Archive for the ‘Breed Info’ Category

What is the life span of a Yorkshire Terrier?

Ann | November 11th, 2009

For good breeders, you should have a healthy Yorkie that can live up to 15 years. The lifespan of a Yorkshire Terrier is longer compared to other breeds. This is an important thing to consider before buying or adopting this breed of dog.

Yorkshire Terrier puppy

Taking a yorkie at home is a commitment that is not taken lightly.  If you can’t take care of this dog for 15 years, it is better to postpone buying one until you are ready to do so. Now that you have an idea about the lifespan of Yorkshire terriers, take note of the age when they will become prone to illness and injury. More trips to the vet are needed. Arthritis is the most common illness for them but the good news is that there are medications to ease the pain and improve their life. Remember that their lifespan can reach up to 15 years so make sure you give them the best life possible.

Are Male or Female Yorkies Better as Pets?

D Dog Fan | March 13th, 2008

As an avid fan of this little dog breed, I often scout the intenet, looking for other Yorkie Terrier blogs. I found a great Miniature Yorkie Blog, and its contents are trully inspiring. The author posed a very interesting question: ” Is it better to get a male or a female Yorkie?”

Well, let us analyse this point a bit. According to my research:

- Male yorkies are usually more affectionate, exuberant, and attentive as compared to females. They seek your attention and are very attached to their people. They also tend to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody.
- Most females will usually come to you for attention, but as soon as she has had enough, she will move away. Males are always waiting for your attention and close by.
- In the dog pack framework, females usually rule the roost, and initiate more fights than males do.
- Because female yorkies are, more independent, stubborn, territorial and male yorkies are easily motivated by praise, and are very eager to please, it is often people’s experience that training a male is easier.
- Males on the other hand lose interest far quicker than females do.
- Females are much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in alpha behaviors such as humping and in fighting.
- Male yorkies tend to bond to the woman in the household and female yorkies bond to the man in the household.

I guess the bottom line is that there is no correct answer. What are your beliefs? Are male of female Yorkies better to have as pets?

The Big Dog in a Small Body….

D Dog Fan | January 18th, 2008

Although the Yorkie is considered to be a toy breed, the Terrier personality is totally noticable in this little dog. There may be differences of course in every Individual dog but Yorkies all tend to be courageous, intelligent and independent little dogs. Yorkshire Terriers are quick to determine where they fit in a household’s “pack.” Often aloof and untrusting of strangers, Yorkies are more family-oriented dogs and share this trait with their cousins: the Biewer Yorkie. Some Yorkies however, may be very friendly and outgoing towards strangers, so this does vary. But as a character trait, they are more aloof than friendly with outsiders. These differences can be attributed to how an owner socializes these little dogs from the start.

The breed standard dictates that they should be assertive, confident and vigorous although some Yorkies may be timid or nervous, which is not at all common. In a home, where there are many breeds, Yorkies usually assert themselves as the “alpha” dog. They love to play with other dogs, and get along with many breeds without a problem. Its asserted boldness comes from an instinct to protect, from latent inquisitiveness and a great dose of self-confidence! Often being unaware of their small size, they may challenge a larger dog too! Although it all seems rather funny and ridiculous, Yorkies are very tough and would like to be respected for their assertiveness. After all, no good being a loving pet, if they can’t defend those they love, right? Sadly a lot of Yorkies get injured, by this very same stubborn streak. Dynamite comes in small packages…seems to be the case! Like Josh Groban sings…”Everybody wants to be understood”…This applies for a Yorkie too, I reckon.

Yorkie Love