The Yorkshire Terrier (nicknamed Yorkie), is a breed of small dog in the toy category. The long-haired terrier is known for their playful behavior and shelter blue and so distinctive. Yorkies can be very small, usually weighing over 7 pounds. The American Kennel Club does not specify the minimum weight accepted nor does it specify height. Based on records from the region of America Kennel Club, Yorkshire Terriers became the second most popular dog breed in the United States in 2006, following the Labrador Retriever.

Yorkies originated in Yorkshire and Lancaster, England in the nineteenth century. The Yorkie was bred as a ratter, used to kill mice and rats in small places. They may have been used for hunting. Terriers specialize in hunting animals (usually insects) that live in caves or burrows. Animals that are cornered and defending their young to fight fiercely. Any dog that would be willing to pursue them must have a high degree of value terriers are bred for that quality.

The Yorkie being a small breed does not necessarily mean fragile. Yorkies have an athletic body and very playful. As a working dog a Yorkies intelligence makes wonderful for agility and obedience. Yorkies are generally easy to house train. But sometimes, because of their independence can be difficult to housebreak. For your own safety it is better to train crate them and leave them in a crate when left alone, eg during the night or if their owners are out of the house. Always leave them some toys and fresh water, and make sure they have a cozy bed inside the box. Remember that as they do enjoy human company they do not appreciate being left alone for extended periods.

Long hair without coating which means less shedding. Its fur is very like human hair which only falls out when broken or brushed. Yorkies have little dander, good for allergy sufferers. The coat is silky, glossy, fine, and should be straight. The traditional coat is extremely high maintenance and needs several hours of daily brushing. For pets the coat is usually kept in a shorter pet clip. Any pets getting a Yorkie must remember that not be additional costs in preparation for consideration. A Yorkies ears stand erect and the tail should be docked medium length. The hair should be plucked from inside the ears, and checked regularly for excessive wax and mites. The hair should also be kept out of his eyes. Likewise, the tartar from the teeth must be removed periodically, especially because the Yorkie is a Toy breed. Although there is an additional expense for grooming, Yorkies eat very little, thus the owner saves money.

Yorkies are often very susceptible to hypoglycemia especially in puppies, but often the performance in adulthood. Because of their small size they also are sometimes intolerant to anesthesia. The lifespan of a Yorkie is generally 12 to 15 years, but can be shorter in the smaller ones (three pounds or less).

The temperament of a Yorkie varies greatly depending on how it's been socialized by its owner. Some are timid and shy, while others are bold and confident. But the Most are intelligent, curious, and auto firm. A lot of Yorkies have a big dog attitude not realizing their small size, you can get in trouble and serious danger. This does not always making them suitable pets for younger children.

Before buying a Yorkie, find a reputable breeder. Learn all you can about the breed. And make sure your reputable breeder or yourself has been proven that the Yorkie vet to make sure it is healthy. Also, do not buy any puppy unless it has had a bile acids test run before and after eating, and you have seen the test results. Liver shunt is spreading in many breeds of dogs right now and especially in Yorkshire Terriers. Any responsible breeder will be more than happy to have a veterinarian perform this test simple blood on their puppies. Breeders begin testing their favor, before selling the puppies. Even with the extra expense of grooming and the extra care they need the Yorkie can make a wonderful pet and companion.

About the Author:

Randy and Penny Taylor – Expert Breeders and Owners
http://www.passionforpuppies.com
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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – An Extremely Intelligent Dog, the Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier (Dog Training)