Small but feisty, the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the tiniest types of dog on the planet – however, they are known to possess a bit of an attitude – while still remaining really lovely pets! It’s fascinating to see how small dogs can be when you compare them with some of the biggest breeds on the planet. It’s hard to believe these titchy terriers are the same animals as towering great danes and Irish wolfhounds!
That cheeky little dog you know and love is actually likely to be more intriguing than you give it credit for being. We’ve lined up some fun facts about Yorkshire Terrier dogs to help break down some of the most fascinating nuggets this curious breed is known for.
1. Yorkshire Terriers have come a long way!
Believe it or not, the Yorkshire Terrier might be titchy, but it’s actually a cross-breed from several different terriers over the years. Specifically, it’s the product of breeding from at least the Waterside Terrier.
2. Yorkies – rat catchers – really?
The Waterside Terrier was a dog bred specifically to hunt and kill rats – we can’t quite imagine a Yorkie posing too much of a threat to a rat or two, but they are feisty little beasts to say the least!
In fact, it’s been commonplace over the years for Scottish businesses to set up a Yorkie or two to help control rodent populations. In many cases, these fierce critters are better than felines at keeping mice and rats out of the picture.
3. Yorkies normally won’t shed.
If you’re looking for a small dog which doesn’t leave hair all over the house and all over your clothes, the Yorkshire Terrier is likely to be a great fit for you. However, just as you normally need to clip and cut your own hair, you’re going to need to keep your Yorkie’s in check, too. Believe it or not, a Yorkshire Terrier’s hair can grow up to two feet in length, but please don’t let it get that far!
4. Get into grooming!
Yorkie hair needs a lot of grooming and brushing – it’s going to need a good brush everyday to stop it from matting and to help it keep looking glossy.
5. Their names have changed over the years!
Yorkshire Terriers weren’t always named that way. In fact, originally, they were known as Scotch Terriers. The name change occurred after it was agreed that the dogs’ final breed came into play once they moved down into Yorkshire.
6. Ever sneezed backwards before?
Yorkies are one of several breeds which suffer from a phenomenon called reverse sneezing. This may seem a little scary at first if you have never witnessed it in a dog, but it is just like a sneeze that goes inward, rather than which presses outwards. Therefore, don’t worry too much if your Yorkie starts gasping – they’re most likely having a good sneeze.
7. We’ve loved looking after Yorkies for yonks!
Yorkies started appearing in dog shows across England from around the mid-19th century onwards. Since then, they’ve been a big staple at shows such as Crufts thanks to their stunning coats.
8. The Yorkshire Terrier is a proud pup.
A Yorkshire Terrier is a dog that’s confident and proud, which helps make them great companions on long trips and journeys. They are also fantastic for training and for dog shows for this reason, too – though they are known for their short tempers, too!
9. They’ve set some pretty (small) records!
The smallest dog to have ever lived was a Yorkshire Terrier. Specifically, Sylvia was just 2.5 inches in height, 4oz in weight, and 3.5 inches long.
10. One predecessor really led the way for these pups!
Many believe that the current success of the breed can trace back to a legendary pup called Huddersfield Ben. Ben was a brilliant rat-catcher, a stud, and was awarded over 70 different accolades at dog shows over the years.
11. Famous by name, famous by nature!
Many famous people adore their Yorkies! Perhaps the most famous celebrity Yorkie – aptly named Mr Famous – was the prized pet of actress and UNICEF ambassador Audrey Hepburn.
12. A Yorkie doesn’t know it’s so titchy!
Yorkshire Terriers often act as though they have no idea of their size. This goes to explain why they will continue to act aggressive against animals much bigger than themselves if they feel their owners are at risk.
13. Americans love these English dogs.
Despite the very English heritage, Yorkshire Terriers are hugely popular in the US. This is to such an extent that they are thought to be among the six most popular dog breeds nationwide.
FAQs about Yorkshire Terriers
Do Yorkshire Terriers bark a lot?
Yes - Yorkies have the propensity to be quite a happy breed!
Are Yorkies tough to train?
Yorkshire terriers can be difficult to train - they are intelligent, but they can be stubborn at times!
How long do Yorkies live for?
Yorkshire terriers can often live for up to 15 or 16 years of age - but this will vary from dog to dog!
Do you know any interesting facts about Yorkshire Terriers? Share them in the comments below!
