Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier: Key Differences Compared

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have distinct backgrounds and traits. These tiny pups differ in their origins, popularity, and physical features. Let’s take a look at the differences and similarities between Chihuahuas and Yorkies.

Physical Characteristics

• Chihuahuas have round “apple” heads and big eyes. Their ears stand up straight. They can have short or long hair.
• Yorkies have small, flat heads and V-shaped ears. Their hair is long and silky. It’s often kept in a long, flowing coat.
• Both breeds are tiny. Chihuahuas usually weigh 2-6 pounds. Yorkies typically weigh 4-7 pounds.
• Chihuahuas come in many colors. Yorkies are usually black and tan, but their coat changes as they age.

Temperament and Behavior

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have distinct personalities that set them apart. Both breeds are known for their big attitudes in small packages.

Chihuahua Temperament

• Chihuahuas are feisty and confident. They often act like they’re much bigger than they are.
• Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and may bark to alert you of perceived threats. 
• These dogs are intelligent and can be trained, but they can also be stubborn. 
• Chihuahuas don’t always get along well with other pets or young children.

Yorkshire Terrier Temperament

• Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are lively and affectionate. 
• Yorkies are brave and curious. 
• These dogs are generally friendly and outgoing. 
• Yorkies are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. 
• Despite their small size, Yorkies can be good watchdogs. They’ll often bark to alert you of visitors or unusual noises.

Health and Lifespan

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have different health concerns and lifespans. Knowing these can help you provide better care for your pet.

Common Health Issues in Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are prone to certain health problems. These include:

• Dental issues due to their small mouths
• Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation)
• Heart problems, especially heart murmurs
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Chihuahuas may also experience eye problems like glaucoma. Their small size makes them susceptible to injuries from falls or rough handling. Despite these concerns, Chihuahuas often enjoy a long lifespan. They can live 14 to 18 years with proper care.

Common Health Issues in Yorkshire Terriers

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, face their own set of health challenges:

• Dental problems, similar to Chihuahuas
• Collapsed trachea, causing breathing difficulties
• Portosystemic shunt, a liver condition
• Luxating patella, affecting their knees

Yorkies may also develop eye issues like cataracts. Their long coats can lead to skin allergies if not properly groomed. The average lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier is 13 to 16 years. With good care, many Yorkies live well into their teens.

Preventative Care

You can help your Chihuahua or Yorkie stay healthy with these steps:

1. Regular vet check-ups
2. Dental care, including brushing teeth
3. Proper diet to maintain a healthy weight
4. Exercise appropriate for their size
5. Grooming to prevent skin issues

For both breeds, watch for signs of hypoglycemia, especially in puppies. Keep them warm and provide frequent, small meals.

Grooming and Maintenance

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have different grooming needs. Their coats require specific care routines, and they shed differently. Let’s look at how to keep these tiny pups looking their best.

Coat Care

• Yorkies have long, silky coats that need daily brushing. You’ll need to brush your Yorkie for 5-10 minutes each day to prevent tangles. 
• Chihuahuas come in short and long coat varieties. Short-haired Chihuahuas need weekly brushing. Long-haired Chihuahuas need brushing 2-3 times a week.

Both breeds need regular baths. Bathe your Yorkie every 2-4 weeks. Chihuahuas can go 4-6 weeks between baths. Use dog-specific shampoo to protect their skin.

Shedding and Allergies

• Yorkies shed very little. Their hair grows like human hair and falls out rarely. This makes them a good choice if you have allergies.
• Chihuahuas shed more than Yorkies. Short-haired Chihuahuas shed year-round. Long-haired Chihuahuas have seasonal shedding.

To control shedding, brush your Chihuahua regularly. Use a deshedding tool during heavy shedding periods. Vacuum often to keep your home fur-free. Both breeds need nail trims every 2-3 weeks. Clean their ears weekly to prevent infections. Brush their teeth daily for good dental health.

Training and Exercise Needs

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have unique training and exercise requirements. Both breeds need consistent training and daily physical activity to stay healthy and well-behaved.

Training Challenges

• Chihuahuas can be stubborn and difficult to train. 
• Yorkshire Terriers are generally easier to train but can be headstrong. 

Consistency is crucial for both Chihuahuas and Yorkies. Short, frequent training sessions work best due to their small size and limited attention spans.

Exercise Requirements

• Yorkshire Terriers need about 30 minutes of exercise daily. 
• Chihuahuas require less exercise, typically 20-30 minutes per day. 

Both breeds benefit from:

• Short walks
• Fetch games
• Puzzle toys
• Gentle play sessions

Be careful not to overexert these small dogs. Watch for signs of fatigue, especially in hot weather. Indoor exercise options are great for both breeds when outdoor conditions aren’t ideal.

Diet and Nutrition

Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have different nutritional needs due to their size and energy levels. You’ll need to adjust their diets accordingly.

• Chihuahuas typically need 40-50 calories per pound of body weight daily. For a 5-pound Chihuahua, that’s about 200-250 calories per day.
• Yorkshire Terriers usually require 150-175 calories per pound of body weight daily. A 7-pound Yorkie would need roughly 1050-1225 calories per day.

Both breeds benefit from high-quality, small breed dog food. Look for options with:

• High protein content (at least 25%)
• Moderate fat content (12-15%)
• Limited fillers and artificial ingredients

Divide their daily food into 2-3 small meals to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Remember to adjust portions based on your dog’s activity level, age, and health status. Regular grooming needs can affect calorie requirements, especially for Yorkies.

Always provide fresh, clean water for both breeds. Monitor their weight and consult your vet if you notice significant changes. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. Choose healthy options like small pieces of lean meat or low-fat dog biscuits.