It’s Yorkie Day! These adorable pups may be small, but they have big personalities and some raving fans. A veterinarian turns the spotlight on these tiny, charming pups below.
Basics
The Yorkie is one of the smallest dog breeds out there, rarely growing over 8 inches tall. Like many other small dogs, they definitely have some longevity: these little guys can live up to 16 years. That’s quite a lot for a dog! As far as personality goes, Yorkies are very cuddly and affectionate. However, they can get a bit feisty. Fido is a great little watchdog, at least as far as letting you know there is someone at the door. However, he also thinks everyone is his best buddy, so he’s not very protective. Yorkies can be more vocal than other dogs, so if you want a quiet pooch, this may not be the best choice for you.
Care
Yorkies don’t shed or drool a lot. However, because they have that long, silky fur, they do need daily brushing. Your pet may also benefit from regular trims.
Health
Yorkies are prone to certain health issues, such as bronchitis, cataracts, and skin problems. They’re also notorious for having sensitive stomachs, so you’ll need to be careful what you feed Fido. It’s also worth noting that, because they’re so small, Yorkies can get seriously hurt in falls. Even tumbling off a bed or couch can cause serious injuries! They’re also a bit clumsy, which is cute but concerning.
Temperament
The Yorkie is usually quite smart, and tends to be pretty trainable. These guys are quite energetic, and need plenty of playtime and stimulation. They are prone to separation anxiety, however, and get very lonely when left alone. You may want to get your pooch a buddy to keep him company.
Fun Facts
Fido has gained a few nicknames over the course of time. Yorkies are sometimes called Tomboy Toys, because of their daring, feisty demeanors. They were also once called the Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier. Yorkshire Terrier is definitely a more cheerful name!
Famous Yorkies
There have been a few celebrity Yorkies. First we have Sylvia, the smallest dog in recorded history. That tiny pup was only 2.4 inches tall! Another famous Yorkie was Smoky, a war hero of World War II. That pup saved several lives by dragging a communication cable through a tunnel. Of course, we think all Yorkies deserve to be celebrated.
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