Learning about hypoallergenic dog breeds is easy with help from the Dog Pages online information resource.

Maltese Dog Breed Information Guide – All About Maltese Dogs

Known for more than 28 centuries as “the ancient dog of Malta,” the Maltese definitely holds honors as one of the aristocrats of the dog world. Their place in history well documented, it is known that the Maltese has been immortalized in rhyme, as well as art.

It is believed that this unique little breed of dog may have been worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. Century after century, this dainty little dog has been a symbol of outstanding taste, wealth, refinement and cleanliness. Few people meet a Maltese and don’t fall under his spell.

Maltese History

This beautiful little dog can be seen in art objects dating back as far as 3,000 years! The Maltese dog breed’s exact origins are uncertain – they may have obtained their name from the Island of Malta, or from the Italian town of Melita.

Maltese dog fanciers were widespread throughout most of continental Europe, and Maltese dogs were especially popular in Britain during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603), having been brought to Britain at the time of the Roman invasion or by returning Crusaders. The Maltese dog was one of the first of the purebreds to be exhibited at dog shows in North America.

The Maltese dog is believed to be the oldest European Toy breed. Art objects dating back 3,000 years bear likenesses of the dainty little dogs. The Maltese dog was described in writings of 200 BC under the Latin name of Canis Melitaeus, which may refer to the island of Malta or to the Sicilian town of Melita.

From early times, the Maltese dog breed appears to have been known and admired throughout Europe and often had its portrait painted as it lounged on the laps of aristocratic ladies. It was also well known in Britain at the time of Elizabeth I (1558-1603).

Some historians claim the Maltese dog breed was brought by Roman invaders while others theorize returning Crusaders brought the small charmers back as gifts for their ladies.

Maltese in Fall Leaves — Maltese – one of the most popular small breeds of dog

Maltese Appearance

While few realize it, the toy Maltese dog is actually a member of the Spaniel family. Weighing a mere 4-6 pounds as a healthy adult, he is the ideal size for an adorable lap dog and is well-known for his affectionate nature and eager personality.

Covered from head to toe in an abundance of long, white silky hair, the toy Maltese has long held a place in the hearts of celebrities and non-celebrities alike. While he is often jokingly called a dust mop, most find the long coat of the Maltese beautiful to look upon, and their faces being nothing short of angelic.

In addition to his being coveted as an adorable lap dog, the little dog of Malta is commonly said to be one of the hypo-allergenic breeds, ideal for those who cannot tolerate most shedding members of the canine world. The Maltese is considered a non-shedding breed and, due to the likeness of his coat to human hair, the Maltese’s “fur” is always referred to as “hair.”

Maltese Temperament

Most Maltese are outgoing, playful, and friendly, though they must be watched carefully around children, due to the fact that they are very delicate and may be hurt easily. A Maltese has an incredible memory and, following a slight, may become very timid and wary if treated poorly or accidentally harmed.

Maltese Exercise Info

A vigorous canine, the Maltese is always ready for a romp. Its small size makes the Maltese a fine dog for limited accommodations. His exercise needs are minimal.

Maltese Grooming Info

That lovely Maltese coat needs daily brushing to stay tangle-free and frequent bathing to keep it sparkling white. Most people who have pet Maltese either make frequent trips to the groomers or opt for a short puppy cut that makes caring for the Maltese much easier!

Maltese Training Info

The Maltese is a very sweet and happy breed that enjoys learning tricks for treats. They can be a bit tricky to housebreak, however, so it’s essential to be patient and start them on a routine as soon as you bring your Maltese puppy home. Obedience courses are also a good idea, helping to keep him safe as he learns to behave around other dogs.

Maltese Health Info

Whether you call them Pocket Maltese, Teacup Maltese, Tea Cup Maltese, Toy Maltese, Miniature Maltese, or Mini Maltese, buying the smallest Maltese puppy you can find is a sure recipe for a teacup full of heartache! Responsible breeders occasionally will have a puppy that is smaller than its littermates (it’s what we once referred to as the “runt” of the litter).

Any breeder that selectively breeds to create a smaller and smaller puppy is not a breeder with whom you want to do business. The reason for this is that smaller puppies usually have a number of health problems. They can suffer from Hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), knee and hip problems, brain defects, kidney problems, heart problems and more.

What’s more, these itty bitty dogs are as delicate as flowers, and can easily be injured or killed by being accidentally stepped on or kicked, or from something as seemingly innocent as a fall off of the sofa or bed. Don’t buy into this unfortunate trend! Dogs are pets – not fashion accessories or toys.

Be sure to buy your Maltese puppy only from a responsible, reputable Maltese breeder. Avoid any breeder who advertises Pocket, Teacup, Miniature, Toy or Mini Maltese puppies.

Is a Maltese Dog Right For You?

There are several factors to take into consideration, before rushing out to get a pet Maltese. Will he fit in with your family and other pets? Think carefully before you make a hasty (and often a rather expensive) decision.

Do you have the time commitment to make to a small dog? Maltese are very affectionate little dogs and do not do well, if left alone for long periods of time. They enjoy companionship and affection, and can easily become very lonely and prone to barking, having accidents on the carpet, and showing other symptoms of canine separation anxiety.

While short periods of time alone are fine, it isn’t fair to get a Maltese if you have too hectic a time to be able to pay much attention to a small dog. If your life is that busy, save yourself some money and your little dog some heartbreak and buy a fish instead.

What about your other pets? This should always be taken into consideration, as well. The Maltese, while friendly and rambunctious, is still a delicate little animal and can easily be hurt by larger, more aggressive dogs, or large-breed puppies who have yet to learn their own strength and what not to bite. Provided you are bringing him into a safe environment, however, the little Maltese toy can often fend surprisingly well for himself.

How does the Maltese get along with children? In truth, the Maltese is wonderfully affectionate and he loves almost everyone. The only problem is that, being as small and dainty as he is, he can be easily hurt if squeezed to hard or dropped. Because of this reason, many reputable breeders will refuse to sell a Maltese puppy to anyone who has a small child, under 5 years of age.

Maltese puppies are especially huggable and sweet, but it’s very easy for one to be easily hurt. For this reason, hold off on getting your Maltese puppy until you know that your son or daughter is old enough to realize what hurting is, to know better than to hurt, and can actually help care for the new puppy, rather than just feeding it.

The Maltese is an adorable and sweet little member of the canine world and, if you have the time to properly care for him, will make a wonderful addition to your family. As with adopting any pet, be sure to give it time and thought, as well as making sure to get agreement from all members of the household before bringing home a new puppy.

If you’ve done all this and you know you’re bringing a puppy home to friendly and safe surroundings, then a Maltese puppy may just be the one to steal your heart.

More Information about the Maltese Dog Breed

Maltese on Wikipedia

Basenji Dog Breed Information – All About Basenjis

Basenji Dog Breed Information Guide

Is a Basenji the right breed of dog for you? Learn all about the Basenji dog breed, including photos and videos, as well as detailed info on the history, appearance, character, health, care, training and suitability of Basenjis.

Commonly known as the barkless dog, the Basenji is recognized by his sleek dingo-like appearance, catlike personality, and strangely shaped larynx which produces a sound more like a yodel than a dog’s typical bark.

Basenji Calendars

Basenji Facts

The Basenji is a breed of hunting dog. It was bred from stock that originated in central Africa. Most of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world place the breed, in the hound group, specifically in the sighthound type. Wikipedia

Hypoallergenic: Yes, Basenjis are Hypo-Allergenic
Life expectancy: 12 – 16 years
Temperament: Affectionate, Energetic, Intelligent, Curious, Playful, Alert
Height: Male: 41–43 cm, Female: 38–41 cm
Colors: Black, Brindle, Tri-color, Tan, Black & White, Red
Weight: Male: 10–12 kg, Female: 9–11 kg

Basenji History

The Basenji is one of the world’s oldest known breeds of dog; first documented in ancient Egypt, the Basenji was used as a keen sighthound, capable of hunting down antelope and other game. Due to the Basenji’s catlike personality, lack of odor, and his tendency to clean himself like a cat, this unique African dog was commonly gifted to the Egyptian pharaohs.

As the ancient Egyptian civilization died out, however, the Basenji was at risk of disappearing as well. Fortunately however, some of the dogs were able to be saved and the breed was preserved in the heart of Africa. This is why the Basenji is commonly said to have developed in the Congo.

While the first Basenji dogs traveled to Europe as far back as 1895, these dogs did not survive and it wasn’t until 1937 that this unique breed was finally introduced to both the United States and Europe. In 1943, the Basenji was accepted by the American Kennel Club and entered into the Stud Book for registration. They have continued to grow in popularity ever since.

Basenji Ornaments

Basenji Appearance

The Basenji is a primitive breed and has a more wild appearance than that of more commonly seen breeds of dog. In fact, his appearance is most often likened to breeds such as the Australian dingo, the Spitz dogs, or the Shiba Inu. His body is square and compact, lithely muscled and built for speed, as well as sheer power.

The Basenji dog’s coat is short and sleek, his legs long, and his tail is usually kept tightly curled up over his back. Basenji eyes have a distinctive almond shape and are keenly intelligent, slanted beneath a thoughtful wrinkled brow and large pricked ears. In fact, the Basenji’s profile is very similar to the ancient dogs paintings and statues found in the Tombs of Egypt. No wonder this magnificent breed holds themselves so proudly!

Basenji Temperament

The Basenji temperament is said to be much like a cat; often aloof and standoffish, the African dingo is an independent dog who tends to prefer adult only homes or families with older children, where they can be the only pet. Additionally, the Basenji is an extremely clean dog who will tend to bathing his entire body much in the same way that a cat washes himself. Yes indeed, this beautiful African dog is a neat freak!

Basenji Exercise Info

Basenji dogs may be a primitive breed, but the breed has been chosen for a specific purpose throughout the centuries. Originally bred for the purpose of running down game and helping to hunt, the Basenji is a high-energy dog that requires a great deal of exercise in order to stay healthy.

Insatiably curious, excellent climbers, amazing diggers and with a high level of intelligence, the Basenji may seem as if he was bred to be an escape artist and a mischief-maker rather than a hunter! If you have a notion to bring a Basenji into your home, be sure to take into consideration his athletic personality and his high desire to always have something to do. The Basenji is not a dog designed to be a couch potato.

Basenji Grooming Info

Fortunately, the Basenji does not require a high amount of grooming diligence. Brushing his coat once a week with a stiff bristle brush is usually enough to remove any dead hairs or dandruff, leaving him with a healthy, shiny coat.

While it may not always seem that the Basenji needs this weekly brushing, the hands-on time this provides is good for both you and your dog, as well as helping you notice any signs or symptoms, regarding illness or injury, that might have occurred with your dog.

Basenji Training Aids

Basenji Training Info

Obedience training for your Basenji is essential! Notoriously aloof, intelligent and destructive, an untrained Basenji can wreck havoc in the home. Early socialization is important, both with children and other animals. For best results, it’s highly recommended that you start your Basenji puppy in puppy obedience courses.

This will help him to learn at an early age just what it is the you expect of him and, with positive reinforcement, will teach him to look forward to the classes and the benefits of working with his humans.

Basenji Health Info

Like any breed of purebred dog, the Basenji’s subject to a variety of health concerns. When deciding to choose of Basenji puppy, be sure to check with several breeders and don’t be afraid to ask about the various health issues that can affect these beautiful dogs.

Any reputable dog breeder will be well versed in the health concerns that affect their particular breed and should be able to give you more details, as well as showing you the sire and dam of your potential puppy. Some of the health problems that commonly effect that Basenji include but are not limited to:

Canine hip dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Fanconi’s syndrome
Immuno-proliferative systemic intestinal disease (IPSID)
Hypothyroidism
Hemolytic anemia
Liver problems

Is a Basenji Right For You?

While a fascinating breed of dog, the Basenji is not a dog for every household. Known to be very aloof and catlike, they may be ideal for the single person or childless couple. Dog lovers who prefer a quiet, odorless companion are great, but the Basenji may not be the ideal dog in a household with small children, other animals, or in a busy household.

Owning of Basenji requires a great deal of responsibility, dedication and patience, though fans of this breed believe the pros definitely outweigh the cons!

More Information About the Basenji Dog Breed

AKC Basenji Breed Profile

Basenji Supplies and Merchandise

Bichon Frise A Non-shedding Breed Of Dog

Bichon Frise Dogs

If you love Bichon Frise dogs, then you’ve just dug up the right page! Our informative Bichon Frise dog breed information guide will help you learn all about this enchanting white, fluffy small dog breed.

From the breed’s history, appearance, facts, health issues and lifespan – to information on caring for and training your Bichon Frise, our breed information guide will help you decide if a Bichon is the right choice for you and your family.

If you then would like to add a Bichon Frise to your household, our listings for Bichon Frise puppies for sale, adoption listings and Bichon Frise dog breeders profiles will help you find the right puppy or dog to complete your family.

Bichon Frise Dog Breed Information Guide

Originally developed in the Mediterranean, the Bichon Frise is a descendant of the Barbet, a variety of Water Spaniel that was common to that area.

While he was first called the Barbichon, his name would eventually be shortened to Bichon and, originally, this unique little dog was divided up into four different categories: the Bichon Teneriffe, the Bichon Maltais, the Bichon Bolognais, and the Bichon Havanais.

Regardless of what number of names he was known by, he would eventually come to be one of the most popular breeds of small dog in the world. How was it that this little powder puff of a dog came to be so widely-known? Most Bichon fans will tell you that its all about the personality.

Bichon Frise History

The Bichon Frise are generally very happy and cheerful individuals, and they seem to have a great love of traveling. Quite often, sailors would barter with these little white dogs, using them as trade items as they traveled across the seas and from continent to continent.

It is believed that it was the trading practices of the Spanish sailors that first introduced the Bichon Frise to the Canary Islands, but as far back as the early 1300s, Italian sailors claimed to have discovered this unique little island-bred dog and they eagerly reintroduced it back to the Continent.

In no time, they became a favorite of the Italian nobility and, amongst those that frequented the courts, the Bichon Frise was often clipped in a fashionable style, resembling a lion.

In addition to their popularity in Italy, the Bichon also remained a favorite of the Spanish Infantas. The painters of the Spanish school frequently painted the Bichon Frise in many of their works.

During the Renaissance, this adorable little white dog also captivated the French, though it wasnt until the court of Henry III, that the Bichon truly gained a place amongst the French nobility.

Of course, as court fashion came and went, it wasnt long before the powder puff Bichon was set aside for something else that was new and exciting.

The Bichon Frise would enjoy a brief popularity peak while Napoleon III ruled, but he would soon become known as the common dog and was then left to the peasants, where he ran loose in the streets or performed in local fairs and circuses.

Popular amongst the organ grinders from Barbary, this happy-go-lucky white dog enjoyed his place in the spotlight and eagerly learned new tricks that endeared him in the hearts of many. Common dog or not, he was determined to make his mark in the dog world.

In 1933, the Societe Centrale Canine of France adopted an official standard for this fluffy white dog. At this time, they were known as either the Bichon or the Teneriffe, so the president of the International Canine Federation proposed that a single name would be decided, that would identify the traits of this unique little dog and, with that, so he was named the Bichon Frise (Frise making reference to the breeds soft and curly hair).

Bichon Frise Appearance

The Bichon Frise stands between 9 and 12 inches at the shoulder and is well known for his incredibly curly, soft coat.

With their only variety being white, they are quite often referred to as powder puffs, simply because of their fluffy appearance. Coupled with a plumed tail which is always carried happily draped over his back and very dark, inquisitive eyes, the Bichon seems to radiate exuberance and a willing nature.

Very intelligent and usually playful, its little wonder that they are excellent companion animals and a popular house pet.

Bichon Frise Temperament

The Bichon Frise is one of the most engaging, fun and entertaining breeds in existence. This happy, eager to please dog breed makes a wonderful companion for dog lovers of all ages.

Great with children, and a loving lap dog for elderly or disabled owners, the Bichon will charm and delight his owners on a daily basis.

Bichon Frise Exercise Info

Bichons are lively, but don’t need a lot of space or exercise to keep them healthy and happy. For this reason, they are a great choice for apartment life or life with an elderly or disabled dog lover.

Bichon Frise Grooming Info

In contrast to the minimal exercise needs of the Bichon Frise, grooming is entirely another matter. The Bichon boasts a lovely white fluffy single coat that grows long and prospers! Daily brushing and frequent baths are necessary to keep snarls and snags at bay, and a visit to the groomers about 4 times a year is needed, unless the owner is willing to learn the art of using dog clippers.

Bichons have ears that can be prone to yeast infections and mite infestations, but a once-weekly cleansing with an acidifying ear wash will keep these problems from cropping up.

Tooth brushing is an important grooming requirement in the Bichon, which can be prone to dental problems. This is an easy task which should be done on a daily basis.

It’s important to keep your Bichon’s bum area nice and tidy. If the fur around the anus is allowed to grow, it can cause your Bichon a great deal of distress, when fecal matter starts to hang on and go for a ride. (Also known as “poop-hikers” 🙂 Fluffy dogs find this situation highly embarrassing and very frightening, and it’s best to avoid it at all costs by keeping the hair around this area nice and short. You can trim this area yourself with the careful use of a pair of scissors.

Bichon Frise Training Info

Bichon Frise dogs are highly intelligent and learn tricks and other commands very easily. This breed responds best to high praise, delivered often and with gusto.

House training a Bichon can be a bit more trying. This is a breed that is notoriously difficult to housebreak, and has been lovingly referred to by many Bichon Frise owners as a “Pees-On”.

That having been said, Bichons can be housetrained! It takes dedication and consistency from all members of the family, but it can be done.

Many Bichon owners have found housetraining success through the use of the “tether method”. It takes about 48 hours to house-train your Bichon using this method. You simply tether or tie your Bichon to you using a short leash.

Whenever your Bichon makes a move to do anything that may result in peeing or pooping, you take them outside immediately.

Come up with a phrase that you will always use when asking your Bichon to do his business. It can be “Do Your Pee”, or “Lets Do It”, or something similar. Each time you take your Bichon out to pee or poop, repeat that phrase using a happy tone of voice.

If an when your Bichon complies, immediately heap on the praise. Don’t be shy.. Jumping up and down yelling “WooHoo… Good Dog!” can be very effective. Don’t worry about what neighbors or passers-by think – they don’t have to clean up your house!

You can also keep a supply of small treat tidbits in your pocket, and add a treat to the high praise given to your Bichon when she pees where she should. Be careful though – some dogs start to associate the act with the treat, and will want go often in an attempt to acquire more and more treats. This can be highly annoying at 4 am.

Anyway, keep up your tether training regimen for about 48 hours, and you should have a house-trained Bichon.

One thing to note: If your Bichon has had accidents in your home, be sure to completely clean away any residual stains and or smells using a biological enzymatic cleaner. Nothing tempts a Bichon to have an accident more than the scent of a previous incident.

Despite this somewhat daunting issue, the Bichon Frise is still a delightful dog breed. Most owners find that this breed’s personality and charm greatly outweigh the occasional inconvenience of cleaning up a bit of dog pee.

Bichon Frise Health Info

Bichons are a healthy, long lived breed of dog that have relatively few health problems, especially compared to other purebred dog breeds. The breeder from which you choose to purchase your Bichon puppy will be instrumental in the health of your new companion.

As with any popular purebred breed of dog, there are reputable breeders who breed for the health, wellbeing and longevity of their dogs and puppies, and there are other sources of purebred puppies that can be a very bad choice.

Make sure you acquire your Bichon puppy from a responsible breeder who health screens and breeds only the best to the best, to help ensure that your Bichon lives a long, happy and healthy life with you and your family.

Health problems that can occur in the Bichon Frise dog breed are:

Skin Allergies

Dental Problems (Gingivitis and Early Tooth Loss)

Both of these problems can be easily prevented or alleviated with regular grooming and proper care.

Other health conditions that rarely occur in the Bichon Frise are:

*Bladder infections and stones
*Orthopedic (patellar luxation, Legg-Calve Perthes, disk degeneration)
*Eye diseases (cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye)
*Cardiac Problems
*Cancers (no one type predominant)
*Metabolic diseases (Cushings, diabetes, pancreatic)
*Disease of the liver and spleen
*Ear (infections, deafness)

A responsible breeder will be well educated about conditions that may affect the Bichon and will health screen her dogs and follow a carefully selective breeding program. Choose your breeder carefully!

Is a Bichon Frise Right For You?

The Bichon is a wonderful companion animal and is generally happy and friendly. Rarely snappish, they are a favorite amongst the elderly, as well as with those who are allergic to most dogs, due to the fact that they dont shed like many breeds. Bichon also love children and tend to get along, very well, with cats and other dogs as well.

There are three main concerns to keep in mind, if you are thinking about getting a Bichon Frise puppy. The first of these is the amount of time that you have to spend with your puppy;

Bichons are companion animals and they enjoy company. While they can be taught to stay in a crate happily, they dislike being left alone for long periods of time, and they do love to travel.

The second and third concerns have to be the safety issues within your home – do you have larger, more aggressive dogs? If you do, you may want to have them meet on a more neutral territory and make sure that they get along.

The last and one of the most important concerns has to deal with children. While the Bichon Frise is an excellent family dog, and is very good with children, be wary of getting any puppy until your child is over the age of 5 years.

Puppies are very fragile creatures and can easily break bones if they are dropped, kicked, or fallen on. Be sure to protect your baby Bichon, just as you protect your own baby.

For more information on the Bichon Frise, or to examine whether or not a Bichon Frise will do well in your home, contact your veterinarian or local breeders and be sure to ask lots of questions.

If you decide on one of these adorable little dogs, discuss with the breeder, ahead of time, what will be needed for your new puppy. You definitely wont regret having such a warm and happy individual cross paths with you!

More Information about the Bichon Frise Dog Breed

Bichon Frise on Wikipedia

Bichon Frise Supplies and Merchandise

Yorkshire Terriers

All About Yorkshire Terrier Dogs and Puppies

Often called the Yorkie or Yorkie dog, the Yorkshire Terrier has enjoyed the status of a favored companion for roughly 200 years. Considered to be the second most popular breed of dog in the world (the Labrador Retriever being the first), his is a story of rags-to-riches.

To tell the story of the Yorkshire Terrier is to reveal how one little hero scaled the social barriers to become a pampered pet and a star of the silver screen. There is little hope of ignoring this adorable little canine when he turns on the cuteness and demands your attention.

Yorkie Facts:

The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest dog breed of terrier type, and of any dog breed. The breed developed during the 19th century in Yorkshire, England. Ideally its maximum size is 7 pounds. Wikipedia

Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life expectancy: 13 – 16 years
Height: Male: 18 – 23 cm (Adult, At Shoulder)
Origin: England
Temperament: Bold, Intelligent, Independent, Confident, Courageous
Colors: Blue & Tan, Blue & Gold, Black & Tan, Black & Gold

Yorkshire Terrier History

The Yorkshire Terrier owes his existence to a now-extinct breed of dog, known as the Waterside, or Weaver, Terrier. Created from a cross of Scottish Clydesdale and Paisley Terriers, which were then bred with the English Black-and-Tan Terriers, the Waterside was well-known for his long blue-gray coat and petite size of about 10 pounds.

A favored pet of many of the weavers who journeyed from Scotland into England, during the 19th century, he would then cross with the local dogs in the area and eventually produce the small Yorkshire Terrier.

At the time, Yorkies were considered a part of the working class themselves. In a time when a dog earned his keep, the Yorkshire Terrier was commonly employed in the weaving mills as a chaser of vermin. Skilled ratters, their tiny bodies were able to squirm and wiggle their ways into places that larger dogs and even cats couldn’t go, and the Yorkshire Terrier’s feisty temperament made him a ferocious fighter.

The presence of the Yorkshire Terrier in the mills became so common that it was often joked that the Yorkie’s long flowing coat was the finest product to be produced on the looms.

Huddersfield Ben is generally recognized as the founding sire of the Yorkshire Terrier dog breed. Born in Huddersfield, County Yorkshire, Ben lived a short existence from 1865 to 1871. Although an accident claimed his life at a mere 6 years, he was the winner of more than 70 prizes in a variety of dog shows and ratting contests, and he was also known to breed true-to-type, the offspring that he sired consistently weighing under 5 pounds and bearing his unique characteristics.

While the breed was originally known as the Broken-haired Scotch Terrier, the name would be changed to the Yorkshire Terrier, in honor and recognition of how much development of the breed had occurred within this small area.

Yorkshire Terrier Appearance

The Yorkie is a toy variety of dog, weighing in at less than 7 pounds when fully grown. Black and tan as a puppy, the Yorkshire terrier’s body coat eventually becomes a rich, glossy blue and tan shade, giving him the distinctive coloration as he matures. The only recognized coloration of the Yorkshire Terrier is this variety, so beware of any trying to sell you dogs that are parti-colored or any other variety.

The Yorkie’s coat should ideally part down the center, from head to tail, with their hair falling to each side in a straight, silky mantle. Exhibitors of show dogs are allowed to trim their Yorkies’ hair so that it is floor level, though most pet Yorkshire Terriers are often kept with a short coat.

Interesting to note is that a Yorkie dog’s coat is never referred to as “fur” but is, instead, called “hair.” This is due to its similarity to human hair; the Yorkie being one of the few breeds of “hypoallergenic” dogs, who do not shed and are considered to be better than other breeds, for those who are allergic to pet dander.

While Yorkies typically weigh right around 5-7 pounds, you will often find people who advertise teacup Yorkies, miniature Yorkshire Terrier puppies, or tiny tiny Yorkie pups. This is simply a marketing gimmick that is employed by unethical breeders in order to claim higher prices for their dogs.

Yorkshire breed registries do not recognize any kind of sub-standard or petite variety of the Yorkshire Terrier breed and actually advises against purchasing dogs that are advertised as teacup Yorkshire Terriers – such animals are not only extremely frail, but if they are true dwarfs or the result of heavy inbreeding, they are often very unhealthy and overrun with genetic faults and disease.

While tiny teacups may be considered cute, it’s an unsound practice to breed such animals and the sale of mini Yorkies should be discouraged.

Yorkshire Terrier Temperament

Few who have known a Yorkshire Terrier will call them a calm or placid lap dog. Born as working dogs, it’s natural instinct for the Yorkie to tear off after anything that moves – whether that is a bug on the floor, the family cat, or even their shadows, Yorkshire Terriers love to give chase.

In addition to being the cat’s arch-nemesis, they are often considered to be very high-strung and nervous dogs. Perhaps this is due to inbreeding, or maybe it comes from being so tiny, the breed is generally hyper-sensitive to loud noises, fast movements, and very nervous of strangers.

Due to this, they are often known as a very shy or timid dog, excitable, and can be prone to both yapping and nipping. Additionally, they also frequently suffer from Canine Separation Anxiety and can be very destructive if left alone for long periods of time or not properly crate-trained.

Yorkshire Terrier Exercise Info

Yorkie Terrier outdoors As tiny as he is, the Yorkshire Terrier does not require a great deal of exercise. In fact, more often than not, he will wear himself out by simply playing or tearing around the apartment in short bursts of playfulness. This makes him an ideal pet for someone who isn’t looking for a high-energy dog that will require long daily walks and trips to the dog park.

The Yorkshire Terrier is usually content to simply go outside and do his business and then come right back in, that is, provided he’s kept on a leash and can’t go chasing off after that cat over there. Yes, Yorkshire Terriers should always be kept on a leash when outside – not only does their tiny size make them vulnerable, but so does their ego, which can often prompt the Yorkie to challenge dogs (or cars) that are 10 times their size.

Yorkshire Terrier Grooming Info

Anyone that’s ever seen one of these adorable little dogs should realize that it takes a lot of work to look that good. The Yorkshire Terrier is no exception to the rule. Requiring daily brushing and combing, the Yorkie’s long and silky hair needs regular trimming and grooming in order to prevent mats.

Bathing is also important, as well as carefully blowing the coat dry, due to the dog’s frailty and risk of cold. In a nutshell, the Yorkshire Terrier takes a lot of work in order to maintain that long coat and, for this reason, unless you want to make weekly trips to the groomers, most pet Yorkie owners tend to keep their dog’s coats cut to a short and more manageable length.

Yorkshire Terrier Training Info

The Yorkshire Terrier is perhaps one of the most difficult dogs to train. Very excitable and notably stubborn, they require a great deal of patience and repetition in order to housebreak. While some Yorkshire Terriers can be taught to do tricks, don’t be surprised if yours conveniently develops selective hearing and tends to ignore you – these feisty little fellows are highly independent and won’t learn unless they think there’s something in it for them.

Obedience classes are recommended, though this also depends on the dog, as some are too excitable to actually do well in puppy classes with other dogs.

Yorkshire Terrier Health Info

As with all other breeds of dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is susceptible to a variety of different health problems. Due to the extensive line-crossing and inbreeding that commonly occurs in pedigreed dogs, as well as the unethical practices of some breeders, one must take care when selecting a Yorkshire Terrier puppy. Here are some of the conditions that the breed is more susceptible to:

Collapsing Trachea
Cushing’s Disease
Eclampsia
Hemorrhagic gastric enteritis (commonly known as HGE)
Hypoglycemia
Legg-Calve-Perthes (LCP)
Liver shunts
Pancreatitis
Luxation of the patella
Pharyngeal gag reflex (sometimes called reverse sneezing)

Is a Yorkshire Terrier Right For You?

This is a very commonly asked question and yet, it is still not asked enough. Before purchasing a Yorkie puppy, one should first take their lifestyle into careful consideration. The Yorkshire Terrier is a very frail little dog and does not do well in a household with children (both from risk of injury as well as the noise tending to make them very nervous and excitable).

One must also be very careful of the Yorkie with other pets, such as larger dogs that can injure him, accidentally, during play. Yorkies and cats are not always a good idea. Your Yorkie will make your cat’s life a living hell with constant barking and chasing.

Yorkies are often difficult to socialize, as well. They tend to be very nervous and high strung, which commonly makes them yappers or prone to nip.

Left alone for long periods of time, this breed can also be highly destructive and frequently suffers from Canine Separation Anxiety.

Of course, for many, the good outweighs the bad and the Yorkshire Terrier is worth it. Known to be very affectionate towards their owners as well as being considered to be an ideal pet for those who are allergic to pet dander, it all depends on your lifestyle and the dog you choose in the end. Take your time and pick wisely, and you’re sure to find a wonderful pet with lots of love to share.

More Information about the Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed

Yorkshire Terrier on AKC