardless of the other dog's size.

This temper can be a bit of a problem, but the problem that most have with a Yorkie is the grooming. Yorkies are high maintenance and time must be taken to groom the dog daily. If you're not willing to spend at least a half-hour brushing and caring for the dog's coat, then a Yorkie is probably not for you.

If you think you know exactly what type of dog you want, please be sure. Do your research. Talk to breeders, rescue groups, and your local animal shelters before you make your decision. It's sad to think of, but many dogs that are put to sleep every year were once puppies that people thought they wanted.