SHOULD I LOOK AT A YORKSHIRE TERRIER AS MY FAMILY NEXT PET?
APRIL 24, 2018
Summary
Yorkies are easily adaptable to all surroundings, they travel well and thus make suitable pets for most homes. Due to their small size they require only limited exercise, but do need daily interactions with their human companions.
Yorkshire Terriers, "Yorkies" offer big personalities in a small package.
Yorkies are a very smart, loyal family pet. They do well in small places, like apartment settings. Terriers are by nature brave, determined, investigative and energetic. They are also reliable watch dog, as they are keenly aware of their surroundings. Which makes them a perfect family pet. This along with their gentle nature makes a Yorkie the right family pet, and they usually get along well with other pets.
According to the American Kennel Club yorkies are:
Personality: Sprightly, tomboyish, and affectionate
Energy Level: Somewhat Active; Yorkies are moderately active and will be happy with a daily satisfying walk
Good with Children: Better with Supervision
Good with other Dogs: With Supervision
Shedding: Infrequent
Grooming: Daily
Trainability: Independent
Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: up to 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Barking Level: Barks When Necessary
Yorkie History
Named for the English county from which they originally come. Yorkshire Terriers were used in the nineteenth century to catch rats in clothing mills. Surprisingly enough, in its beginnings, the Yorkie belonged to the working class, especially the weavers. Eventually, the breed left the workforce and became a companion animal to families of European high society.
Care
Yorkies need weekly baths, ear, nail, and annal checks. Their teeth should be brushed. If you keep their coat "show" long they will need daily brushing. Yearly dental cleanings are recommended, along with annual boosters & Rabies as stipulated in your state.
Food and Nutrition
Yorkies can expend a lot of energy in and short time so food should be available. The brand is up to you, but a high quality food will provide the proper nutrients & vitamins that will keep your Yorkie healthy. Here at A Yorkie 4 U we recommend Taste of the wild small breed. They offer several varieties of flavors and life stages. We do not recommend canned or wet food. Chewing helps keep their teeth strong and helps reduce harmful plaque buildup. Thus reducing trips to the veterinarian for teeth problems.
Training
Yorkies are known for their intelligence and problem solving abilities, but they are also strong willed, so training must begin right way, and must be consistent. We here at A Yorkie 4 U do not recommend training with treats. Your pet must obey you as the alpha, not because they want another treat.
Life Expectancy
In general, Yorkies have a life expectancy of 12-15 years. There are many variables, however, yearly immunizations, health checks, quality of food, and exercise. Your dog will fill your life and the lives of your family with tons of kisses, and years of loyalty!