Yorkshire Terrier Guide: Temperament, Care, Pros & Cons

Yorkshire Terriers, often called Yorkies, are small companion dogs known for their silky coats and confident personalities. Despite their compact size, they historically worked hunting rodents in textile mills. That history contributes to their alertness, determination, and bold temperament.

However, Yorkshire Terriers are not passive lap dogs. They can be vocal, territorial, and require consistent grooming. Before choosing a Yorkie, it’s important to understand both their personality intensity and coat maintenance needs.

This guide is informational and not veterinary advice. Consult a licensed veterinarian for medical concerns.

Size & lifespan

Most Yorkshire Terriers weigh 4–7 pounds and stand approximately 7–8 inches tall at the shoulder.

The average lifespan is typically 11–15 years, with many living into their mid-teens when properly cared for.

Lifestyle Fit

• Apartment Living: Strong fit (with barking management)
• New dog owners: Possible with structure
• Families with older children: Better with older children
• Low-shedding dog breeds: Low shedding (hair-type coat)
• Noise-Sensitive Homes: Challenging

Quick take: Is a Yorkshire Terrier right for you?

Best for

• Apartment or city living
• Owners seeking a small but confident companion
• Households prepared for regular grooming
• People comfortable managing barking tendencies

Not ideal for

• Very young children without supervision
• Owners wanting a naturally quiet dog
• Households unwilling to maintain coat care
• People frequently away from home

Temperament & personality

Yorkshire Terriers are often described as bold, alert, and affectionate.

Confident and spirited

Despite their size, Yorkies often behave as though they are much larger dogs. Compared to calmer small breeds like the Shih Tzu, Yorkies are typically more alert and reactive.

Alert and vocal

Many Yorkshire Terriers bark quickly at unfamiliar sounds or visitors. This watchdog instinct can be useful, but requires early training in shared living environments.

Loyal and bond-focused

Yorkies frequently bond closely with their owners and may become strongly attached to one primary caregiver.

Exercise needs: How much activity does a Yorkshire Terrier need?

Most adult Yorkies benefit from 20–40 minutes of daily activity.

A practical routine may include:

• Short walks
• Indoor play sessions
• Brief obedience training

Indoor adaptability

Because of their small size, Yorkies can meet much of their exercise needs indoors. However, structured engagement remains important to prevent boredom.

Signs of insufficient engagement

• Excessive barking
• Restlessness
• Attention-seeking behavior

Short, consistent sessions usually meet their needs.

For other low-to-moderate energy breeds: Low-Energy Dog Breeds

Shedding & grooming

Yorkshire Terriers are low-shedding but high-grooming.

Do Yorkies shed?

They typically shed very little compared to double-coated breeds. However, loose hair can become trapped in their long coat rather than falling freely.

Compared to heavier shedders like the Pug, Yorkies leave less hair around the home—but grooming time is significantly higher.

Grooming routine

• Daily brushing if coat is kept long
• Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks (common)
• Regular eye cleaning
• Nail trimming and dental care

Many owners choose shorter trims to reduce maintenance.

Training & behavior

Training Yorkshire Terriers requires consistency and patience.

Training difficulty

Generally moderate. They are intelligent but may be strong-willed.

Common behavior challenges

• Frequent barking
• House-training delays
• Guarding favored people or spaces
• “Small-dog syndrome” behaviors if boundaries are inconsistent

Practical training tips

1. Establish consistent household rules early.
2. Reinforce quiet behavior.
3. Use short, reward-based sessions.
4. Socialize with varied environments and people.

Structure helps prevent excessive guarding or reactivity.

Are Yorkshire Terriers good family dogs?

Yorkies can be affectionate companions but may be better suited to households with older children due to their small size and fragility.

Supervision is important to prevent accidental injury.

For more family-oriented breeds: Best Dogs for Families

Are Yorkshire Terriers good for apartments?

Yorkshire Terriers are often well-suited to apartments due to their size. However, barking must be managed proactively.

Apartment living works best if:

• Daily walks are consistent
• Noise training begins early
• Mental stimulation is provided

Size alone does not guarantee quiet behavior.

For more apartment-friendly breeds: Best Dogs for Apartments

Health considerations (high-level)

Yorkshire Terriers may be associated with:

• Patellar luxation
• Tracheal collapse
• Dental disease (common in small breeds)
• Hypoglycemia (especially in very small puppies)

Routine veterinary care and dental hygiene are especially important.

Consult a veterinarian for medical advice.

Cost to own a Yorkshire Terrier

Typical expense categories include:

• Food
• Routine veterinary care
• Professional grooming
• Preventative medications
• Dental care

Grooming and dental care are often the most significant recurring costs.

For budgeting guidance: How Much Does a Dog Cost Per Month?

Similar breeds to compare

If you’re considering a Yorkshire Terrier, you may also compare:

• Shih Tzu
• Dachshund
• Poodle