Overview & Temperament
The Yorkshire Terrier, commonly called the Yorkie, is a toy breed famous for its silky coat, confident nature, and loving attachment to owners.
In India, Yorkies are extremely popular due to their small size, low shedding, and suitability for apartments, though they require regular grooming and careful handling.
Personality Traits
- Affectionate and owner-focused
- Very confident despite small size
- Can be vocal and alert
- Highly attached and loves attention
- Good watchdog but not aggressive
Energy & Activity
- Moderate daily activity needs
- Short walks and indoor play are enough
- Enjoys learning tricks and routines
- Can become anxious if bored or ignored
Living Conditions in India
Climate Considerations
Yorkies tolerate Indian summers but must not be overexposed to heat due to small size.
- • Ideal temperature: 18° to 32°C
- • Summer care: Avoid hot floors and midday heat, keep indoors with fans/AC
- • Hydration: Clean water available all day
- • Best cities: Suitable for most Indian cities with indoor lifestyle
Ideal Living Situation
- ✓ Apartments
- ✓ Families and seniors
- ✓ Indoor companion homes
- ✓ First-time pet parents
- ✓ Homes with regular grooming
Challenging Situations
- ✗ Rough handling by very small children
- ✗ Outdoor-only living
- ✗ Homes with long isolation hours
- ✗ Owners unwilling to maintain coat care
Daily Exercise Requirements
Tailstart Tip: Yorkies are energetic but do not need long outdoor exercise sessions.
Cost of Owning a Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
Initial Purchase Cost
Price depends on breeder lineage, coat quality, and demand in Indian metro cities.
Monthly Expenses
Grooming is a significant recurring cost due to long silky coat.
Food & Nutrition
Ideal Nutrition Balance
Feeding Guidelines
3 meals/day, 150-250g total
2 meals/day, 200-300g total
2 meals/day, 180-280g total
Best Food Options in India
- Royal Canin Mini Adult
- Farmina N&D Small Breed
- Orijen Small Breed
- Vet-approved home diet for toy dogs
Foods to Avoid
Health & Lifespan
Expected Lifespan
Yorkies are long-living toy dogs but require dental and joint care.
Indian climate note: Heat stress is manageable with proper indoor care.
Common Health Conditions
Dental Problems
Toy breeds often develop plaque and tooth loss early
Prevention: Daily brushing and dental chews
Patellar Luxation
Knee joint slipping common in toy breeds
Prevention: Avoid jumping from heights and maintain weight
Tracheal Collapse
Small breed airway weakness causing coughing
Prevention: Use harness instead of collar
Recommended Vet Care Schedule
Daily Care Routine
Grooming Requirements
Regular Tasks
Prevents tangles in silky coat.
Use mild shampoo for sensitive toy breeds.
Professional grooming highly recommended.
Professional Grooming
Every 6-8 weeks
Full grooming session with professional
Services include:
Haircut, bath, ear cleaning, hygiene trim
Tailstart Grooming: Yorkies require consistent grooming to maintain coat quality.
Exercise Routine
40-60 min
Total daily exercise
1-2 short walks
Per day minimum
Moderate
Running, swimming, fetch
Ideal Activities
Training & Mental Stimulation
Why Training is Essential
Yorkies are smart but can be stubborn without routine training.
Basic Commands (3-6 months)
- Sit, Stay, Recall
- Toilet training
Mental Stimulation Ideas
- Puzzle toys
- Short obedience sessions
Training Tip
Gentle consistency works best — avoid harsh corrections with toy breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Breeds You Might Like
Explore other friendly, active breeds perfect for Indian families
