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Yorkshire Terrier
Toy breed from Yorkshire, England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a toy-sized dog breed originating from Yorkshire, England. It has a long, silky coat that is steel blue and golden tan. Known for being confident, courageous, energetic, affectionate, alert, and intelligent, this breed carries a bold terrier temperament in a small package. Its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 1.8 to 3.2 kg for both sexes, and estimated height ranges from 18 to 20 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. The breed has a moderate energy level (3/5) and trainability (3/5), high grooming needs (5/5), and low shedding (2/5). It is generally suitable for children (4/5) and apartments (5/5), but compatibility with other dogs is moderate (3/5). Individual behavior may vary.
Quick facts
Yorkshire Terrier at a glance
Sizetoy
Breed groupToy
OriginYorkshire, England
Lifespan12–16 years
Male weight1.8–3.2 kilogram
Female weight1.8–3.2 kilogram
Male height18–20 centimetre
Female height18–20 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Yorkshire Terrier was developed during the Industrial Revolution in Yorkshire and Lancashire by Scottish weavers and mill workers. It was bred to catch rats in textile mills and mines, combining various terrier breeds including the now-extinct Paisley and Clydesdale Terriers. The breed's origins are rooted in the working-class communities of northern England, where its small size and tenacity were valued for vermin control. Over time, the Yorkshire Terrier transitioned from a working dog to a companion animal, though its exact timeline of recognition and breed standardization is not specified in the available facts. The breed's history is closely tied to the industrial era, but specific dates or events are not provided.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
1.8–3.2 kilogramAdult weight18–20 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLong, SilkyCoat colorsSteel blue and golden tanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Confidentcourageousenergeticaffectionatealertintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Yorkshire Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Yorkshire Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight1.8–3.2 kilogramAdult female weight1.8–3.2 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier?
Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 1.8 to 3.2 kg, and estimated height is 18 to 20 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the temperament of a Yorkshire Terrier?
The breed is described as confident, courageous, energetic, affectionate, alert, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Yorkshire Terrier will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (rated 3 out of 5). While specific exercise requirements are not given, this suggests they need regular but not excessive activity.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are high (rated 5 out of 5) due to the long, silky coat. Regular brushing and maintenance are likely necessary, though specific routines are not provided.
Is a Yorkshire Terrier suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed has a child suitability rating of 4 out of 5, indicating general compatibility, but supervision is recommended. Dog compatibility is rated 3 out of 5, meaning some individuals may get along with other dogs while others may not. Always assess individual temperament.
Can a Yorkshire Terrier live in an apartment?
Yes, the breed has an apartment suitability rating of 5 out of 5, suggesting they adapt well to apartment living due to their small size and moderate energy.
Where does the Yorkshire Terrier originate from?
The breed originates from Yorkshire, England, and was developed during the Industrial Revolution by Scottish weavers and mill workers. It was bred from terrier types including the now-extinct Paisley and Clydesdale Terriers.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.