Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier breed is an active, toy terrier. Despite being a small, toy breed, Yorkshire Terriers are still terriers at heart and have the 'spirit' that is shared by all terriers.

The Yorkshire Terrier's Behavior

Source: Wikipedia.

Recommended for: pet

The Yorkshire Terrier dog breed, like all terriers, is independent and spunky. Yorkshire Terriers are territorial and have no concept of their vulnerabilities that stem from their small size. They will not hesitate to attack bigger dogs. They get along well with children and other animals at home but they must be protected from harm, both intentional and otherwise. Despite their small size, they have a powerful bite if continually provoked or attacked.

Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.

The Yorkshire Terrier's Physical Characteristics

Here are some of the characteristics of the Yorkshire Terrier breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.

* Coat: glossy, fine, silky, moderately long for body, straight
* Color: dark steel-blue or tan
* Eyes: medium size, dark color
* Ears: small, V-shaped, carried erect
* Muzzle: not too long
* Nose: black
* Tail: carried a bit higher than level of back

The Yorkshire Terrier's Origins and History

Source: Wikipedia.

Country/Region of Origin: England

Original purpose: pet, showdog

Name: Named for Yorkshire in England where it is thought that the breed originated.

Historical notes: Very many people believe the breed is the result of the mingling between the Scottish and the English terriers when Scotsmen were displaced to England during the Industrial Revolution. On the Scottish side, the contributors are believed to be the Waterside, the Clydesdale, and Paisley Terriers. On the English side, they are the Manchester, the Maltese, and the Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The breed was originally known as the Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier that weighed 12 to 14 pounds, a far cry from the modern standard of 5 to 6 pounds, and was meant to catch rodents. In 1870 it was officialy renamed as the Yorkshire Terrier.