The Yorkie is a beloved companion breed that has been around for centuries. The Yorkshire Terrier, commonly known as the “Yorkie” for short, is a small breed of terrier that originated in Yorkshire, England during the 19th century. It is believed that the Yorkie was bred from a combination of several different breeds, including the Skye Terrier, the Waterside Terrier, the Maltese, and even the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. While the Yorkie was initially bred to hunt rats and other small vermin, they quickly became popular as companion dogs.
Today, the Yorkie is one of the most popular breeds of dog, not just in the UK, but all over the world. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature, which makes them an ideal pet for many people. This breed is relatively small, which makes them great for people living in apartments or small homes in the UK.
The personality and characteristics of Yorkies
Yorkie is a spirited and independent breed, with a bold and confident personality. These little dogs are loyal to their owners and are often referred to as “velcro” dogs because they tend to stick to their owners’ sides, they are highly intelligent, and they can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and tasks. Yorkies are an energetic breed with a lot of personality. They may not be the best breed for novice dog owners, as they require a lot of patience and attention. Despite their small size, Yorkies can be quite stubborn and require consistent and persistent training.
The long, silky coats of Yorkies, which come in a range of colours like black and tan, blue and tan, and silver and tan, are what make them so popular. Short haired yorkies don’t need much care, but for the long haired ones, they do need to have their coats brushed and combed on a regular basis to keep them in good condition.
Yorkies are active little dogs and are not content to just sit around the house all day. They enjoy going for walks and playing with toys, and they are also known for their love of chasing small animals. They are also known for their brave and fearless nature, which can make them a great watchdog.
Yorkies are a great breed for people who want a small and affectionate companion dog. They are a good choice for families, as they get along well with children and other pets. However, Yorkies are not recommended for homes with young children, as they may become too protective and territorial.
Health issues of Yorkies
Dental issues are this breed’ most prevalent health condition as their small mouths and packed teeth make them vulnerable to dental problems. Without routine brushing, Yorkies run the risk of acquiring gum disease, plaque, and tartar, all of which can result in life-threatening diseases. It’s advised to regularly brush your Yorkie’s teeth and take them to the vet for cleanings if you want to avoid these problems.
Another health issue is eye problems in their late years. Yorkies can develop cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness. To reduce the risk of these conditions, it’s important to keep your Yorkie’s eyes clean and free of debris, and to take them to the vet for regular checkups.
Yorkies are also prone to respiratory problems. Like other small breeds, they have short noses and small windpipes, which can make them more prone to respiratory infections. It’s recommended to keep your pup’s environment clean and free of dust to help prevent these issues.
Lastly, Yorkies can suffer from skin conditions, because they have sensitive skin, which can be prone to allergies, dryness, and infection. To help keep your Yorkie’s skin healthy, keep them groomed regularly and always use a hypoallergenic shampoo.
Training and obedience for Yorkies
Yorkies often have a reputation for being strong-willed and stubborn. However, with the right kind of training and obedience, you can turn this breed into a loving, loyal companion. Start training your pup as early as possible, as this will help them learn quickly and help you to establish good habits at early stage. Start teaching basic commands like “sit”, “leave” and “stay” as soon as you get your new Yorkie puppy. Training should be fun for both you and your pup. Use treats, toys, and lots of praise to reward your pup for good behaviour. Stay consistent with your training, as this will help your pup learn faster and remember better. With a little bit of work and dedication, you can have a great relationship with your Yorkie.
How to choose a reputable Yorkie breeder
Because of this breed’s popularity, finding a reputable breeder can be a challenge. To ensure that you get a happy, healthy pup, it’s important to do your research and choose a breeder that meets your expectations. Make sure to verify the breeder’s credentials before making a purchase. Most reputable breeders are members of The Kennel Club in the UK, and they should be able to provide you with proof of membership.
When you find a breeder that you’re considering, make sure to arrange a visit so you can get a firsthand look at their facility. The breeder should also be able to provide you with records of the puppies’ medical check-ups, vaccinations, and other care.
A reputable breeder should be more than happy to answer all your questions and provide you with information about their Yorkie puppies. Ask about the parents of the puppies, their breed history, and any health issues they may have. A responsible breeder should also be willing to provide you with a written health guarantee.
If you’re searching for a loyal, devoted, and low-maintenance friend, yorkies are a great option. They are perfect for people who live in apartments or have a little space because they are lightweight, portable, and low-shedding. They are also simple to take care of and don’t need much exercise or upkeep. Yorkies are a fantastic option for families searching for a devoted companion because they are also renowned for their intelligence and caring temperament.
