Tiny in size, huge in personality — the Yorkie is a bold, devoted lap dog with a true terrier streak. Their low-shedding silky coat suits many allergy sufferers but needs daily brushing (or a short pet clip). They can be yappy and benefit from early training and gentle socialisation; their size makes them fragile around toddlers.
Yorkshire Terrier
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A tiny terrier with a huge, feisty personality — bold, bossy and brave well beyond its size, yet devoted and affectionate with its chosen person.
Temperament
- Feisty
- Bold
- Affectionate
- Confident
- Tenacious
Likes
- Being carried and pampered
- One-on-one time with their person
- Chasing toys and small 'prey'
- Being the centre of attention
Dislikes
- Cold weather (needs a coat)
- Being left alone
- Rough handling by small children
- Being ignored
Habits & quirks
- Yappy, alert 'big dog' barking
- Bossing around much larger dogs
- Demanding laps and attention
- A single, fine, hair-like coat that needs daily care
Great for
- Apartment living
- Allergy-conscious homes (with grooming)
- Adults and gentle older children
Think twice if…
- Homes with rough toddlers
- Owners who can't commit to coat care or dental
Yorkshire Terrier: quick answers
How big does the Yorkshire Terrier get?
An adult Yorkshire Terrier typically weighs 2–3.5 kg and stands around 18–23 cm at the shoulder — a small breed.
How long does the Yorkshire Terrier live?
13–16 years is typical for the Yorkshire Terrier. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Yorkshire Terrier good with kids?
The Yorkshire Terrier rates a middling 3/5 on our family-friendliness scale. With early socialisation, training and supervision many do fine with children — the individual dog matters more than the breed.
Does the Yorkshire Terrier shed a lot?
Not much — the Yorkshire Terrier is a light shedder (1/5 on our scale), one of the easier breeds for keeping hair under control.
Is the Yorkshire Terrier easy to train?
Reasonably — the Yorkshire Terrier rates 3/5 for trainability. Consistency, patience and positive reinforcement get you there.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
