Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as: Yorkie
The Yorkshire Terrier is proof that great things come in small packages. One of the most popular small breeds in Australia, Yorkies combine a glamorous, silky coat with the bold, feisty personality of their terrier heritage. They are spirited, tenacious and deeply loyal to their families.
About
The Yorkshire Terrier is proof that great things come in small packages. One of the most popular small breeds in Australia, Yorkies combine a glamorous, silky coat with the bold, feisty personality of their terrier heritage. They are spirited, tenacious and deeply loyal to their families.
History
Yorkshire Terriers were developed in the mid-19th century in Yorkshire, England, to catch rats in clothing mills and coal mines. They were bred from a mix of terriers including the Waterside Terrier, Paisley Terrier and Clydesdale Terrier. By the late Victorian era, the Yorkie had transitioned from working dog to fashionable companion.
Care & Health
Tracheal collapse is a common and serious condition — use a harness, never a collar. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can be life-threatening in toy-sized Yorkies; feed small meals throughout the day. Dental disease is almost universal in small breeds without active prevention.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- England
- Life Span
- 13–20 years
- Size
- small
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Daily
- Good with Kids
- low
- Exercise Needs
- low
- Feeding Cost
- $5–$10 p/w
- Colours
- Blue and tan. Puppies are born black and tan, clearing to blue by adulthood.
Exercise
Exercise needs: low
Moderate daily walks and indoor play are sufficient. Yorkies are active enough to partially self-exercise indoors.
Health Considerations
Recommended Insurance for Yorkshire Terrier
Responsible Yorkshire Terrier ownership includes preparing for potential health challenges.
- ■Patellar Luxation — typical treatment cost: $1,500–$4,000 per knee
- ■Portosystemic Shunt — typical treatment cost: $3,000–$7,000
- ■Tracheal Collapse — typical treatment cost: $2,000–$5,000
- ■Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of diagnostics, surgery and ongoing treatment for these conditions. Many Australian providers offer plans starting from around $30–$60 per month for smaller breeds, with annual benefit limits of $10,000–$25,000.
🛡️ Don’t wait until it’s too late
Pre-existing conditions are never covered. Insuring your Yorkshire Terrier while they’re young and healthy gives you the broadest coverage at the lowest premium.
Protect your Yorkshire Terrier with the right insurance plan →Grooming
Long silky coat requires daily brushing if kept long. Many owners opt for a short "puppy cut" for practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Yorkshire Terrier cost in Australia?
Is the Yorkshire Terrier good with children?
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
What health problems are common in Yorkshire Terriers?
Does the Yorkshire Terrier shed a lot?
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Maltese
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds. Pure white silky coat and dark soulful eyes. Feisty, fearless and playful. Best suited to adults or families with older, gentle children.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, fluffy white dog with a gentle, affectionate nature. Bred as companions for European royalty. Playful, adaptable and people-oriented. Excellent choice for allergy sufferers due to low shedding.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a dignified little dog with a long flowing coat. Bred as companions for Chinese royalty. Affectionate, sociable and adaptable — one of the most popular breeds in Australia. Excellent apartment dogs.