The Yorkshire toy is a smaller dog than the standard Yorkshire Terrier, from which it has retained all its qualities. Very affectionate, dynamic and courageous, it’s also a loyal and intelligent animal.
Qualities which, unfortunately, he is capable of developing to excess. They also have a naturally independent spirit, requiring their owners to start training them from an early age.
HISTORY AND ORIGINS OF THE YORKSHIRE
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in Great Britain, in the county of Yorkshire to be precise. At the beginning of the 19th century, Scottish miners tried to obtain a small, stubborn and combative dog, capable of digging up rabbits and rats in underground tunnels. This unrivalled hunter was to emerge through crossbreeding with the Skie, Manchester Terrier and Maltese.
The first Yorkshire Terrier was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1878. By constantly striving to reduce its size to enable it to sneak up more easily, the Yorkshire soon became smaller than its prey. This, combined with the gradual closure of the mines, almost led to the Yorkshire Terrier’s extinction.
It was the Yorkshire Terrier’s love of its master and its unrivalled ability to hunt vermin that made it such a popular companion dog.
Over the years, especially in France, breeders have continued to reduce the size of the Yorkshire Terrier to create the dwarf Yorkshire, also known as the Yorkshire toy or mini Yorkshire.
APPEARANCE
The Yorkshire Toy is a small, long-haired dog. A stripe runs along the top of the spine, dividing the coat on both sides. The coat is dark steel blue, except for the head and extremities, which are fawn. The coat is soft and glossy. It needs to be trimmed regularly, as it grows very fast. The Yorkshire does not shed, so it does not lose its hair.
They have straight, V-shaped ears. The body is well proportioned, with firm loins. Their eyes are very expressive, reflecting their intelligence. Yorkshire Toys weigh no more than 2.5 kg.
TEMPERAMENT/CHARACTER
The Yorkshire Toy is a lively, playful and intelligent dog. It defends the house by barking when strangers approach. Courageous but reckless, he may even attack intruders or larger dogs, regardless of his small size.
His terrier nature means he’s always on the alert, ready to hunt down prey. This quality serves him well in the game he loves to play: ball-throwing. He plays easily with children, provided they are not intrusive. He also plays well on his own.
The Yorkshire Toy is very attached to its master. He must always be close to him, or at least be able to see him.
HYGIENE/CLEANING
The Yorkshire Terrier’s hair is very long and always growing. It’s important to comb them at least once a day. Owners often attach a rubber band to prevent the long hair from falling into the dog’s eyes.
As part of a daily cleaning routine, care should be taken of the eyes, ears and teeth. Yorkies tend to accumulate dental tartar.
EDUCATION
The Yorkshire is an affectionate and loyal animal, but it also has a temper and is stubborn. It’s important to start training him from an early age. Cleanliness is a fundamental point, as Yorkies easily relieve themselves in the house.
Very attached to his master, he finds it very difficult to stay away from him and therefore alone all day. Education is essential to living in harmony with your Yorkshire.
HEALTH AND ACTIVITY
Because of its small size, the Yorkshire dwarf is content with a short outing and a few games every day. These exercises are crucial to keeping your Yorkshire in good health. More than its parent, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Miniature Yorkshire loves life in an apartment. They’ll laze around for hours on end, and the more attention you pay to them, the happier they’ll be.
The average lifespan of the Yorkshire Terrier is 15 years. However, as the Yorkshire Toy is reputed to be more fragile, this average lifespan is slightly lower. The most common health problems are unstable or dislocated kneecaps, tracheal collapse and, to a lesser extent, Legg-Perthes-Calvé disease.
ADOPTING A DWARF YORKSHIRE
Buying a Miniature Yorkshire from a private owner will cost you around 500 euros, but you won’t get a certificate. If you contact a breeder, you’ll probably have to pay between twice and four times that price, but you’ll have the precious document. To establish a realistic budget, don’t forget to add the various accessories (cushions, leash, toys…) as well as insurance.
If you like Yorkies, you’ll be happy to know that it’s a good idea to buy one.