There are not many dog lovers that can resist the Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkie is described as "a remarkable man-made creation of the mid 19th century."  The countries of Yorkshire and Lanashire crossed many different terriers to finally end up with the Yorkshire Terrier. It is believed that the Yokshire Terrier is some of Toy Manchester Terrier, Maltese, Sky Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Paisley Terrier and the Clydsdale Terrier. This is still up for debate and continues to be argued.

     What we know is that we now have a placid lap dog, that is sure that he is as big as a Great Dane and as strong as a Pit Bull. Many Yorkies have been hurt by the bigger breed dogs, they are not afraid of them and the bigger dogs don't really know their strength. It is advised that while playing with the bigger dogs that the Yorkie is supervised

  Children and Yorkies are natural companions. Caution is in order for families with small children. We recomend that families with toddlers wait until their children are least five to get a Yorkie puppy, and then get one that is going to be larger, even over 7 pounds. The smaller Yorkies are fragile and they do break!! Or for families with toddlers should consider adpoting an adult Yorkie.

     This breed is very adaptable to family life. They easily operate on any schedule that is given them. They bond completely with their family, when something is amiss such as a family member late getting home, they will not be able to sleep and relax. The one who feeds them will have an extra special place, but they will totally love and care for all of thier people.

 

 

     Eyes:  Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and ulcerative keratitis.  These are conditions that your vet will be able to detect in your regular wellness exams and all are treatable.

     Orthopedic:  Legg-Calve-Perthes and Luxating Patella. These are two conditions common in toy breeds and both are conditions that your vet is able to treat.

     Von Willebrands disease: This is a congenital bleeding disorder seen in many breeds, including the Yorkie. Your vet is aware of this disease and can help you with early detection.    

     Miscellaneous: The soft trachea of the toy breeds make the need for using a halter rather than a collar a very smart decision, also the need to keep your dog from getting overweight is essential to keeping this condition at bay.

     As in all toy breeds, the teeth are of concern. A diet of kibble is what we reccomend to keep those teeth clean and healthy. 

     The key to keeping any dog happy and healthy is regular vet check ups. Your dog should go to the vet once a year for his check up.

     All in all the Yorkie is a very healthy and happy dog. They are great family dogs as well as a one person dog. They are a very versitle breed with a lot of love to give. The biggest requirement for owning a Yorkie is that you have a lot of love to give.