Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred in the 19th century in England, specifically in the county of Yorkshire. They were developed to catch rats and mice in clothing mills and mines.
The Yorkshire Terrier's ancestors were but Through selective breeding, their size was gradually reduced to the small, toy-sized dogs we know today.
Puppies are born with a black coat that gradually changes as they mature. The blue areas of the coat are actually a steel gray color.
Some may have a liver (chocolate) and tan coat, although this coloration is not as commonly seen and may not be accepted in breed standards.
Yorkshire Terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds, usually weighing between 4 to 7 pounds (1.8 to 3.2 kg) and standing around 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Yorkies are known for their self-assured and bold attitudes. They often exhibit a "big dog in a small body" mentality, which can lead to them taking on much larger dogs.
While highly intelligent, Yorkshire Terriers can be stubborn during training sessions. Positive reinforcement methods work best, as they respond well to treats, praise, and engaging activities.
Yorkies are prone to dental issues. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth and providing appropriate dental chews or toys, is important to prevent dental problems as they age.
Their compact size allows Yorkies to join you on outings, from park visits to weekend getaways and shopping trips.