The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as a Yorkie, is a breed of small dog, one of many toy breeds. Yorkies can
be very small, usually weighing between 5 and 8 lbs.
The breed standard calls for a long, blue and gold coat that hangs straight and parts down the middle. However,
many Yorkies do not conform directly to the standard. Some coats are black or grey on the body. Gold is on the
face and legs. The hair is usually straight and can grow very long.
Yorkies can also have somewhat wavy hair, although it is not acceptable for show dogs. In either case, Yorkie hair
is soft, fine, and high-maintenance, and must either be trimmed short or washed and brushed frequently. Show dogs often
have their hair wrapped in rice paper, after a light oiling. This prevents the hairs from being broken easily, and keep
the coat in condition.
The Yorkshire Terrier, although a toy breed, still retains much of its Terrier ancestry in terms of personality.
Though personalities differ from dog to dog generally Yorkies are intelligent, independent and spunky. Yorkies, especially
males, are very territorial and are known for their disregard for the limitations of their own size. They will often
attack much larger dogs despite the extreme size disadvantage
Yorkies typically get along well with cats and other dogs and love to play together in groups. However, they are
still Terriers, and even an old, sedentary lap dog will eagerly hunt rodents. Because they are so small, they are easily
injured, so while they will get along well with children, it can be dangerous for the Yorkie if the children are abusive.
