Yorkshire Terrier insurance
Is the Yorkshire Terrier the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Yorkshire Terrier
Originally bred as a working-class ratter, this tiny dog has become a beloved pet worldwide, known for its intelligence, charm, and fearless spirit.
Yorkshire Terrier quick facts
- Origin: England
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Height: 18-23cm
- Weight: 2-3.5kg
- Coat colours: Blue and tan, black and tan, blue and gold, black and gold
Where does the Yorkshire Terrier come from?
The Yorkshire Terrier, or ‘Yorkie,’ originated in the 19th century in northern England, where it was bred to catch rats in textile mills and coal mines. Created from a mix of terrier breeds, including the now-extinct Clydesdale Terrier, the Yorkie quickly became a favourite among the Victorians, transitioning from a working dog to a fashionable lap companion.
Today, Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular toy breeds, loved for their lively character and affectionate nature.
Yorkshire Terrier temperament
Bold
Yorkies are bold, intelligent, and full of energy. Despite their small stature, they often have the attitude of a much larger dog and can be surprisingly fearless.
Social
Yorkies also get along with other pets but sometimes forget how small they are, so supervision around larger dogs is a good idea.
Feisty
Yorkshire Terriers are not naturally aggressive but can be feisty. Early training and socialisation help them stay calm and friendly around people and pets.
Loving
Yorkshire Terriers are highly affectionate with their owners and love to be the centre of attention.
Delicate
They’re generally good with children, but their tiny size makes them delicate, so gentle handling is essential.
Playful
While friendly and playful, they can be a little wary of strangers and may bark at unfamiliar sights or sounds.
Are Yorkshire Terriers good family dogs?
Yorkshire Terriers can be lovely family dogs in calm homes. They enjoy cuddles and play but may not suit households with rough, young children. They’re generally good pets for first-time owners too, but require owners that are dedicated to their training because of their stubbornness and potential for barking.
Yorkshire Terriers can also be good companions for older people. They’re known for their loyalty and don't require much space, which makes them a good choice for people with smaller homes.
Yorkshire Terrier grooming
Yorkshire Terriers have a fine, silky coat that resembles human hair. Their long, flowing fur requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. Many owners opt for a shorter ‘puppy cut’ for easier maintenance - a low-maintenance haircut that involves trimming the fur to about 1 or 2 inches all over.
Thinking of getting a Yorkie puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
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You can trust us with your Yorkshire Terrier
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** Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products*. Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2024. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Yorkshire Terrier training
- 1
Use positive reinforcement
Yorkies are intelligent but can have a stubborn streak. They respond well to positive reinforcement, especially when training is kept fun and engaging.
- 2
Be consistent
They’re quick learners but can develop ‘small dog syndrome’ if allowed to be too bossy, where they overcompensate for their size by being aggressive or barking.
- 3
Be patient
Consistency and gentle leadership are key. House training can take time, so patience is needed.
- 4
Build up their stamina
Yorkshire Terriers enjoy walks and can go for up to an hour if fit. Start with shorter walks and build up their stamina
Yorkshire Terrier health issues
Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy, but can suffer from a few common health issues.
Dental disease
Luxating patella (dislocating kneecap)
Tracheal collapse
- where the cartilage rings in the trachea weaken and flatten, often causing a ‘honking’ cough as the airway is obstructed
Regular vet check-ups help catch problems early, while good care and a nutritious diet helps keep them healthy.
What we love most about Yorkshire Terriers
Lively and affectionate
Full of energy but love to cuddle.
Low shedding
Their coat requires care but doesn’t leave hair everywhere.
Perfect for small spaces
Adapt well to apartments.
A Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny dog with a huge personality
Whether prancing proudly on a walk or snuggled in your lap, they bring joy, charm, and companionship to any home.
Yorkshire Terrier insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Yorkshire Terrier's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier FAQs
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