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Nature

Yorkshire Terrier

What is yorkshire terrier?

· James MacDonald

Key facts

Official name Yorkshire Terrier[3]
Other name Yorkie[1]
Breed type toy dog of terrier type[1]
Origin Yorkshire, England[1]
Origin period 19th century[1]
Breed group Toy[2]

The Yorkshire Terrier is a British toy dog breed of terrier type, also called a Yorkie, originating in Yorkshire, England, in the 19th century.

Context

The Yorkshire Terrier is a toy breed that originated in Yorkshire, England, during the 19th century [1]. It was developed by Scottish weavers who migrated to the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire, crossing various terrier breeds [2]. This breed is one of the smallest terriers and is known for its distinctive tan and steel-grey coat [1]. The Yorkshire Terrier is often compared to other small terriers like the Scottish Terrier and the Jack Russell Terrier, but it is unique in its size and coat colour [1].

Documented claims

  • The Yorkshire Terrier was developed in the English counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire from terrier breeds brought by Scottish weavers who migrated there. [2]
  • It is among the smallest of the terriers and among the smallest of all dog breeds. [1]
  • Its coat is tan on the head and dark steel-grey on the body; no other colour is accepted by The Kennel Club or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. [1]
  • It was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. [2]

Related

Questions and answers

Is a Yorkshire Terrier a good family dog?

Yorkshire Terriers can be good family dogs, but they are small and may not be suitable for very young children due to their delicate size [2].

Is a Yorkie a high maintenance dog?

Yes, Yorkshire Terriers require regular grooming to maintain their long coat, and they may need frequent brushing and occasional professional grooming [1].

Do Yorkshire Terriers bark a lot?

Yorkshire Terriers are known to be alert and may bark frequently, making them good watchdogs but potentially noisy in quiet environments [1].

Sources

  1. Yorkshire terrier — kids.britannica.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. Yorkshire Terrier Fun Facts, Health & Care | Pet Parenting — trupanion.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed — hillspet.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Nature