Yorkshire Terrier or York

One of the most well-liked small dog breeds worldwide is the Yorkshire Terrier, sometimes known as the York. These tiny dogs, who are well-known for their lively personalities and adorable appearance, fill their owners’ homes with joy. But this breed is unique for many other reasons besides just their adorable appearance.

Yorkies are small dogs with big personalities. They are energetic, fearless, and bold, which makes them great companions for both single people and families. They often develop close relationships with their owners because they are affectionate and love attention.

In addition, Yorkshire Terriers are renowned for having silky, opulent coats that need to be regularly groomed to maintain their best appearance. However, if they take good care of their coats, they can become one of their most striking features and have the glitzy appearance for which they are renowned.

Feature	Description
Size	Small, usually 7-8 inches tall
Weight	Typically around 7 pounds
Coat	Long, silky, and straight
Temperament	Energetic, confident, and affectionate
Exercise	Needs daily walks and playtime
Training	Smart but can be stubborn, needs patience
Lifespan	12-15 years
Care	Requires regular grooming

Characteristics of the breed

History of the origin of the species

Yorkshire Terriers first appeared in the 18th and 19th centuries, not too long ago. The question of who and why bred the breed remains unanswered. There are various theories. One of them claimed that the first modern Yorkie ancestors were bred by West Riding mine workers to help the dogs locate gas accumulations and catch rats. Due to their small size, these terriers could be carried around in a jacket and work clothes, allowing them to avoid the mines’ animal ban.

The second version claims that farmers and peasants bred small terriers to keep rodents out of their homes. Large dog ownership was forbidden by feudal lords in order to prevent hunting and poaching on their property. These little companions became excellent rat trappers as well as friends. Their moniker was Waterside Terriers.

These dogs first appeared in the city as a result of active urbanization and industrialization. All tiny farm animals were referred to as "Scottish terriers," and eventually breed separation and active selection started. Thus, York’s ancestors can be regarded as:

• Clydeysdale Terriers;
• Paisley Terriers;
• Cairo Terriers;
• Skye Terriers.

Only the Skye Terrier was recognized as an official breed; the other breeds were only recognized as the unofficial forebears of the Yorkshire Terrier.

Experts surmise that the soft, silky fur of modern Yorkies is a result of selection involving Maltese lapdogs.

The breed’s "father" is a pet called Huddersfield Ben, who was born in landowner Astwood’s home in 1865. She became well-known outside of the city due to the dog’s appearance and personality. And Mrs. Foster purchased her for an enormous amount two years later. Ben rose to prominence in numerous shows and exhibitions and produced offspring whose lineage is still visible in renowned kennels’ stud books. Huddersfield has received 74 awards in total, despite his unusual appearance and weight of nearly 7 kg.

The first breed club was established in 1898 after the dogs were officially recognized in 1886. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1874 after it had arrived in the country earlier.

Following World War II, interest in Yorkshire Terriers increased as a result of the public’s discovery of the canine hero Smoky’s exploits. She experienced the war alongside her master: she paratrooped with him, flew in a combat aircraft, and twice saved his life. This dog received service stars for participating in 12 operations, according to the archives. Smoky rose to fame in the media following the war. There are currently roughly six monuments built in her memory.

As of 2011, Yorkies are the second most popular breed overall, according to statistics. In first place, labrador retrievers are still.

Distinctive features

The main characteristic that makes these ornamental dogs memorable is their long hair, which can extend below the paw tips and divide the animal from nose to tail. Standard Yorks and mini-Yorks differ in size. The primary factor is weight; standard pets can weigh up to 3.2 kg, while tiny pets weigh no more than 2 kg.

The current members of this breed are similar to their larger ancestors, who were capable of gaining up to 10 kg. In fact, some of them are significantly bigger than their peers, which is regarded as a qualifying flaw.

Since 2004, the new standard has been in place. It explains why tail docking is appropriate and permits it. Additionally, it states that no dog may be bred again if it does not meet the requirements for outward appearance.

• Head small, flat skull. Pronounced stop. Head and muzzle lengths are proportional.
• Muzzle not long, straight, rounded towards the nose. Scissor bite, full set of teeth. Incisors are vertical, no gap between the fangs. Lips are small, not flew, well pigmented with black.
• Nose small. Color – only black.
• Eyes medium size, set at the level of the stop, rounded shape. Not too prominent. Color – dark brown.
• Ears small, set high, but not wide. Stand upright, covered with thick, straight hair.
• Body strong, although compact. Straight back, oval ribs. Neck long. Croup is straight. Withers are well defined. Chest is narrow, medium depth.
• Tail can be docked or undocked. Docked to the middle, the coat should remain long. Set on the line of the back, raised higher when active.
• Limbs straight with pronounced knee and hock joints. Paws are rounded with strong black claws.
• Coat long, straight, not wavy. Silky, shiny and smooth, not fluffy and not hard.
• Color steel or black from the withers to the tail. On the chest and paws honey-silver or warm brown. Muzzle and head either honey brown or silver-brown.

Only coat structure, color, and size are currently strictly evaluated at exhibitions. If a deviation from anatomical norms does not negatively impact the health of the dog, it may go unnoticed.

A particular kind of muzzle known as "baby face" Breeders find it popular, but it is not part of the standard. Large eyes and a short muzzle are the pet’s distinguishing features, which add to its cuteness.

Photo of an adult dog

Photo of puppies

Features of character and behavior

Like all terriers, yorkies have unique personalities. On the other hand, they are lively and upbeat despite being independent and stubborn. These animals frequently take on the disposition of their owners. It is typically very difficult to predict what the puppy will turn into as it gets older. Even though a child can inherit traits from their parents, it all comes down to training and upbringing.

Advantages

1. Like all dogs, the Yorkshire terriers are incredibly devoted to the owner and family. They can choose a “leader”, but they will love everyone the same. Can be an excellent companion, a partner for running and sports. Such pets are always active and cheerful, ready to play all day.
2. Children are good, but they are not advised to leave the kids. This will be dangerous for the dog, because a child can accidentally push, hit, or drop the pet.
3. Yorkies are very smart. They are easy to train and understand their owner at a glance. Many representatives of the breed participate in circus acts and street programs, take first places in agility sports.

Disadvantages

• Many breeders forget that they have not bought a toy, but a dog. Yorkshire terriers have a bright temperament, such a pet needs to be raised and trained from puppyhood. Otherwise, the York will consider itself the main one, will begin to manipulate the owners and be cunning.
• This breed is characterized as clean, but this is far from true. Trash cans, puddles, rotting food – entertainment for every terrier. They love to dig, roll around, sniff, lick everything they see. They really need to be watched during walks.
• They do not feel their miniature size. Experts call this the "Napoleon complex". Yorkies will bully all pets, regardless of their age, breed and size. They love to bark and sort things out. In addition, they always strive to protect their territory and their owners. They are often overly aggressive.
• Males are more prone to unbalanced behavior. They fiercely fight for their toys, food, and leadership position in the company of other dogs. They can bark at passers-by for no apparent reason.
• Prone to escape. Yorkshire terriers do often run away and get lost. They chase cats, pigeons, and are attracted to various smells. If the pet has not yet been trained to obey commands, it is better to walk it on a leash.
• Gluttonous. Yorkies are not prone to obesity, but they have an excellent appetite. If you do not set limits on food consumption (portion size and number of feedings), then pets will constantly beg. Without training, they will become impudent: climb into the plate, jump on the table, whine.
• They do not like small pets, they treat them like prey. They also rarely get along with males.

Care and maintenance

Purchasing a long-haired dog requires the owner to have faith in his own abilities because upkeep involves both financial and physical expenses.

However, the dog may be trimmed in a way that suits the breeder if it does not compete in exhibitions. Yorkshire terriers are hypoallergenic; they don’t shed or release smells. It is not advisable to walk your pet after training them to use the restroom indoors. Terriers are indoor animals; they cannot live outside.

Prior to the puppy moving in, you will need to buy a bed, toys, shampoos, brushes, bowls on stands, and special insulated clothes in addition to picking out a spot for it.

Nutrition

Allergies affect Yorkshire terriers. Additionally, as they age or receive poor nutrition, their coat color may also deteriorate. For them, a well-balanced diet is particularly crucial. It shouldn’t contain:

1. Pork (or dry food with pork);
2. Butter;
3. Milk (after 3 months);
4. Sweets and flour;
5. Potatoes and corn;
6. Bones;
7. Citrus and exotic fruits.

Due to ease of use, canned food or dry by-products are preferred by many breeders for feeding their pets. Numerous lines cater to various age groups of dogs, and separate diets for expectant mothers and hypoallergenic foods have also been developed. These products typically come with all the vitamins and minerals a dog needs. But not all manufacturers are truthful with their customers: there can be significant differences between the declared and actual composition, which can result in allergies or digestive problems. In any case, you should only feed small breeds ultra-premium food, ideally holistic (free of grains).

Although natural feeding is more problematic, it is thought to be healthier for dogs because they are genetically predisposed to this type of food. Meat products (which make up 50–60% of the daily diet) must be served along with vegetables, fruits, eggs, fermented milk products, boiled sea fish without bones, and porridge (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal).

There should always be access to clean water. The veterinarian suggests giving puppies vitamins from an early age, but specifically which ones?

Feed a puppy five to six times a day, and an adult York two times. The amount of food varies based on how active the dog is, but it typically doesn’t go over a human handful. food that is medium-liquid and at room temperature.

Health

Notwithstanding the numerous illnesses they have picked up throughout the breeding process, Yorkshire terriers are thought to be a generally healthy breed. They have a long lifespan—11 to 15 years—and can continue to be active into old age if given the right care.

Prone to food poisoning and other illnesses, but they rapidly recover from these conditions with prompt medical attention. Never overlook pet vaccinations, even with thorough house maintenance.

Vaccinations

Puppy vaccinations on time are essential for building a robust defense against harmful viral infections. In the nursery, in addition to receiving two vaccinations, a veterinary passport and pedigree are initiated.

1. The first vaccination is carried out when the puppy reaches 8-9 weeks . It contains drugs against enteritis, coronavirus, plague, leptospirosis, hepatitis.
2. Repeat the procedure after 2 weeks, then at 4 months and at 12 . Annual renewal is required.

An anti-rabies vaccination is also regarded as a crucial immunization (at 6-7 months and annually), and a dog cannot exit the country without it.

There are various vaccination guidelines:

1. It is prohibited to walk your pet before the second vaccination;
2. Quarantine is required (14 days after each procedure);
3. All vaccinations are carried out only in veterinary clinics by experienced specialists;
4. The puppy must be absolutely healthy;
5. 2 weeks before vaccination, it is necessary to clean the dog from worms with medication;
6. Nursing and pregnant bitches, males immediately after mating are not allowed;
7. If negative symptoms last more than one day, you must contact the clinic.

Diseases

Yorks are prone to a variety of hereditary illnesses, the majority of which are inherited from their parents; however, some issues may also arise from inadequate care:

• Allergies and dermatitis (reaction to food or shampoos);
• Partial or complete baldness;
• Eye diseases (cataracts, glaucoma);
• Dislocations of joints and kneecaps, fractures (due to excessive physical activity or careless handling);
• Kidney and genitourinary diseases;
• Breathing problems (often in "baby-face" pets);
• Digestive tract problems (due to improper diet);
• Hernias.

If treated properly and promptly, these illnesses are usually curable and do not present a significant risk.

Walking

1. This breed can do without walking. But for the proper development of the skeleton and muscle tissue, you need to walk the dog 2-3 times a day for 30-40 minutes. Socialization of the pet is an important aspect in education. After the second vaccination, the puppy can be introduced to similar small dogs and even trained together.
2. Very often, show pets are deprived of the joy of walks and games because of their long hair. Owners rarely allow them to leave the house, or even the aviary. Many dogs turn into toys, which should not happen.
3. Yorks love active recreation, they happily run after sticks and balls, chase pigeons and dig the ground. For this, their fur is cut short.

Coat care

• The Yorkshire Terrier does not have an undercoat, like other dogs. Their fur is long and soft, often gets tangled and collects debris. Therefore, you need to comb your pet with a metal comb with long teeth 2-3 times a day.
• If the dog is not a show dog, it is cut 2-3 times a year, which makes care easier. Otherwise, long "hair" is curled on papillotes. It is customary to collect the fur from the eyes and muzzle in a ponytail at the level of the ears, but many owners cut it off.

• You need to bathe such a pet once every 6-7 days with a special shampoo for Yorkies or a soft one children"s. Then the coat is lubricated with a balm-conditioner for dogs. After bathing, the fur should be dried with a hairdryer and combed thoroughly.
• Many representatives of the breed have increased tear production. Therefore, the eyes and the area around the mucous membranes need to be wiped periodically.
• Teeth are brushed 2-3 times a month, claws are trimmed with the same regularity. Ears are examined for debris and excess secretions, during trimming, hair is plucked from the auricles.

Dogs are treated for ticks and fleas during the summer months using specific solutions or shampoos. Pets are dressed in protective overalls during the winter and in unclean weather.

Mating

Yorkie mating does not always result in breeding because of their enormous global population. In one way or another, the male and female must fulfill the requirements, receive the necessary vaccinations, and have a veterinarian check them for diseases.

• Puberty comes at 8-9 months . At this time, males begin to mount, and girls go into heat.
• Mating can only be done at 20 months of life, when the female goes into her third heat. The readiness of the bitch can be determined by several signs: the discharge becomes lighter, the loop swells, the girl spreads her paws wide and throws her tail.
• For the first mating, you can invite a specialist who will help the pets. The female is brought to the male"s territory, where the acquaintance should take place. The dogs need to be given 10-15 minutes to sniff each other and get used to each other. When the bitch is ready, she will let the male mount.
• The act does not last long – 10 minutes, and the lock from 15 to 30 . The girl must be held under the stomach, not allowing her to sit down. The male is sent to the loop. Due to the difference in size, the boy may simply not reach, in this case he needs to be planted.
• Mating is repeated after 2 days .

Key points in training

1. First of all, the puppy needs to be taught that the main person in the house is a person. Otherwise, the pet will begin to manipulate all the household members. He must know the feeding schedule, walking, know where the places for sleeping, eating and toilet are.
2. By 3-4 months, the pet will have learned the nickname well, then you can learn the basic commands:"near", "place", "no", "sit" and "quiet". At this age, communication skills with other people and dogs should be instilled.
3. A little later (7-12 months) you can start training the puppy in agility (obstacle course) for low-growing dogs. Rough training methods are not welcome. Yorks are quite capable, they need to be explained the task and lured with a treat. All training should be done while playing.

How to choose a puppy, price

• You can take a Yorkshire Terrier at any age, starting from 2-3 months . Little puppies are very cute, but they need special care. Many experts recommend taking a "teenager" (6-7 months), when the dog already knows the toilet place and its nickname.
• You can buy a Yorkie either in a kennel or from someone else. It is important to make sure the puppy is healthy and fully compliant with the standard. A good breeder will present documents for the dog and tell you about the conditions of its keeping. The correct request would be to look at the puppy"s parents.
• The price depends on the class of the dog and the status of the kennel. Pet-class Yorkies (without a pedigree) will cost 5,000-12,000 rubles, breed-class (approved for breeding) – 15,000-30,000 rubles, and show-class (children of champions intended for exhibitions) – from 30,000 rubles.

Mini Yorkshire Terrier

The main way that mini Yorkies are different from regular ones is in size. Even though they weigh less than two kilograms, they are still accepted as legitimate members of the breed and are not excluded. Additionally, there are super-mini Yorkies, which weigh between 1.3 and 1.5 kg.

This breed of terrier is known for its softer, calmer, and more amiable disposition. They are less obstinate, less arrogant, less active, and less intrusive. Their hunting instincts are also far weaker than those of normal people. It is simpler to train such pets to use the litter box. Because of their small size, they are easy to transport and can accompany you on any trip. Because the mini’s fur is shorter and thinner, it requires less maintenance.

Mini-dogs’ sickliness is their biggest drawback. They are extremely delicate and far weaker than regular terriers. For such a pet, a fall from a low sofa can be catastrophic. The dogs are timid, have a hard time with loneliness, and are frequently depressed. They should choose their food more carefully because it’s important to follow all the regulations. prone to mood swings.

In comparison to standard Yorkies, mini Yorkies are more costly and more difficult to locate in nurseries. Not all mini-girls can carry and give birth to puppies due to their size.

Getting a Yorkshire Terrier as a pet fills your house with happiness and vitality. Their playfulness keeps things lively and their small size makes them ideal for apartments. They adapt well to living in both large and small spaces, and they enjoy socializing.

Owning a Yorkie, though, also necessitates regular training and grooming. Their long, silky coats require maintenance, and early training guarantees that they develop into well-mannered adult companions. The secret to ensuring your Yorkie flourishes is patience and time.

In the end, if you’re searching for a devoted, loving, and active dog, a Yorkshire Terrier is a great option. They grow from being a pet to a real member of the family with the correct care and attention.

The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as "York," is a small but courageous dog with a big personality who is renowned for its loving disposition, intelligence, and boundless energy. They are great companions despite their small size, fitting in well with both apartment living and more active lifestyles. Yorks are devoted, enjoy being the center of attention, and do best in a family environment. These little dogs are a popular choice for people searching for a loving and energetic pet because of their unique silky coat and self-assured demeanor.

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