Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier
Side-by-side comparison of Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.
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Stats at a Glance
| Trait | Chihuahua | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy | Moderate | Moderate |
| Shedding | Low-Moderate | Low-Moderate |
| Grooming | Low | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking | High | High |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Good With Kids | Older kids onlySmall size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children | Depends |
| Good With Dogs | Varies by socializationOften improves with proper early socialization | Depends |
| Daily Exercise | 20–30 min/day | 20–40 min/day |
Quick Verdict
Best for apartments
Similar
Chihuahua: "Yes"Yorkshire Terrier: "Yes"
Best with kids
Yorkshire Terrier
Chihuahua: "Older kids only"Yorkshire Terrier: "Depends"
Easiest to train
Similar
Chihuahua: "Moderate"Yorkshire Terrier: "Moderate"
Lower shedding
Similar
Chihuahua: "Low-Moderate"Yorkshire Terrier: "Low-Moderate"
Lower grooming burden
Chihuahua
Chihuahua: "Low"Yorkshire Terrier: "High"
More active households
Similar
Chihuahua: "Moderate"Yorkshire Terrier: "Moderate"
Verdicts are based on trait ratings. Always evaluate individual dogs and confirm behaviour with the shelter, foster, or rescue organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier better for apartments?
Chihuahua is rated "Yes" for apartment living, while Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Yes". Consider your building's space and noise policies when choosing.
Which breed sheds more, Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier?
Chihuahua has low-moderate shedding. Yorkshire Terrier has low-moderate shedding. Both breeds shed at a similar level.
Are Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers easier to train?
Chihuahua trainability is rated "Moderate" and Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Moderate". Both breeds respond best to early, consistent positive-reinforcement training.
Which needs more exercise, a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier?
A Chihuahua typically needs 20–30 min/day, while a Yorkshire Terrier needs 20–40 min/day. Actual needs vary by individual dog, age, and health.
Which is better with kids, a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier?
Chihuahua is rated "Older kids only" with children (small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children); Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Depends". Supervision and early socialisation are recommended for any breed around young children.
How much grooming does a Chihuahua need compared to a Yorkshire Terrier?
Chihuahua requires low grooming, while Yorkshire Terrier needs high grooming.