Thanks to the Yorkshire, other breeds emerged, such as the Waterside Terrier (Airedale Terrier), the Paisley Terrier or the Clydesdale Terrier. It has influences of the West Highland White Terrier, the Scottish Terrier and the Maltese.
History of the Yorkshire Terrier breed
The Yorkshire Terrier owes its typical name to exactly two circumstances: One is the fact that it was bred in the county of Yorkshire at the end of the 19th century, and the other is that it belongs to the Terriers. At that time, he was raised in the poorest classes of the industrial cities of northern England.
He was to help them free the cities from rats and mice. Many also used the little terrier to hunt rabbits illegally or abused the dogs as betting objects in the rat pit.
The exact origin of the Yorkshire Terrier is not yet proven. Today, we can only assume that it was created by crossing several breeds. The Maltese was probably involved in the history of the Yorkshire Terrier as well as the Skye Terrier.
When the breeding of this small breed of dog began, a shoulder height of 15–17 inches was ideal. During the 20th century, however, more and more dogs were bred smaller and smaller.
Appearance - This is what Yorkshire Terriers look like
The Yorkshire Terrier has a shoulder height of 8 to 10 inches. They weigh up to 7 pounds. Therefore, they belong to the category of small animals from a purely legal point of view and can also be kept in a rented apartment. In addition to its size, the Yorkie's characteristic feature is its long, fine, and shiny coat. As far as coat colors are concerned, a dark steel blue is allowed on the body, and the hair on the chest has a full, light tan. The hair also becomes lighter towards the tip.
The Yorkshire Terrier has a small, compact body and an upright posture. Its entire body is covered with its long, smooth hair. Yorkies can also be recognized by the fact that their tails are very hairy and carried a little above the level of their backs. This breed of dog wears its small ears in a V-shape, relatively high and erect.
Read also: Small Dogs That Don't Shed Hair
Yorkshire Terrier temperament and personality
The little four-legged friend has the courage and heart of a lion. If the situation calls for it, the Yorkshire Terrier can be a great fighter, bravely defending home and family. The Yorkie has taken this trait from its 19th century breeding origins. At that time, this breed of dog was bred as a hunting and fighting dog. For this reason, the Yorkshire Terrier needs a consistent hand in training.
Yorkshire Terriers love to dig for rodents. At times, they can turn out to be real stubborn heads and can be quite sassy with other dogs. In general, it is important to know that these little dogs are much bigger and stronger than they really are.
The lively, intelligent, and courageous Yorkie needs close contact with his people. He is loyal and affectionate to them, but not without maintaining his own character.
What do I need to know before getting a Yorkshire terrier?
The small size of the Yorkshire Terrier benefits tenants living in city apartments. Even though dogs are not allowed in the apartment, you can keep a Yorkshire Terrier. However, it is important to ensure that the pet gets daily exercise. Social contact with other dogs is very important to him. During the race, however, you should never let him out of sight. Otherwise, the Yorkshire Terrier may go hunting.
The training of this breed of dog requires a lot of consistency on the part of the owner. Whoever neglects instruction must expect his beloved to acquire a higher potential for aggressiveness. In no way should we assume that the Yorkshire Terrier does not need a serious education because of its size. In fact, small dogs, in particular, exaggerate their dominance for fear of not being taken seriously otherwise.
Unlike other dog breeds, there is no hair change in the Yorkshire Terrier. But that doesn't mean you don't have to take care of his coat. It's best to brush it regularly and remove dirt and grime.
The ambition of many breeders is to breed smaller and smaller Yorkshire Terriers. However, this leads to the fact that this breed of dog is becoming more and more susceptible to certain diseases. For example, there are frequent problems with joints and teeth. It can also cause thyroid disorders and eye problems.