

The Yorkshire Terrier is a brave, highly intelligent little Erdhund (earth dog) — originally bred to fearlessly hunt rats in the narrow confines of English textile mills. Beneath that silky coat beats the dauntless heart of a true terrier who firmly believes they are a large guard dog.
How the health grade is calculated
Sources for required breeding screenings. 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V.
Self-check
Answer 6 quick questions about your everyday life and see how well the Yorkshire Terrier fits you — including an honest cost estimate per month, per year, and across the dog's lifetime.
At a glance
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Lifespan
13–16 yrs
Shoulder height
15–18 cm
Weight
2–3 kg
Practical
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Yorkshire Terrier, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Colors & coat
The coat colors that occur in the Yorkshire Terrier — including which ones fall outside the breed standard and which carry genetic risk.
Eye colors
Coat type
The real vibes check
A Yorkshire Terrier doesn't know they are small — they see a full-grown lion in the mirror. If you treat them like a fragile accessory in a handbag, they will quickly become a frustrated yapper. However, if you take them seriously as a genuine, eager-to-work terrier, you will gain a fearless and highly intelligent companion who will stick with you through thick and thin.
The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately often called “Yorkie”, is a small breed of dog with an elegant and striking appearance. He belongs to FCI group 3, the terriers, and is a toy terrier. Its long, silky fur that reaches to the ground and its proud posture give it a noble appearance. The lack of undercoat makes its fur particularly fine and silky. His large, dark eyes, which are a warm brown tone and have a clingy charisma, are also striking. The ears are small, V-shaped and stand erect.
The Yorkshire Terrier may be small, but his personality is anything but! He is lively, energetic and often has the confidence of a much larger dog. One of the most beautiful characteristics of the Yorkie is his affection. He loves being close to his people and often develops a particularly close bond with one person. The Yorkie has a natural curiosity and reacts quickly to anything that moves. He is intelligent and learns quickly, but sometimes he can be a bit stubborn. Although very affectionate, the Yorkie can learn to stay alone for short periods of time if properly prepared. However, he can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. As a terrier, the Yorkie tends to exhibit hunting behavior, especially when it sees small animals such as birds or squirrels. He is also territorial and alert and will bark if he hears or sees anything unusual, making him a good watchdog, although his size means he is not intimidating.
| Watchfulness Reports unusual activity but stays controlled. | Moderate |
| Openness to Strangers Neither pushily friendly nor suspicious. | Neutral |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Powerful instinct that can override recall when triggered. | Strong |
Fun Fact!
Despite its cute appearance, one should not forget that the Yorkshire Terrier is a real terrier, fearless and headstrong.
Yorkshire Terriers are active dogs that need something to do. It is important to make sure that you choose the largest possible representative of this breed and one with the longest possible nose, as both the small size and the short nose are considered breeding traits that can cause a lot of suffering for the dogs.
Yorkshire Terriers are very adaptable and make good city dogs. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living. However, they are also very affectionate and should not be left alone for too long. They generally get along well with older children, but due to their small size, caution should be exercised around very young children. When it comes to other pets, Yorkies can sometimes be territorial, but they can also get along well with cats and other dogs if properly socialized.
Loves family life and thrives in a group.
Fine with calm, respectful children — not small tornadoes.
Usually gets on fine with other dogs.
Small space, noise, lots of people — no problem at all.
Owning a dog is a privilege, but it's also a real responsibility. Before you bring one into your life, be honest with yourself about the commitment it takes.
The Yorkshire Terrier is an intelligent dog with a lot of energy. He is curious by nature and loves learning new things. However, his strong character can sometimes pose a challenge in training and upbringing. It is important to start training from the beginning and be consistent but loving. Sports like agility can be a great way to develop your urge to move and your intelligence. The passionate hunter can also be kept busy with search and retrieval games. However, it is important to make sure that you do not “over-busy” the dog and that you also allow him periods of rest. Frustration tolerance and impulse control are important, and it may be useful to incorporate this into training, especially if the dog tends to draw attention to itself through unwanted behavior such as constant barking. By setting clear rules and deliberately ignoring undesirable behavior, you can counteract the small dog's high energy and ensure more peace in everyday life. If you treat him like a "real" dog and train and exercise him accordingly, it proves to be an active and pleasant companion.
In terms of nutrition, Yorkshire Terriers benefit from a balanced, high-quality diet. They can be prone to low blood sugar, so it is important that they receive regular meals. Small breeds like the Yorkie often benefit from food specifically formulated for small dogs. The Yorkshire Terrier's coat is long, silky hair without an undercoat. This makes them relatively well suited to the climate in Germany, although in cold weather you should make sure to put a small coat on them. Long hair requires regular care to prevent tangles.
| Care Level Daily care is non-negotiable — neglect affects health. | Very high-maintenance |
| Exercise Needs Needs 1–2 hours of real exercise daily. | Active |
| Shedding No or minimal hair loss — suitable for allergy sufferers. | No shedding |
| Trainability Willing to learn with clear rules and regular training. | Balanced |
Our experts are still reviewing this information. Spotted something wrong? Email us at info@honestdog.de.
Solid, watch carefully
Health grade
In the Yorkshire Terrier, there are breed-typical risks for severe diseases such as portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy), tracheal collapse (TC), and eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. The 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V. mandatorily requires testing for patellar luxation (PL) with a limit of PL 0–1 as well as a tooth and bite evaluation for breeding. However, a health-oriented breeder goes beyond these minimum requirements and additionally tests for further risks. Before buying a puppy, ask to see the breeding clearance with the PL results and inquire about additional proof, such as an unremarkable test result for portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy) or evidence that the parents are free from progressive retinal atrophy (or carriers were only mated with clear partners).
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-assisted and editorially reviewed.
Methodology and data: HonestDog Dog Breed Health Report 2026
What matters most for this breed
Tap any item to see details.
You should focus on maintaining a healthy body weight and regular dental care; in return, many of these dogs can remain active for a long time, though they often require more attention as they age.
Responsible breeders have patellar luxation (PL) and teeth examined, and voluntarily test for portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy) as well as progressive retinal atrophy.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
What matters most for this breed — what's common, how much it affects the dog's life, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.
Tap a body region to see the inherited conditions linked to it.
The three most important risks
Pick a region on the map to explore other areas.
Tier 1 reflects the tests 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V. actually mandates. Tiers 2 and 3 show how responsible breeders go beyond.
Club standard. 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V. requires these tests for breeding approval. Ask any reputable breeder for the results.
Not health tests, but required for breeding: the club asks for these results too. They don't count toward the risks or the rating.
DNA-Identitätsnachweis
Required by 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V.
Acceptable result: DNA-Profil erstellt und in der Genotypen-Datenbank hinterlegt
Dental and bite evaluation
Required by 1. Deutscher Yorkshire-Terrier-Club e.V.
Acceptable result: Kein Vorbiss, Rückbiss oder Kreuzbiss; kein erheblicher Zahnverlust (Fehlen von Canini, P4/Oberkiefer, M1/Unterkiefer oder mehr als zwei anderen Zähnen; mindestens 5 Schneidezähne)
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
A Yorkshire Terrier costs around ~€190 per month (€100 – €350, depending on your setup). The first year adds up to roughly ~€4,830 including purchase, equipment and puppy school; across the dog's life (14.5 years) it comes to about ~€35,270.
With surgery cover, running costs come to about ~€180 per month — in return, your share of a major operation drops from several thousand euros to around 20 percent.
Per month
~€190
In the first year
~€4,830
Across the dog's life
~€35,270
Purchase price per HonestDog's market analysis (asking prices in Germany, as of October 2026): €1,500 – €2,000
Small sample: 15 unique listings in the rolling three-month window. Data for this breed · Methodology
Estimate at a mid-range setup (suburban, dry food, 1–2 hours of daily exercise), average German prices, as of July 2026.

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Illustrative imageThe Yorkshire Terrier's roots lie in England, specifically the county of Yorkshire after which it is named. In the 19th century, the Yorkie was developed by Scottish workers who moved to the industrial areas of Yorkshire. Yorkshire Terriers were originally used as rat catchers to keep textile factories and mines free of pests. Over time, their elegant appearance was recognized and they became increasingly popular as lap dogs of polite society. The Yorkshire Terrier was recognized as a separate breed in the 1870s and has since won many hearts around the world.
The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred to combat rats in textile factories and mines, but later developed into a popular companion dog.
England
1800
In everyday family life, owners consistently describe the Yorkshire Terrier as a "big dog in a small package." It attaches itself very closely to its people and actively asks for cuddles and attention. Despite its handy size, owners keep stressing that it should never be mistaken for a mere lapdog or purse dog: many Yorkies show surprising stamina on long walks, happily go everywhere with their owners, and have a cheerful, playful nature.
That typical terrier nature also brings challenges at home. Owners often point out that Yorkies are very alert and like to comment loudly on every noise in the hallway or at the garden fence. Being left alone also comes up again and again in owner communities: because they are so attached, some dogs tend toward frustration barking or restlessness if staying alone isn't trained step by step and patiently from the start.
Sources:tierisch-verliebt.dezoomalia.dedogforum.defitwarm.comkiezdogs.com
Owners largely agree on training and temperament: the Yorkshire Terrier is highly intelligent, picks up rules in a flash, and can get excited about many kinds of activities. At the same time, owners regularly report a strong, typical terrier stubbornness. A Yorkie likes to test boundaries and will take advantage of any inconsistency right away, so clear but always loving leadership is essential. Many Yorkies respond to excessive harshness with stubborn refusal.
A recurring topic in forums is the tendency toward leash aggression or barking at other dogs. Because many of these dogs have huge self-confidence and seem unaware of their own tiny size, they sometimes fearlessly mouth off at much bigger dogs. Owners also describe a hunting and prey drive that stays noticeable on walks: squirrels, birds, or rustling leaves in the undergrowth quickly catch the attention of this agile terrier.
On health and care, owners paint a mixed picture. On one hand, a Yorkie from a good background is considered surprisingly long-lived and tough. On the other, forums regularly mention two weak spots: kneecap problems (luxating patella), which often show up as sudden three-legged walking, and a strong tendency toward tartar and tooth loss in old age. That's why many owners recommend starting dental care early, while the dog is still young.
When it comes to grooming, many owners say the breed makes housekeeping easier, since it has no undercoat and sheds very little. The grooming work shouldn't be underestimated, though: without regular combing, the fine hair mats quickly. For that reason, many owners take the practical route and opt for a shorter trim, which makes life noticeably easier after walks in wet, muddy weather.
Sources:tierisch-verliebt.dereddit.com
Paraphrased from real owner reports · translated from German
The Yorkshire Terrier is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
The average life expectancy of a Yorkshire Terrier is 13-16 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
Yorkshire Terrier grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
The Yorkshire Terrier can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
The Yorkshire Terrier comes in these colors: Blue and tan, Black and tan, Chocolate, Tricolor, Gold. Colors that fall outside the breed standard are marked as such on the breed page.
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