The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, has been a beloved dog breed since its development in the nineteenth century, winning the hearts of millions. Despite its popularity, many may not be aware that there are seven distinct types of Yorkie breeds. Let’s explore these variations to help you identify your favorite among them!
Choosing the Best Yorkie Dog Breed
The Yorkshire Terrier is cherished as a loyal companion, adored both as a beloved pet and as a show dog. While some may not realize it, there are several distinct breeds of Yorkies available today. Understanding the unique traits of each type can help you find the perfect Yorkie with the desired size and coloration to suit your preferences!
The 7 Yorkie Breeds
7. Teacup Yorkies
Yorkies are already recognized for their petite size, but there’s an even tinier variant known as the teacup Yorkie. Teacup Yorkies typically reach a maximum height of 9 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 6-7 pounds.
These diminutive dogs are purebred and compact enough to fit into a handbag, making them convenient travel companions even in urban environments like subways. However, due to their small stature, they may be more prone to health issues, requiring diligent care to ensure their well-being.
6. Mismarked Yorkies
Yorkie enthusiasts often prioritize uniformity in coat appearance, but not everyone seeks a standard look. Fortunately, there’s a niche for those who appreciate Yorkies with unique colorations and markings. Mismarked Yorkies don’t form a separate breed but rather exhibit atypical patterns on their bodies.
These variations occur regularly, making mismarked Yorkies relatively common. However, their distinct appearance can make them easily recognizable and prevent them from blending into a crowd.
5. Parti Yorkies
As previously mentioned, traditional Yorkies typically have two-color coats in variations such as blue and gold, black and tan, blue and tan, or black and gold. Parti Yorkies, however, exhibit a distinctive trait of having three colors in their coat.
These dogs are notable for their playful demeanor and eye-catching color combinations, making them stand out from the regular breed.
4. Biewer Yorkshire Terrier
The Biewer Terrier, pronounced “Beaver,” is a variation of the Yorkie breed that emerged in the 1980s. It is distinct for its distinctive coloring, which includes a significant amount of white alongside the traditional Yorkie hues.
Through thorough analysis, it has been established as a separate breed with roots in Yorkies, Maltese, Havanese, and Bichon Frisés.
3. Designer Yorkies or Yorkie Mixes
Many people are drawn to the idea of mixing Yorkies with other breeds, resulting in what are often referred to as Designer Yorkies or Yorkie Mixes. For instance, combining a Yorkie with a fox terrier produces a “Torkie.”
Chihuahuas and bichon frisés are also commonly used to create designer dogs with Yorkies. It’s worth noting that Designer Yorkies are believed to inherit the temperament of the other breed involved in the mix. Therefore, if you have a Chorkie, you might expect a small and vocal companion!
2. Black Yorkies
While the classic blue and gold, black and tan, blue and tan, or black and gold variations are commonly associated with Yorkies, it’s intriguing to note that these adorable companions can also appear entirely in black. However, all-black Yorkies are exceptionally rare and typically not considered purebred if they lack the traditional coloration.
The breeding process to produce all-black Yorkies involves crossing them with other breeds, resulting in a unique appearance and possibly distinct behavioral traits compared to purebred Yorkies. Nonetheless, they retain their inherent charm and make wonderful companions, despite their non-traditional coloring.
1. Original Yorkshire Terrier
The traditional Yorkshire Terrier holds numerous accolades for being one of the smallest dog breeds globally. Characterized by their playful nature and constant quest for adventure, these dogs are a bundle of energy and affection. Their distinctive features include coats in black, gold, tan, and blue hues, with popular combinations such as blue and gold, black and tan, blue and tan, and black and gold.
Their fur, which can vary from long to short, requires regular grooming, especially for competition purposes, where a well-groomed Yorkie is a sight to behold. Beyond their striking appearance, Yorkshire Terriers boast a range of desirable traits. They are hypoallergenic due to their minimal shedding, making them suitable companions for allergy sufferers. However, they can be prone to loneliness and thrive in households with other pets, a characteristic common among many dog breeds.