Energy Level
Very High
Weight
2–3 kg
Height Range
20–23 cm
Life Span
12–16 years
A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, intelligent dog breed with a long, silky coat that is typically blue and tan in color. They are known for their feisty, independent nature and their affectionate personalities, and were originally bred to hunt rats and other vermin in the textile mills of Yorkshire, England.
Breed Characteristics
Temperament
Facts about the Yorkshire Terrier
Small body, big personality — 20–30 min walk plus indoor play covers toy breeds without overexertion.
AKC
Toy breeds need socialization early or they can become reactive to larger dogs. Puppy classes help.
VCA
Dental disease is the #1 toy-breed health issue — tooth-cleaning routine from puppy age is essential.
VCA
Don’t skip training thinking they’re “too small” — toy breeds need boundaries as much as any dog.
The Kennel Club UK
Many toy breeds have ancient companion roots — Pekingese were Chinese imperial dogs for over 2000 years.
AKC
Yorkies need 30 min of walking + indoor play. Despite being toy-sized, they have terrier energy — don't skip walks.
AKC
Watch for patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, and dental disease. Use a harness, not a collar — protects trachea.
VCA
Confident, bold, sometimes bossy. Early socialization prevents "small dog syndrome" — they do NOT know they're small.
The Kennel Club UK
Bred in 1800s Yorkshire to hunt rats in textile mills. Not lap dogs originally — working-class ratters through and through.
AKC history
Exercise by Age
Puppy (under 1 year)
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-11 years)
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (11+ years)
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.
Similar Breeds
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
A Yorkshire Terrier needs about 12,500 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
How big does a Yorkshire Terrier get?
Adult Yorkshire Terriers typically weigh 2–3 kg and stand 20–23 cm at the shoulder.
How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
A Yorkshire Terrier usually lives 12–16 years.
What is a Yorkshire Terrier's temperament?
Yorkshire Terriers are typically Bold, Independent, Confident, Intelligent, Courageous.
Calculate your Yorkshire Terrier's exact daily goal
Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.
Calculate Goal