The Yorkshire Terrier (often called a Yorkie) is a small toy dog breed that originated in northern England during the 19th century. Despite their tiny size, Yorkies are known for their confident, energetic personalities and were originally bred to catch rats in textile mills and mines.

Key Facts

• Size: Typically 4–7 pounds (1.8–3.2 kg)

• Height: About 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) at the shoulder

• Life expectancy: Usually 11–15 years, though many live longer with good care

• Coat: Long, silky, fine hair that resembles human hair more than typical dog fur

• Colors: Usually a combination of blue and tan, though puppies are born much darker

Personality

Yorkshire Terriers are often:

• Affectionate with their families

• Intelligent and quick learners

• Alert and protective, making good watchdogs

• Bold and sometimes unaware of their small size

• Energetic and playful

Because they are highly attached to their owners, some Yorkies can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

Grooming Needs

Their long coat requires:

• Regular brushing to prevent tangles

• Routine bathing

• Professional grooming or trimming if kept in a shorter "puppy cut"

One advantage is that Yorkies shed very little compared with many other breeds.

Exercise and Training

• Daily walks and play sessions are usually sufficient.

• They respond well to positive-reinforcement training.

• Early socialization helps reduce excessive barking and nervousness around strangers.

Health Considerations

Yorkshire Terriers can be prone to certain conditions, including:

• Dental disease

• Luxating patella (kneecap problems)

• Tracheal collapse

• Low blood sugar in very young puppies

• Liver shunt (a congenital liver condition)

Are Yorkies Family Pets?

Yorkies can make excellent companions for:

• Apartment dwellers

• Singles and seniors

• Families with older children

Because of their small size and delicate bones, supervision is recommended around very young children.

Yorkshire Terriers are often considered hypoallergenic, but no dog is truly 100% allergen-free.

Yorkies tend to be a good choice for people with mild dog allergies because:

• They have hair rather than a typical dog fur coat.

• Their hair grows continuously and sheds very little.

• Less shedding means fewer allergen-containing dander particles are spread around the home.

Fun Fact

One of the most famous Yorkies was Smoky, a tiny dog that served alongside American troops during World War II and is often credited as one of the first therapy dogs.

Caring for a Yorkshire Terrier

Caring for a Yorkshire Terrier involves regular grooming, proper nutrition, exercise, training, and preventive healthcare. Yorkies are small, intelligent, affectionate dogs with some breed-specific needs.

Grooming

• Brush daily or every few days to prevent tangles and mats, especially if the coat is kept long.

• Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks is common.

• Bathe approximately every 2–4 weeks, using a dog-specific shampoo.

• Trim nails regularly, usually every 3–4 weeks.

• Clean ears and check for signs of infection.

• Brush teeth daily if possible. Yorkies are especially prone to dental disease.

Feeding

• Choose a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds.

• Feed measured portions based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level.

• Avoid overfeeding; Yorkies can gain weight easily.

• Provide fresh water at all times.

• Puppies may need more frequent meals than adults.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

• Most Yorkies do well with:

  • 20–45 minutes of exercise daily

  • Walks, play sessions, and indoor games

• They are energetic and benefit from puzzle toys and training activities.

• Because of their small size, avoid rough play and jumping from high furniture.

Training and Socialization

• Start training early using positive reinforcement.

• Socialize your Yorkie with different people, animals, and environments.

• Yorkies can be vocal and protective; consistent training helps manage excessive barking.

• House-training may take patience due to their small bladder size.

Health Care

Schedule regular veterinary checkups and keep vaccinations current. Common health concerns in Yorkshire Terriers include:

• Dental Disease

• Patellar Luxation

• Hypoglycemia (especially in puppies)

• Tracheal Collapse

Using a harness instead of attaching a leash directly to the collar can help reduce strain on the trachea.

Safety Considerations

• Yorkies are sensitive to cold weather and may need a sweater or coat in winter.

• Because they are small, watch for hazards such as larger dogs, falls, and accidentally being stepped on.

• Keep toxic foods (chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onions) out of reach.

Life Expectancy

A healthy Yorkshire Terrier often lives 11–15 years or longer with good care.

Hypoglycemia In Yorkies

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is relatively common in small-breed dogs, including Yorkshire Terrier puppies and young Yorkies. Because they have small energy reserves, their blood glucose can drop quickly if they don't eat enough, become stressed, get cold, or are ill.

Common signs of hypoglycemia in Yorkies

Symptoms can range from mild to severe:

• Weakness or lethargy

• Sleepiness or difficulty waking up

• Shaking or tremors

• Unsteady walking (staggering)

• Disorientation or confusion

• Loss of appetite

• Pale gums

• Seizures

• Collapse or unconsciousness (medical emergency)

Common causes

• Missing meals or not eating enough

• Very young age (especially under 4–6 months)

• Stress, excitement, or excessive exercise

• Intestinal parasites or illness

• Liver disorders, including congenital liver problems

• Severe infections

• Diabetes treatment errors (less common in Yorkies than in diabetic dogs generally)

What to do immediately

If you suspect hypoglycemia and your Yorkie is conscious and able to swallow:

1. Offer food immediately.

2. Rub a small amount of corn syrup, honey, or sugar water on the gums.

3. Keep the dog warm and calm.

4. Contact a veterinarian promptly, especially if symptoms are significant or recurring.

Do not try to force food or liquids into the mouth of a dog that is unconscious, having seizures, or unable to swallow, as this can cause choking.

When it's an emergency

Seek urgent veterinary care if your Yorkie:

• Has a seizure

• Collapses

• Becomes unconscious

• Doesn't improve within minutes after receiving sugar and food

• Has repeated episodes of weakness or trembling

Prevention

• Feed puppies frequent small meals throughout the day.

• Avoid long periods without food.

• Keep stress and overexertion to a minimum, especially in young puppies.

• Follow your veterinarian's feeding recommendations.

• Investigate recurring episodes, as they may indicate an underlying medical condition.

Can I Leave My Yorkie Home Alone While Working?

Adult Yorkies can stay home alone while you work, but it depends on their age, temperament, training, and how long you'll be gone.

General guidelines

• Puppies (under 6 months): Usually should not be left alone for a full workday. They need frequent potty breaks, meals, and supervision.

• Young dogs (6–18 months): May tolerate a few hours, but a full 8–9 hour day can be difficult.

• Healthy adult Yorkies: Many can handle a typical workday if they are properly trained, exercised, and have access to water and a safe environment.

• Senior dogs: Needs vary depending on health conditions and bathroom needs.

Challenges specific to Yorkies

Yorkshire Terrier are a small companion breed that often forms strong attachments to their owners. Some Yorkies are prone to:

• Separation anxiety

• Excessive barking when bored

• House-training setbacks if left too long

• Destructive chewing from stress or boredom

Making it easier for your Yorkie

Before leaving for work:

• Give them a good walk or play session.

• Provide puzzle toys or food-dispensing toys.

• Leave fresh water available.

• Create a safe area (such as a puppy-proofed room or exercise pen).

• Consider background noise like a radio or TV.

If you're gone more than about 6–8 hours regularly:

• Hire a dog walker.

• Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to stop by.

• Consider doggy daycare a few days a week.

Signs your Yorkie is struggling

You may need to adjust your routine if you notice:

• Constant barking or whining

• Accidents in the house

• Destructive behavior

• Excessive drooling or pacing

• Attempts to escape

How old is your Yorkie, and roughly how many hours would they be alone each day? That can help determine whether your specific situation is likely to work well.

How Long Can Yorkies Stay Alone During the Day?

A Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) can usually be left alone for a limited amount of time, but the appropriate duration depends on the dog's age, training, health, and temperament.

General Guidelines

• Puppies (under 6 months): Usually no more than 2–3 hours at a time. They need frequent potty breaks, meals, and social interaction.

• Young adults (6 months–2 years): Often can handle 4–6 hours if properly exercised and trained.

• Healthy adult Yorkies: Many can tolerate 6–8 hours occasionally, though shorter periods are generally better.

• Senior Yorkies: May need more frequent bathroom breaks and companionship, depending on health conditions.

Why Do Yorkies Often Struggle With Long Periods Alone?

Yorkies are companion dogs and tend to form strong attachments to their people. Some may develop:

• Separation anxiety

• Excessive barking

• Destructive behavior

• House-training setbacks

Because they're a small breed with small bladders, bathroom needs can also become a limiting factor.

Tips if You're Away During the Workday

• Provide a walk or play session before leaving.

• Leave safe toys and puzzle feeders.

• Consider a dog walker or pet sitter if you'll be gone more than 6 hours regularly.

• Use a camera to monitor behavior.

• Gradually train your Yorkie to be comfortable alone rather than making sudden long absences.

Signs Your Yorkie Is Alone Too Long

Watch for:

• Persistent barking or whining

• Chewing furniture or belongings

• Accidents in the house

• Pacing or signs of stress

• Excessive excitement when you return

Best Ways to Care for Your Yorkie When You Work Full Time

If you work full time, a Yorkie can still thrive—but they usually do best with structure, mental stimulation, and regular human interaction. Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent, social dogs and can become bored or anxious if left alone for long periods every day.

Establish a Consistent Routine

Dogs feel more secure when they know what to expect.

Example weekday schedule:

• Morning walk and bathroom break

• Breakfast

• Safe, enriched time while you're at work

• Midday potty break (if possible)

• Evening walk, playtime, training, and cuddles

• Final bathroom break before bed

Consistency helps reduce stress and house-training issues.

Arrange a Midday Potty Break

Most adult Yorkies can hold their bladder for several hours, but 8–10 hours is often too long.

Options include:

• A trusted friend, neighbor, or family member

• A professional dog walker

• Doggy daycare a few days per week

• An indoor potty solution (potty pads, litter-box or grass patch) if necessary

Puppies need much more frequent bathroom breaks.

Create an Enriching Home Environment

Prevent boredom while you're away.

Provide:

• Puzzle feeders

• Food-dispensing toys

• Safe chew toys

• Rotating toy selection to keep things interesting

You can also leave a radio, TV, or white-noise machine on at low volume if your dog seems comforted by background sounds.

Exercise Before and After Work

Yorkies are small but energetic.

Aim for:

• 20–30 minutes of activity before work

• Another walk or play session after work

• Short training sessions throughout the week

Mental exercise can tire a Yorkie as much as physical exercise.

Consider a Safe Confinement Area

Instead of giving unrestricted access to the entire home:

• Use a puppy-proofed room, exercise pen, or gated area.

• Include water, a bed, toys, and a safe place to rest.

• Avoid leaving a Yorkie in a crate all day.

Many Yorkies feel more secure in a smaller, familiar space.

Prioritize Quality Time When You're Home

Because Yorkies are companion dogs, the time you spend together matters.

Focus on:

• Walks

• Training

• Interactive play

• Grooming sessions

• Couch cuddles and attention

Even an hour of focused engagement can make a big difference.

Watch for Signs of Separation Stress

Some Yorkies are prone to separation anxiety.

Potential warning signs:

• Excessive barking

• Destructive chewing

• Accidents despite being house-trained

• Pacing or distress when you prepare to leave

If you notice these behaviors, gradual desensitization training and professional guidance from a certified trainer can help.

Best Setup for Most Full-Time Workers

A practical arrangement is:

1. Morning walk and breakfast.

2. Dog walker or potty break around midday.

3. Interactive toys while you're gone.

4. Evening exercise, training, and companionship.

Many Yorkies do very well with this routine and can be excellent companions for people who work full time, as long as their social, exercise, and bathroom needs are consistently met.

Why Does My Yorkie Bark So Much?

Yorkshire Terriers are famous for being vocal. Excessive barking doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong—it's often tied to the breed's history and temperament.

Common reasons a Yorkie barks a lot include:

Alerting You to Everything

Yorkies were originally bred to catch rats and act as watchful little companions. Many are highly alert and will bark at:

• People walking by

• Delivery drivers

• Other animals

• Unfamiliar sounds

They're often convinced it's their job to let you know about every change in their environment.

Seeking Attention

If barking has previously earned your Yorkie attention—even negative attention like scolding—they may learn that barking is an effective way to get a response.

 Boredom or Excess Energy

Yorkies are small, but they still need:

• Daily walks

• Play sessions

• Mental stimulation

A bored dog may bark simply because they have energy and nothing interesting to do.

Anxiety or Separation Distress

Some Yorkies become very attached to their owners and may bark when:

• Left alone

• They can't reach you

• Their routine changes

If barking happens mostly when you're away, separation-related anxiety may be a factor.

Fear or Uncertainty

A Yorkie may bark at things they find intimidating, such as:

• Larger dogs

• Strangers

• New environments

In these cases, barking is often an attempt to create distance from something that makes them uncomfortable.

Territorial Behavior

Many Yorkies view the home, yard, or even your lap as their territory and will bark to defend it.

How to Reduce Excessive Barking

• Reward quiet behavior rather than focusing only on barking.

• Teach a "quiet" cue by rewarding moments of silence.

• Increase exercise and enrichment.

• Limit exposure to triggers when possible (for example, blocking the view of passersby through a window).

• Avoid accidentally rewarding barking with attention.

When to Check With a Veterinarian

If the barking is:

• Sudden or out of character

• Accompanied by pacing, confusion, or restlessness

• Occurring more as your dog ages

A veterinary checkup can help rule out pain, hearing changes, cognitive issues, or other medical causes.

Can I Train My Yorkie Myself at Home?

Yes. Many Yorkies can be successfully trained at home, especially for basic manners, house training, and simple commands. The keys are consistency, patience, and using positive reinforcement.

What you can teach at home

• House training: Establish a regular schedule for meals, potty breaks, and bedtime.

• Basic commands: Sit, stay, come, down, and leave it.

• Leash walking: Start indoors or in a quiet area before introducing busier environments.

• Handling and grooming cooperation: Important for Yorkies because they require regular brushing and grooming.

• Socialization: Gradually expose your Yorkie to different people, sounds, places, and friendly dogs.

Training tips for Yorkies

• Keep sessions short: 5–10 minutes, several times a day.

• Use small, high-value treats and praise.

• Be consistent with commands and household rules.

• Avoid punishment-based methods; they can create fear and confusion.

• Yorkies are intelligent but can be independent, so persistence matters.

Example beginner schedule

Morning

• Potty break

• 5-minute training session ("sit" and "come")

Afternoon

• Short walk

• Practice leash skills and "leave it"

Evening

• Potty break

• 5-minute training session ("stay" and handling exercises)

When professional help may be useful

Consider a trainer if your Yorkie shows:

• Aggression toward people or dogs

• Severe separation anxiety

• Extreme fearfulness

• Persistent house-training problems despite consistent effort

For most Yorkies, home training works very well if you start early and practice regularly.