The “Duke” of Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terrier also affectionately known as the “Yorkie” is among one of the most popular breeds ranked by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They trail closely behind the ever popular Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Beagles and Bulldogs.
Where did the Yorkie get its name?
When this breed first came onto the scene during the 1800’s it was actually referred to by three different names, none of which stuck. This breed was originally named the, Broken Haired Scotch Terrier, Broken Haired Toy Terrier or simply Toy Terrier. It wasn’t until the 1970’s, the name Yorkshire terrier was adopted to honor the place where the breed began.
When did the Yorkie become so popular in the United States?
This breed was popular from the very beginning for its loving temperament and companionship. Shortly after this dog was first bred in England, they were introduced to North America in 1872 and officially registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885. The popularity of the breed briefly dropped during in the 1940s as the trend grew away from having small dogs as pets and grew into owning larger breeds. However, it didn’t take long for their popularity to resume.
What was the Yorkie bred for?
Originally, the rascally little pup was put to work as an exterminator or what was once called, a ratter. Though, many generations later they are still as feisty as their ancestors, they are seldom used to get rid of vermin. Today, they are bred as a companion breed.
Do Yorkie’s bark a lot?
Yes! But don’t view this as a bad thing as these loyal little dogs make for excellent watch dogs. This breed is very curious and can become easily bored, which can also stir up some of their, “yappy” tendencies. Keeping them busy with activity and safe toys will help control their vocal demands.
Does the Yorkie really have teeth like a human?
Well sort of…
Similar to a human, this breed will also have two sets of teeth in their lifetime. The Yorkie puppy will have no teeth until they reach between the ages of three and eight weeks old. They will then develop 28 teeth called, milk teeth. By the age of 4 months they will have lost the first set and will have begun growing their second of teeth known as their adult teeth. A Yorkshire terrier will usually have 42 adult teeth.
Does the Yorkie hold the record for the smallest dog?
Yes. Though, not all Yorkie’s are so small. The breed to hold the record for smallest dog is in fact a Yorkie by the name of Sylvia who lived with her owner in Blackburn, England. It is recorded that she measured just 2.5 inches high at the shoulder and was only 3.5 inches long from the tip of her nose to the end of her tail. If you can imagine it, this pup was approximately the size of a matchbox and weighed only four ounces.
Yorkie’s are small dogs filled with a huge personality and a lot of love and affection to give. If you or someone you know is looking to bring home a Yorkie of your own, please visit: premierpups.com today.