Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a spirited, confident toy breed originally bred in Victorian-era Yorkshire to catch rats in textile mills. Despite their diminutive siz...
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a spirited, confident toy breed originally bred in Victorian-era Yorkshire to catch rats in textile mills. Despite their diminutive size, Yorkies have a bold, tenacious personality. Their long, silky, steel-blue and tan coat gives them an elegant appearance that belies their working-class origins.
Temperament
Yorkies are brave, determined, and affectionate. They have big personalities in tiny bodies and are not afraid to stand up to much larger dogs. They are loyal to their owners and make alert watchdogs. They can be somewhat territorial and may not be the best choice for families with very young children due to their small, delicate frame.
Exercise Needs
Yorkies need around 30 minutes of exercise daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions are sufficient. They enjoy exploring and playing but tire quickly. They are well-suited to apartment living and do not need a large garden. Mental stimulation through training and interactive toys is important.
Grooming Requirements
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing if kept long, or regular professional grooming if maintained in a shorter style. Without proper care, their coat mats easily. Regular dental care is critical as small breeds are highly prone to periodontal disease. Ear cleaning and nail trimming should be part of the regular grooming routine.
Common Health Issues
Common health concerns include patellar luxation, collapsed trachea, dental disease, portosystemic shunt (liver), and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Hypoglycaemia can be an issue in puppies and very small adults. Choose breeders who test for patella and eye conditions.
Care Guide
Provide regular dental care — daily tooth brushing is ideal. Feed a high-quality diet in small, frequent meals, especially for puppies prone to low blood sugar. Keep the coat well-groomed to prevent matting. Use a harness rather than a collar to protect the delicate trachea. Socialise early to build confidence. Supervise interactions with larger dogs and young children.
Buying a Yorkshire Terrier in the UK
When buying a Yorkshire Terrier, choose a breeder who health-tests for patellar luxation, eye conditions, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Avoid 'teacup' Yorkies — these extremely small dogs often have serious health problems and shorter lifespans. A healthy Yorkie should weigh 2-3 kg as an adult. Visit the breeder to meet the mother and ensure puppies are raised in a clean, socialised environment. Ask about dental health in the breeder's lines, as Yorkies are particularly prone to periodontal disease.
Finding a Responsible Yorkshire Terrier Breeder
Responsible Yorkshire Terrier breeders test for patellar luxation, eye conditions (annual BVA scheme), and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. They should not breed from extremely small dogs (under 1.8 kg) as this increases health risks. Ask about portosystemic shunt (liver shunt) and collapsed trachea in the breeder's lines. Good breeders begin dental care habituation from puppyhood and advise on the importance of daily tooth brushing. They should socialise puppies with various people and environments to build confidence.
Cost of a Yorkshire Terrier in the UK
Yorkshire Terrier puppies from reputable breeders in the UK typically cost between £800.00 and £2,500.00. Prices vary based on breeder reputation, health testing, lineage, and location.
Beyond the initial purchase price, budget for ongoing costs including high-quality food, pet insurance, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and grooming. Annual running costs for a Yorkshire Terrier typically range from £500 to £1,500 depending on individual needs.
Current Petzy market data: 1 Yorkshire Terrier puppies available with an average price of £1,500.00, ranging from £1,500.00 to £1,500.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yorkshire Terriers good apartment dogs?
Yorkies are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. They need only about 30 minutes of exercise daily. However, they can be vocal barkers, which may be a consideration in flats with close neighbours.
How much does a Yorkshire Terrier cost in the UK?
Yorkshire Terrier puppies typically cost £800-£2,500 in the UK. Avoid extremely cheap or extremely expensive 'teacup' Yorkies. Health-tested puppies from reputable breeders who breed to the Kennel Club standard are the best investment.
Do Yorkshire Terriers shed?
Yorkies have hair similar to human hair rather than typical dog fur, so they shed very little. This makes them a popular choice for allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Their coat requires daily brushing if kept long, or regular professional grooming if clipped short.
How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
Yorkshire Terriers typically live 12-16 years, with many reaching their mid-teens. They are generally a long-lived breed. Regular dental care, weight management, and veterinary check-ups help ensure a healthy, long life.
Are Yorkies good with children?
Yorkies can be good with older, gentle children but are not ideal for families with very young children. Their small, delicate frame makes them vulnerable to accidental injury. They can also be snappy if handled roughly. Supervision is always recommended.
Find Your Perfect Yorkshire Terrier
Browse verified Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale from responsible breeders across the UK. Petzy connects you with trusted sellers who prioritise health and welfare.
Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale
1 listing available · avg. £1,500.00
Quick Facts
Life Expectancy
12-16 years
Weight
2-3 kg
Height
18-23 cm
Price Range
£800.00 - £2,500.00
Market Data
1
Available
£1,500.00
Avg Price
£1,500.00
From
£1,500.00
Up to