Main Things to Know About Yorkshire Terriers - How to Groom Yorkshire Terriers

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, spitz-type dog that dates back to the late 19th century. They are named after their native city of Yorkshire in England. These dogs were bred to hunt foxes and other wildlife, so they have a high prey drive as well as an intense desire to chase anything that moves. This breed is lively and intelligent, but not very cuddly or affectionate with humans. They’re highly independent and can be wary of new people. Here are 15 things you probably didn’t know about this feisty little dog.

Yorkshire Terriers are highly intelligent

Yorkies require rigorous training. They’re often very intelligent and eager to learn, but because of their independent nature and the potential for excessive chewing, they’re also prone to destructive behaviors if they don’t receive proper training. They’re also sensitive to environmental cues and can be very hard to housebreak. If your Yorkie has had any accidents indoors, you’ll want to consider crate training. This will allow you to confine your dog to a smaller space, minimizing the risk of accidents. Yorkie puppies are very playful and mischievous. If you’re training your dog, make sure you’re always consistent and firm. Also, avoid giving your pup too many treats or toys. While Yorkies are great for training, they can also get overweight.

Yorkies love to chew on their toys and furniture

Like other terriers, Yorkshire Terriers were bred to hunt. This means that they have a strong prey drive and will chase and try to catch whatever they see moving. Like most dogs, Yorkshire Terriers that are allowed to run free are more likely to indulge in destructive chewing behaviors. This is especially true around the sixth or seventh month when your pup is coming into full maturity and is entering into “chewing season.” One easy way to prevent your Yorkie from chewing on your furniture is to put his toys in a crate with him. Crated toys can be a great outlet for your pup’s chewing urges. For example, when he’s chewing on a toy in the crate, he’s not biting at your furniture.

Yorkies can be shy with strangers — especially at first

Like many small dogs, Yorkshire Terriers can be shy around new people. They need time to warm up to unfamiliar people, especially if you’re a stranger to them and they’re at a shelter or rescue event. When meeting new people, your Yorkie may be cautious. This is one reason why crate training can be a helpful tool. Yorkies can also be slow to trust new people. Be patient and don’t be too pushy with holding hands, candy, or other gestures that may seem like “small talk.” Instead, be patient and give your dog plenty of room. Let him sniff or sniff your hands or arms and let him meet you from a distance. You’ll be surprised at how much your Yorkie will warm up to you in this way.

Yorkshire Terriers need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy

Although Yorkies are small, terrier breeds are often highly energetic. This can lead to health problems as well as increased risk of destructive behavior around the house if a Yorkie isn’t given enough exercise. Yorkies, just like all dogs, need exercise to stay healthy and happy. And because they’re so energetic, they also need vigorous exercise. This means going for walks or runs that are at least a mile long. If your Yorkie doesn’t get enough exercise, he’ll be prone to destructive behavior as well as obesity. Yorkies also need to be groomed on a regular basis. This includes vacuuming any hair from around your pup’s ears, eyes, and other sensitive areas. Your Yorkie’s daily grooming can help to prevent him from getting allergic or infection-causing infections.

Finally,

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to ear infections. Shaving your pup regularly is important for helping to prevent this condition from developing. Yorkies also come with a few other health issues. They’re prone to canine hip dysplasia, and since they’re such an energetic breed, they’re also at a higher risk for developing joint problems such as hip dysplasia. Yorkies are also prone to bloat, and they can be susceptible to thyroid problems as well. Do your research before adopting one of these dogs. Know the potential health risks associated with the breed. And remember that while they’re often friendly and loving, Yorkshire Terriers can also be very feisty and difficult to train.