Teacup Yorkshire Terrier Facts

A Word About "Teacup" Yorkies

• When looking to adopt your first Yorkie, beware: There are many unscrupulous breeders who will attempt to market their dogs as "teacup," "micro mini," "teeny" or any other euphemism for "tiny." In truth, there is no such breed as a teacup Yorkshire terrier--this is merely a selling ploy, and it is greatly discouraged by the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (YTCA). While some Yorkies may be naturally small, an actual attempt on the part of a breeder to produce extra-tiny dogs is considered unethical and dangerous, as these very tiny dogs almost always incur health problems due to their extraordinarily small size. When looking for reputable breeders, check with the YTCA, or better yet, adopt a homeless Yorkie through the Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue, Inc.

History

• The Yorkshire terrier, named for the town of Yorkshire, England, was originally a dog of the working class, bred to catch rats in clothing mills. According to Dog Breed Info, the Yorkie is most likely descended from several breeds of terriers such as the Skye, Waterside and Clydesdale terriers, and was much larger than the diminutive creature we know today. In 1861, by now a domesticated dog of the upper class, it made it's official debut at a bench show as the "broken-haired Scotch terrier". By 1870, it had acquired the name Yorkshire terrier, after the town in which it "grew up."

Appearance

• The Yorkshire terrier is a tiny, compact dog that typically stands 6 to 7 inches tall and weighs from 5 to 8 pounds. It possesses a fine, silky coat that is a silvery-blue color over most of its body and tan on its head, neck and legs. It has round, bright eyes, a black button nose and erect or semi-erect pointed ears. According the Official Yorkie Guide, the Yorkie stands in a distinctively upright posture, carrying itself proudly at all times.

Temperament

• Although the personality of each dog will differ in unique ways, generally speaking the Yorkie is all terrier--spunky, confident, full of energy and not at all aware of its small size. Yorkies are extremely sweet, loyal and affectionate with their people. However, heed this warning: because of the its small size and cherubic face, many Yorkie owners tend to let their little darlings get away with too much. This is a huge mistake, for with the Yorkies strong sense of self comes the potential for aggression and dominant behavior if it is not trained properly. Gentle, assertive training is an absolute must, as is early socialization with other people and dogs.

Grooming

• As you can imagine, with the Yorkie's abundant coat, consistent grooming is essential. Frequent bathing, as with any dog, is unnecessary and may dry the Yorkie's skin, but weekly brushing is absolutely necessary to prevent mats and tangles. Ears should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. The Yorkie's teeth demand exacting attention; as with most small dogs, the Yorkie's teeth are prone to decay due to excesses of tartar and plaque, so its teeth must be brushed on a regular basis.

Health Concerns

• Yorkshire terriers are generally healthy dogs, and enjoy a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. However, as with most breeds, there are some health issues of particular concern. Yorkies can be prone to digestive disorders, so a healthy, consistent diet is essential. Due to their small size and fragile frames, they can suffer bone breaks or fractures if subjected to rough play or allowed to jump from high places. Other health concerns include herniated discs, liver shunt and hypoglycemia.