Matt Matasci · Updated June 26, 2025
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small breed with a silky coat and a lively spirit. You will quickly notice their bold personality, despite their small size. Yorkies generally weigh around 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 8 inches tall. Their coat is fine, straight, and usually blue and tan in color.
Some key traits of the Yorkshire Terrier:
- Very intelligent and alert
- Confident and curious
- Loyal to their family
- Needs regular grooming due to a long, silky coat
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Silky, hypoallergenic |
| Energy Level | Active and playful |
| Training Needs | Responds well to positive reinforcement |
Your Yorkie can adapt well to apartment living, and because their coat sheds very little, they are often a good choice for people with allergies. Yorkies began as working dogs in 19th-century England, bred for pest control in factories. They are now cherished companions known for their love of cuddling and their spunky attitude. Owning a Yorkshire Terrier means providing regular grooming, daily walks, and positive social experiences. With the right care, your Yorkie will be a loving and loyal member of your family.
Is This the Right Breed for You?
Yorkshire Terriers, often called Yorkies, are small dogs with big personalities. You’ll notice they are lively and often very attached to their families. If you live in an apartment or have limited space, a Yorkie can be a good match. They don’t need large yards and are generally happy with indoor play and short walks.
Key traits:
- Size: Small, usually under 7 pounds
- Coat: Long, fine, and silky
- Temperament: Brave, affectionate, sometimes stubborn
| Yorkie Pros | Yorkie Cons |
|---|---|
| Very loyal | Can be barkers |
| Good for small homes | Need regular grooming |
| Usually easy to travel with | Can be wary of strangers |
Caring for a Yorkie takes time. Their hair needs brushing to keep from tangling. Grooming visits are often needed to keep their coat trimmed. Yorkies may not be the best pick for homes with very young children. Their small size makes them more fragile, and they like gentle handling. If you want a confident dog who enjoys attention and will stay close to your side, a Yorkie could be a nice fit. If the idea of regular grooming or training feels stressful, you may want to consider other breeds.
Where to Buy a Yorkshire Terrier Puppy or Dog
You have several choices when looking for a Yorkshire Terrier puppy or dog. Each has pros and cons. It’s important to use trustworthy sources to make sure you get a healthy and happy pet.
Reputable breeders are one of the most popular options. Good breeders provide health checks, vaccinations, and answer questions. You can start your search on the AKC Marketplace or Puppy Spot.
Some websites let you search by location, price, or age. Rescues and shelters sometimes have Yorkies available for adoption. Adoption is a good way to give a home to a dog in need. Check local animal shelters and rescue groups for updates.
Comparison Table: Option Highlights
| Option | Health Checks | Puppy Age Choice | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reputable Breeder | Yes | Usually yes | High |
| Rescue/Shelter | Sometimes | Maybe limited | Lower |
| Online Puppy Sites | Varies | Yes | Varies |
Take time to visit the breeder or shelter in person. Ask for health records, see the puppy’s living area, and meet the parents if possible. This helps you make a safe and informed choice.
How to Choose a Reputable Breeder or Platform
When searching for a Yorkshire Terrier puppy, start by looking for breeders who are open about their breeding practices. Good breeders will welcome your questions and provide health records for their puppies. Ask to see the puppy’s living conditions. A clean and caring environment means the puppies are more likely to be healthy and well-adjusted.
Key qualities of reputable breeders:
- Provide medical records and vaccination history
- Allow you to visit and meet both the puppy and its parents
- Breed only healthy dogs and screen for common health problems
- Do not pressure you into a quick sale
It’s helpful to use trusted platforms to find breeders. For example, the AKC Marketplace lists Yorkshire Terrier breeders who follow specific standards.
Red flags to watch for:
| Bad Signs | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Refusing visits | May hide poor conditions or unhealthy dogs |
| No health guarantees | Risk of sick puppy or genetic issues |
| Extreme low prices | Could signal scams or unethical breeding |
Check reviews and ask for references from previous puppy buyers. Reliable breeders have a history of satisfied owners and will answer your questions honestly.
Getting Your New Pup Home
Bringing home your Yorkshire Terrier puppy is exciting, but it takes some planning. You need to create a safe, welcoming environment before your puppy arrives. Puppy-proof your home by putting away small objects, cleaning up cords, and blocking off dangerous areas. Yorkies are curious and small, so they can get into tight spaces or chew on things they should not.
Make a checklist of items to have ready:
- Food and water bowls
- Puppy food
- Collar and leash
- Crate or pen
- Bed and soft blanket
- Toys for chewing and comfort
Set up a quiet spot for your puppy to relax. Choose a spot away from heavy foot traffic and loud noises. This will help your puppy feel safe and adjust faster. Before you let your Yorkie explore, take a walk through your home on your hands and knees to spot potential hazards. Remove household cleaners, houseplants, and anything breakable.
If you pick up your puppy from a reputable breeder, ask about their routine and favorite toys. Keeping some things familiar can make moving less stressful. Getting the right setup before your puppy arrives gives your Yorkie a smooth start in their new home.
Content Writer at CitizenShipper. I’ve also been published on The Penny Hoarder, Mommy Poppins and mxdwn.
