If you’re looking to add a furry family member and have considered a Yorkshire Terrier, you’re hardly alone. The Yorkie consistently ranks among the top 10 most popular breeds in the U.S. and it’s easy to see why. Their small size, luxurious coat and spunky personality makes them a popular choice and indeed they can be loyal, loving companions but this is not a breed for the faint of heart. Read below to learn more about this engaging breed from our experts at Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, Colorado.
A lot of dog in a little body
While the Yorkshire Terrier is small in size, don’t let that fool you. These little pups have a big personality and are fiercely loyal, forming a tight bond with one person or a couple of family members. This makes them great watchdogs and wonderful pocket-sized companions, but they can be a lot to handle if you’re not prepared to put in the work.
Originating in Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s, Yorkies were initially bred to work as ratters in factories and shops but by the late 1800s they had become a favored breed of Victorian ladies, who cherished their tiny size and adorable looks. The first Yorkshire Terriers arrived in the U.S. in the 1870s and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
They were bred to be small, which make Yorkies an ideal choice for apartment or small home dwellers and those looking for a companion who will be perfectly happy curling up in their lap. That being said, these are not dogs to be taken lightly. They are highly intelligent and can have an attitude. Here at Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, CO we urge prospective adopters to consider their choice carefully. Yorkshire Terriers can be wonderful pets but they require a real commitment.
Early training is important, especially if you want your Yorkie to acclimate to children and other pets. Like most toy breeds, they are delicate and can be injured easily so a household with small children is not ideal, though older children can usually do well with Yorkies. You’ll also need to work with them from an early age on housebreaking and to curb their tendency to act spoiled. With the proper work, however, they can become wonderful companions.
Because they are highly intelligent, they love a challenge and puzzle toys are a particular favorite. While they can be stubborn, they are usually easy to train and excel at everything from tracking to rally obedience to trick training. They tend to have a lot of energy and will need plenty of exercise, including a couple of walks and some play time every day in order to help control troublesome behavior.
While their long, silky coat is part of the breed’s attraction, it takes quite a bit of care to keep them looking their best. Their single coat is very similar to human hair and will grow relatively quickly but they don’t shed a lot which makes them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies. Daily brushing and regular visits to the groomer are required to keep their coat in good shape, especially if kept long though some people opt to cut it shorter for easier maintenance.
Yorkshire Terriers tend to have a long life span, lasting from 12 to 14 years and many last even longer, which means you’ll have your furry friend for quite some time, though they may be prone to some health challenges. Still, if you’re looking for a fierce, friendly, bright and loving addition to your family, the Yorkshire Terrier is a perfect choice. If you want more information on this amazing breed contact us here at Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, Colorado and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions!
