8 things to know before getting a Yorkshire terrier
Thinking about getting a Yorkshire Terrier? You already suspect they're more than a cute lap accessory — and you're right.
Here's the truth: Yorkies pack the personality of a dog ten times their size into a body that fits in your handbag.
Below, you'll get the 8 things that actually matter before you bring one home — the loyalty, the grooming, the surprising hunter's streak, and the health quirks nobody warns first-time owners about.
Let's dig in.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Affection | |
| Apartment Fit | |
| Grooming | |
| Trainability | |
| Alone Time |
First up — the personality that surprises everyone.
1. They're Tiny, But They Don't Know It
Yorkies average around **7 pounds**, but no one told them they're small.
They strut around with the swagger of a dog several times their size. It's charming — and occasionally a little ridiculous.
That boldness makes them excellent little watchdogs. They'll alert you the second something seems off.
But here's the catch:
Without early socialization, that confidence can tip into yappiness — a pup convinced every stranger, delivery driver, and doorbell is a threat.
“A Yorkie carries itself like a Great Dane in a fun-size wrapper.”
So where does all that attitude come from?
2. Lap Dog By Day, Rodent Hunter By History
Yorkies weren't always pampered companions.
They were bred in **1800s England** to hunt rats in textile mills — a scrappy, working-class origin behind that glamorous coat.
That's why they're so agile, quick, and stubbornly determined. It's baked into their DNA.
So don't be shocked when your indoor cuddle-bug suddenly locks onto a bug — or a dust bunny — and goes full hunt mode across the living room.
1800s
Working origins
Bred in northern England to control rats in textile mills and mines.
Late 1800s
Rising status
Their looks and charm won over Victorian high society, shifting them from workers to companions.
Today
Lap dog with instincts
Now a beloved apartment companion — but that prey drive still flickers to life.
Now, about that head-turning coat.
3. That Beautiful Coat Isn't Just For Show
A Yorkie's coat is fine, silky, and closer to **human hair** than typical dog fur.
The upside? They barely shed and are often a good fit for people with mild allergies.
The downside? That coat demands regular upkeep or it turns into a tangled mess fast.
- Brush daily — or every other day at minimum — to prevent mats
- Trim around the eyes and ears to keep things clean and clear
- Bathe every few weeks with a gentle dog shampoo
- Skip brushing for a week and let tangles set in
- Use human shampoo — it dries out their skin
And yes — expect compliments. A well-kept Yorkie coat is a genuine head-turner.
Here's something that catches new owners off guard.
4. They're Not Built For Winter
Yorkies have **no undercoat**, which means they get cold fast.
If you live somewhere chilly, long snowy walks are a no-go.
Invest in a warm sweater or jacket instead. Once they're cozy, they'll trot around like they own the sidewalk again.
Now let's talk about the heart of the breed.
5. Incredibly Loyal — Sometimes To A Fault
Yorkies form deep, velcro-like bonds with their people.
Live alone? They'll be your shadow. Big family? They'll adopt everyone. They're usually great with kids and other pets — as long as introductions are done properly.
But there's a catch worth taking seriously:
**Separation anxiety.** These little dogs hate being left alone for long stretches.
Living alone
GreatYou get a devoted companion who wants to be by your side.
Families with kids
With careGreat with gentle, supervised children — they're too small for rough play.
Other pets
With careFine with proper, gradual introductions.
Full-time away from home
TrickyLong solo days can trigger anxiety and barking.
Quick poll
How long is your Yorkie (or future Yorkie) home alone on a typical day?
Good news for busy people — they don't need a marathon.
6. Low Exercise Needs, High Energy Bursts
Yorkies don't need a big yard or hours outdoors.
**Two brisk 15–20 minute walks** a day plus some indoor play keeps them happy.
But don't mistake them for couch potatoes. Between naps, they'll zoom around the house and chase toys with cartoon-level enthusiasm.
Short daily walks
Two brisk 15–20 minute walks cover most of their physical needs.
Indoor play
Fetch down a hallway or tug games burn energy without leaving home.
Puzzle toys
Feed their hunter's brain with treat-dispensing puzzles.
Zoomie space
Clear a small loop so mid-day energy bursts have somewhere to go.
Ready to teach them something? Here's the winning approach.
7. Smart And Surprisingly Trainable — If You Do It Right
Unlike some hard-headed terriers, Yorkies are genuinely eager to please.
The secret is **positive reinforcement.** Harsh discipline backfires — it just makes them dig in their heels.
How to train a Yorkie
- Keep sessions short and funFive to ten minutes beats one long, boring slog.
- Reward generouslyUse treats, praise, and play to mark every win.
- Start simple, then buildNail basic commands before layering on tricks.
- Stay consistentEveryone in the house should use the same cues and rules.
They're quick learners, and training doubles as bonding time — a win for both of you.
Untrained small dogs often develop the worst habits — barking, snapping, guarding — precisely because owners let it slide. Yorkies thrive on structure.
They can be tricky because of their size and love of cozy spots, but with a consistent schedule, crate training, and rewards, most learn reliably.
Finally — the long game of Yorkie ownership.
8. Long Life, But Some Health Concerns To Watch
With good care, Yorkies can live **15+ years** — sometimes close to 20.
That's a wonderful, long companionship. But like every breed, they come with a few things to keep on your radar.
Eye problems
Cataracts and dry eye can develop — watch for cloudiness or excess tearing.
Liver & heart concerns
Regular vet checks help catch these early.
Cushing's disease
A hormonal condition worth monitoring as they age.
Luxating patella
A slipping kneecap common in small breeds — look for skipping or limping.
Dental issues
Very common in tiny breeds. Daily brushing is a must, not a maybe.
15–20 yrs
Typical Yorkie lifespan with good care
So — is a Yorkie the right dog for you?
So, Is A Yorkie Right For You?
Let's weigh it honestly.
Pros
Great fit if you want...
- A small, affectionate dog with a huge personality
- A low-shedding coat that's kind to mild allergies
- An apartment-friendly size
- A loyal shadow who adores your company
Cons
Think twice if you...
- Are away from home 8+ hours a day
- Don't want daily brushing and regular grooming
- Prefer a hands-off, independent breed
- Live somewhere very cold without gear for them
Yorkies need attention, grooming, and a little training.
In return? You get a spunky, devoted companion who wants to be at your side for every moment.
“Once a Yorkie curls up in your lap after a burst of zoomies, it's hard to imagine life without one.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, with a caveat. They're small, affectionate, and low-shedding, which suits beginners — but they need daily grooming, early socialization, and can't be left alone for long. If you can commit to those, they're a wonderful first dog.
Most do best with under 4–6 hours alone. They're prone to separation anxiety, so for longer days plan a sitter, doggy daycare, or a midday walker.
They can. Their watchdog instinct means they alert to everything. Early socialization and rewarding calm, quiet behavior keeps the barking manageable.
Yes, with gentle, supervised kids. Because they're so small and delicate, they're better suited to older children who understand how to handle a tiny dog calmly.
Generally yes, especially with proper, gradual introductions. Just remember their hunting heritage means they may chase smaller animals, so supervise early interactions.
For most owners it's the grooming commitment and the separation anxiety. That silky coat needs regular care, and these dogs genuinely want to be with you.
Many mellow out around 1 to 2 years old as they leave adolescence. That said, expect lifelong energy bursts and zoomies — it's part of their charm.
Often, yes. With no undercoat, they get cold quickly. A warm sweater or jacket for chilly walks keeps them comfortable and confident outdoors.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.