GROUP 1 - TOYS

Brief History
For such a glamour breed, the Yorkshire Terrier comes from humble beginnings.  Small enough to work around the looms of the textile factories during the middle of the 19th Century, he was developed by crossing a number of Terrier varieties that existed at that time. He hails from North England, especially in the County of Yorkshire, hence the name Yorkshire Terrier. The early Yorkshire Terriers could be as large as six kgs and were used, like other Terrier breeds, to rid mills, factories and homes of rats. Over time, breeders produced a smaller, more beautiful dog that was a household pet and one of the ultimate show dogs, rather than a rat killer.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 12 to 16 years.

Temperament
Do not let the Yorkshire Terrier’s daintiness fool you. Tenacious, feisty, brave, and sometimes bossy, he exhibits all the traits of a true terrier. He can be determined with a mind of his own, but faithful and loyal to his human family. Yorkshire Terriers thrive on human companionship and will happily be included in all family activities. They have a sense of fun and enjoy a game. Thanks to their alertness, they make a good watchdog and will bark if strangers come to the home.

General Breed Description
The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact, toy-size terrier, diminutive in size, whose crowning glory is a floor-length, silky coat of steel blue and a rich golden tan.  Although Yorkshire Terriers are of small stature, they are generally a robust and healthy little toy terrier. The dog’s high head carriage and confident manner should give the appearance self-importance. Yorkshire Terriers have a coat that does not shed or moult, so therefore they are a hypo-allergenic (low allergy causing) breed.

Coat and Care Requirements
The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat will generally grow to the ground and needs to be brushed for an hour every second day to keep it free of tangles. The hair on the head needs to be tied up to keep it out of the eyes. If an owner wants less work, then the coat can be kept trimmed short. This way, 20 minutes brushing twice a week should be sufficient. Even when short, the coat is not weather resistant, therefore Yorkshire Terriers should live indoors with periods outside for exercise. Yorkshire Terriers will happily go for a long walk with their owner or if the backyard is of sufficient size, then adequate exercise can be gained running within.

Size
Weight: 3.2kgs. 

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about the breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. There are a fairly small number of hereditary problems that can affect Yorkshire Terriers. Varying degrees of luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps) do occur in the breed. 

Suitability
Yorkshire Terriers are suitable for people of all ages, with or without children, but it is best if children are a little older to avoid accidents and rough handling. It is paramount that a prospective owner has sufficient time to look after and provide social stimulation for their Yorkshire Terrier puppy.  It is not ideal for a Yorkshire Terrier’s disposition to be constantly left alone for long periods of time. If everyone in the household is away during a busy workday, another option is to have two Yorkshire Terriers!

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.  With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/33