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Yorkshire Terrier: temperament, health and care
Yorkshire Terrier: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Toy, about 2–3.2 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 13–16 years |
| Exercise | Moderate: short walks and play |
| Grooming | High: silky coat, often clipped short |
Temperament and who it suits
Bold, affectionate and feisty; big personality in a small dog.
Often suits: people wanting a small, lively companion.
Small size means care around children and larger dogs.
Health problems to know about
- Kneecap problems
- Dental disease
- Windpipe collapse
- Liver shunt
- Low blood sugar in puppies
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Yorkshire Terrier
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Yorkshire Terrier live?
A Yorkshire Terrier typically lives 13–16 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
Moderate: short walks and play.
What health problems are common in a Yorkshire Terrier?
Common concerns include kneecap problems, dental disease, windpipe collapse, liver shunt and low blood sugar in puppies. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Yorkshire Terrier need?
High: silky coat, often clipped short.
Who does a Yorkshire Terrier suit?
It often suits people wanting a small, lively companion. Small size means care around children and larger dogs.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.