Yorkshire terriers are a very small breed of dog, growing to only 17cm at the shoulder and weighing approximately 3kg. They have beautiful tan and dark blue coats with hair that falls down their sides in a middle parting and long tails that curve over their backs.
As with many other terrier breeds they are courageous and don’t realize their diminutive size. They are the “Paris Hilton” of dog breeds because of their tiny size but they remain animals and still require boundaries and being treated like dogs rather than possessions. Failure to do so may cause anxiety and aggression and you don’t want a Yorkie biting your hand.
Your Yorkie may suffer from hip and knee problems as well as liver problems. These may however be rectified through surgery. Because of their delicate structure they are also prone to bone breakages so need to be delicately handled. Be aware too that they have small mouths and may require more dental care than bigger breeds.
Caring for your Yorkshire Terrier
Due to their long coats brushing is advisable on a daily basis to prevent knots and matting. They will however enjoy this attention as it is a good reason to bond. They are energetic little dogs and will enjoy getting out of the house for some wholesome exercise to take in the sights and sounds around them. It will be good for you too! Make sure that you do clip their nails regularly though as these are rather hardy and all that exercise just does not seem enough to get the job done.
As with all animals make sure that water is always available to keep them hydrated. Feed them high quality pellets if you must but natural, nutritional human foods such as vegetables and meats and a little homemade bread will give them a balanced diet as opposed to commercial dry foodstuffs.
Provide sensible options that won’t break their teeth when it comes to toys and be aware of commercial chew toys that may contain toxins. Do not allow them to jump down from dangerous heights but rather provide them with steps if you allow them on the furniture.
Training your Yorkie
Yorkshire terriers also enjoy a lot of attention so will welcome training time from you. They can learn potty training and to sit, stay, no, come, fetch and a host of other behaviors that will teach them boundaries. They enjoy the mental challenge and will respond well to positive reinforcement and repetition. Make sure you keep treats on hand to encourage them as this will speed up the learning process. Remember that allowing too much leeway will encourage undesirable behavior in your Yorkshire. If your pet does respond as you wish do not punish it. Your pet is willing to learn and simply needs encouragement. Punishing your pet unnecessarily will break your bond of trust and it will then become more difficult to train.
Comments