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Breed profile

Yorkshire Terrier

Toy · Small · United Kingdom

Also known as: Yorkie

  • Feisty
  • Affectionate
  • Brave
  • Lively

A small terrier with a bold spirit and a fine, low-shedding coat. Yorkies are affectionate companions that still enjoy play and short walks and benefit from consistent training.

Yorkshire Terrier wearing a harness and standing on a garden path
Photo:MichalPL (opens in a new tab)CC BY-SA 4.0 licence (opens in a new tab)

Recorded characteristics

What the reference data says

Ranges and ratings are useful comparison points, but they cannot predict every dog.

Physical profile

At a glance

Size
Small
Height
18–23 cm
Weight
2–3.2 kg
Typical lifespan
13–16 years
Coat
Long
Shedding
Low
Low-shedding coat
Yes

Everyday needs

Care & temperament

Energy level
Moderate
Daily exercise
30+ min
Trainability
Moderate
Good with children
With supervision
Good with dogs
Varies
Good with cats
Varies

From profile to practical care

Getting a Yorkshire Terrier? Dog services in Birmingham

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These shortcuts pre-set our search filters based on Yorkshire Terrier tendencies — a starting point for discovery, not a rule. Every dog is an individual, so use your own judgement about what suits yours.

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Source provenance

Where these facts come from

Reference information compiled from the sources listed here. Individual dogs vary — always meet a dog and speak to reputable breeders or rescues.