We’re celebrating the Yorkie today! This cute, cheerful pup usually makes the top ten list of most popular dogs. As of last summer, Fido was sitting pretty in the number six spot. There are lots of reasons why these little dogs have become such beloved pets. A local Derby, KS vet discusses this charming pup below.

What Do Yorkies Look Like?

Most Yorkies weigh less than seven pounds and stand less than nine inches, which definitely makes them one of our smallest canine companions. The Yorkie’s most striking feature has to be their silky, glossy coats, which look more like human hair than typical fur.

Don’t let that small size fool you: Fido may be small, but he’s quite feisty. He’s also very loyal, loving, and affectionate.

Are Yorkies Healthy?

Yorkies are typically pretty sturdy. There are a few recommended tests, such as the Patella and Ophthalmologist evaluations. It’s also worth noting that the Yorkie can sometimes develop a condition called patellar luxation. This causes the kneecap to move out of place, resulting in a pronounced limp. Other common issues include tracheal collapse, dental disease, and liver shunts. They can also sometimes be prone to low blood sugar.

Of course, a good care regimen will go a long way in keeping Fido happy and healthy. Ask your veterinarian for specific advice, including tips on your four-legged companion’s diet and care needs.

Do Yorkies Need A Lot Of Grooming?

The Yorkie is not the most low-maintenance pup on our roster. You’ll need to brush your fuzzy friend daily. You’ll also need to take care to keep Fido’s fur from growing into his eyes. Fido will also need to be bathed pretty frequently. On a brighter note: these guys do not shed much. Yorkies do not have undercoats, and that fine fur doesn’t repel dirt the way a more coarse coat would. There are some variations in fur types here: the Yorkie may sport a cotton, woolly, or double coat. The Yorkshire Terrier Club of America’s page here has more information.  You can also get some specific advice on your cute pet’s care and grooming needs from your veterinarian.

What Is The History Of The Yorkshire Terrier?

Fido’s history dates back to the mid-1800s. The breed got its name from Yorkshire, which is in the north of England. Rumor has it that the Yorkie Terrier was first developed by Scottish weavers, who brought several types of terriers to England. Other pups that contributed to the breed include the Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont, and possibly the Maltese. 

These early Yorkies were also plucky little hunters who could chase rodents through small spaces. Fido’s first job was working as pest control in the area’s textile mills and coal mines. However, he soon charmed the locals, and before long made the jump to being a companion and lapdog. The breed soon became quite popular with the fashionable ladies of the time, who often dressed the pampered little pooches up in ribbons.

Do Yorkie Terriers Need A Lot Of Activity?

All dogs need some form of activity. Yorkies are no exception. However, Fido can get a decent workout by just running around on those little legs. A few daily walks, with some fun play sessions added in, will probably do it. 

These bright little dogs also need some mental stimulation. Your cute pet may also enjoy obedience training. Just stick with toys and activities that are appropriate for a small dog. Ask your Derby, KS vet for specific recommendations. 

What Celebrities Own Yorkies?

Yorkies have made it into the hearts of several famous people. Celebrities who have owned these cute pooches include Simon Cowell, Beatie Edney, Ariana Grande, Whitney Houston, Vince Neil, and Amy Tan.

What Are Some Fun Facts About The Yorkshire Terrier?

These little pooches pack a lot of personality into small bodies. They’ve certainly made their mark on the world in their own special and adorable way.

Here are a few fun tidbits about them:

• The Yorkie is sometimes called ‘Tomboy Tom’ because of their spunky demeanors. That isn’t the only nickname Fido earned, though: he is also known as the Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier.
• Fido also came pretty close to being America’s top dog. In 2007, he nearly won the AKC’s annual list of most popular breeds.
• The Yorkie has two official days: January 22nd and August 1st. 

Are There Any Famous Yorkies?

Quite a few of these dogs have earned the status of canine celebrities. Let’s take a look at a few of them:

Smoky: An American soldier stationed in New Guinea was startled to find a Yorkie in a foxhole in the jungle. The pup, Smoky, ended up surviving several air raids and several missions. She became a canine hero by dragging a communication cable through a culvert, and is sometimes credited as being the world’s first therapy dog. 

Cinnamon: The Big Bang Theory’s pampered pooch, Cinnamon is even featured in a themed Lego set from the show!

Mignon: Named after the French word for cute, this adorable pup melted hearts starring on Green Acres, Petticoat Junction, and The Beverly Hillbillies.

Moses: Moses starred alongside Dustin Hoffman, Barbra Streisand, and Ben Stiller in the comedy Meet the Fockers. He might have been upstaged by Mink, the kitty that starred in the sequel, Meet The Parents.

Daisy: Daisy probably will never join the ranks of the world’s most famous dogs, but she did pop up on MTV’s reality show  ‘Til Death Do Us Part, with her humans, Dave Navarro and Carmen Electra.

Boi: This little pooch was a delightful addition to High School Musical 2.

Sylvia: Standing only 2.4 inches tall, this teeny-tiny pup had the distinctive honor of being the smallest dog in recorded history. 

Make An Appointment At Our Derby, KS Animal Hospital

Do you have a Yorkie that is due for an appointment? Please feel free to reach out to us, your Derby, KS pet hospital, for all of your cute canine’s veterinary care needs. We are dedicated to providing great care to pups of all sizes!