What Is a Baby Doll Face Yorkie?

Yorkshire terriers -- intelligent, energetic toy dogs with silky tan and blue-gray coats -- are known for their cheerful, bright-eyed expressions. As if the average Yorkie isn't cute enough, some breeders market their dogs as "baby doll face" Yorkies. Although baby doll faced Yorkies are bred to have certain specific, babyish facial features, they are not recognized as a distinct dog breed by the American Kennel Club. A healthy, well-bred baby doll face Yorkie, however, is within the breed standard for AKC-recognized Yorkshire terriers.

  1. Distinction from Average Yorkies

    • Baby doll face Yorkies have a shorter muzzle and smaller head compared to most Yorkies. Their eyes, nose and chin form a heart shape. Baby doll face Yorkies come in a range of sizes and individual dogs may or may not conform to the AKC breed standard.

    Breed Standards for Yorkshire Terriers

    • Yorkshire terriers should have a small, not-too-round head with a flat top, a short muzzle and a scissors or level bite. Its head, legs and body should be proportionate and level, and the dog should weigh less than seven pounds. The Yorkie's coat should be straight, glossy and silky with blue and tan coloring. The facial characteristics of a healthy, proportionate baby doll Yorkie would not disqualify it from the show ring.

    Where to Find Baby Doll Face Yorkies

    • To ensure a good quality pup and to avoid supporting cruel and careless breeding practices, it is best to purchase your baby doll face Yorkie from an AKC-certified breeder. You can find a reputable breeder database by going to the American Kennel Club website. Alternately, you can adopt a dog from your local animal shelter.

    Precautions

    • Some baby doll face Yorkies are advertised as "tea cup" Yorkies. These dogs weigh less than three pounds and have a much shorter life span than average Yorkies. Due to the small size of Yorkshire terriers in general, the breed is not recommended for homes with young children. Potential Yorkshire terrier owners should be aware that the dogs, though intelligent, are notoriously difficult to housebreak and respond best to crate training and positive reinforcement.