⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: 2–3.2 kg (4–7 lb)
- Life expectancy: 13–16 years
- Activity: Moderate · 30–45 min a day
- Best suited to: Apartments, families with older children
Key facts
| Origin | England |
|---|---|
| Height | 18–23 cm (7–9 in) |
| Adult weight | 2–3.2 kg (4–7 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 13–16 years |
| Activity needs | Moderate · 30–45 min a day |
| Coat | Long, hair-like, no undercoat; low shedding |
| Best suited to | Apartments, families with older children |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
Yorkies are devoted, playful and self-confident, with a strong watchdog instinct and a tendency to bark. Early training and socialisation help.
Daily exercise
30–45 minutes of walks and play a day; their intelligence makes puzzle games a hit.
Feeding
Dental health affects eating in toy breeds; think about kibble and tooth care together.
Example: a neutered adult Yorkshire Terrier at an ideal weight of 2.8 kg (6 lb) needs roughly 240 kcal a day (RER × 1.6). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Gum disease and retained baby teeth
- Portosystemic shunt
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: hip problem causing limping in young dogs
Care tips
- Daily brushing of long coat, regular trims
- Brush teeth several times a week; see a vet if baby teeth don't fall out
- Use a harness
- Frequent meals for puppies
Frequently asked questions
Do Yorkshire Terriers shed?
Very little; the coat grows like human hair, so regular brushing and trims are needed.
Is a Yorkie good for apartments?
Yes, its size suits apartments. Barking can be managed with early training.
Why does my Yorkie cough like a goose?
It can be a sign of tracheal collapse. See your vet and use a harness instead of a collar.