The Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is undeniably an adorable breed. A mixture of England's finest terriers, the Yorkshire Terrier, or "Yorkie," is a combination of the Clydesdale Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Waterside Terrier and the Paisley Terrier.

By the late 1800s, Yorkies had made their way to the United States, but their name did not come about until the early 1900s, as there were many varieties of size at first. It was at this time that the majority of dog enthusiasts deemed the smaller-sized Yorkie as being the most desirable, creating a name for just this size of the breed.

Cowgirl Yorkie by Morgan Porter

While Yorkies are typically small in size, the temperate (or behavior) of this breed is bold, confident and outrageous - making it appear as though these tiny dogs are completely unaware of their small stature. While the average Yorkie is always ready for fun and adventure, this excitable behavior can sometimes turn into aggression towards other small animals and unfamiliar canines. Yorkies definitely maintain their rough and tumble terrier spirit at all times.

Like many toy breeds, the Yorkie needs a large amount of exercise, but can obtain this rather simply, even by running from room to room in a small apartment. Of course, this does not mean that the Yorkie should be kept indoors, even Yorkies need to get outside and play! They love to take brisk walks with you whenever they can, just be sure to keep your Yorkie on a leash at all times to avoid that Terrier toughness from causing problems with other small animals.

While Yorkies do love to be outside, they are not an outdoor dog. As a breed, Yorkshire Terriers prefer to be indoors in the company of their family with plenty of human contact. If you must leave your Yorkie outside for a brief period of time, however, just make sure that there is plenty of adequate shelter and bedding.

As with all dogs, the Yorkshire Terrier requires proper grooming and maintenance. However, when it comes to grooming, Yorkshire Terriers are flexible in their appearance and upkeep. They tend to grow very long hair, but it is up to you whether you decide to keep this style or not. Leaving it long, of course, requires more grooming habits such as frequent brushing so that the hair does not tangle or mat. If you decide to cut your Yorkie's hair, then you will only have to brush him or her three to four times per week. Low maintenance is important to some dog owners.

The Yorkshire Terrier has a lifespan of up to 16 years when raised in a positive, caring environment focused on the health and happiness of the dog. Fortunately, they are a breed without many known health risks to monitor. Veterinarians do suggest having Yorkies tested regularly for eye problems and knee dysplasia while also having routine liver ultrasounds, however.

Yorkshire Terriers are an active, energetic, playful and typically attractive breed of dog, with a long lifespan and less health problems than some dogs. They make a wonderful addition to any loving home who desire a faithful, spunky companion for many years.

Author Resource: Enrico Pallatzo is a professional dog trainer. He is a graduate of Temple University. Hobbies include opera singing, tennis, and scuba diving. More on the yorkshire terrier.