Yorkshire Terrier Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

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Bold Confident Spirited Affectionate

About the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier was developed in the mid-19th century in the English counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire by working-class weavers who bred small terriers to catch rats in textile mills and coal mines. Despite their current status as a glamorous toy breed, these feisty dogs retain every bit of their terrier courage in a tiny 7-pound, 7-to-8-inch frame. Their signature floor-length, silky coat is steel blue on the body and rich golden tan on the head and legs — a single-layer coat that grows continuously and is remarkably similar to human hair in texture.

Temperament & Personality

Yorkshire Terriers are bold, confident, and fiercely loyal — they carry themselves with a self-importance that far exceeds their diminutive stature, never hesitating to challenge dogs ten times their size. They are deeply attached to their owners and can be wonderful companions for adults and older children, though their small size and feisty temperament make them a poor fit for rough play with toddlers. Yorkies are intelligent, curious, and entertaining, bringing big-dog energy and attitude to the smallest package in the terrier world.

Pros

  • Minimal shedding — silky coat is more similar to hair than fur
  • Tiny size ideal for apartments, travel, and urban living
  • Bold watchdog temperament — always alert to unusual activity
  • Long lifespan of 11 to 15 years with proper care

Cons

  • Fragile — easily injured by falls, being sat on, or rough handling
  • Long coat demands daily brushing or regular professional grooming
  • Prone to tracheal collapse, patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, and dental disease
  • Can be difficult to housetrain and may develop snappish behavior if overindulged

Yorkshire Terriers prove that the best things truly come in small packages — find your Yorkie on Puplister.

Yorkshire Terrier Quick Facts

Size
4–7 lbs, 7–8 in
Lifespan
11–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Not recommended
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available Yorkshire Terriers

Keith
Adult
Keith
S

Yorkshire Terrier

Easel Animal Rescue League · Lawrenceville, NJ
Cashew
Young
Cashew
S

Yorkshire Terrier

Easel Animal Rescue League · Lawrenceville, NJ
Regina
Senior
Regina
M

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkie911 Rescue · North Babylon, NY
Dorgle
Senior 1
Dorgle
S

Yorkshire Terrier / Maltese

Homeward Bound Pet Rescue · Ellijay, GA
Royce
Adult
Royce
M

Yorkshire Terrier

Friends of Rocky Mount Animals · Rocky Mount, NC
Harper
Adult
Harper
S

Yorkshire Terrier

They Deserve Better Dog Rescue · Smithfield, PA
Tommy
Young 1
Tommy
S

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkie911 Rescue · North Babylon, NY
Precious
Baby

Shih Tzu / Yorkshire Terrier

Rescues On The Runway · Santa Clarita, CA

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Yorkshire Terrier?
The Yorkshire Terrier is known for being bold, confident, spirited and affectionate.
How many Yorkshire Terriers are available for adoption?
There are currently 22 Yorkshire Terriers available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Yorkshire Terrier from Puplister?
To adopt a Yorkshire Terrier, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.