There is no doubt that the Yorkshire Terrier, better known as the Yorkie, is one of the most popular dogs in the world. Although technically classified as a “toy” breed, the Yorkie exhibits many traits of a terrier, hence it is sometimes described as a small dog with a strong personality.
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What character (temperament) does the Yorkshire Terrier have?
Depending on where you look at it, the character of the Yorkshire Terrier can be a blessing or a great challenge. Although it is a small dog, having it as a pet requires a lot of responsibility. Yorkies are loving and tender, but also curious, insistent, demanding, and mischievous.
As we mentioned at the beginning, the Yorkshire Terrier combines the cuteness of a tiny dog with the spirit of the terrier, bold, brave and adventurous. While the breed displays a range of personalities, Yorkies are typically affectionate, intelligent, and confident.
Some are very cute and cheerful, so much so that they just want to follow in their owner’s footsteps; others are mischievous, outgoing, and a bit more independent.
The Yorkie is said to have two distinct personalities: one cute and the other mischievous. Apparently, the male Yorkie exhibits the most cheerful, sweet, and relaxed nature, with a greater inclination to enjoy cuddling.
In contrast, the female Yorkie tends to have a more independent behavior, showing interest in other things if she has already spent time in her owner’s lap.
Socialization
Like all dogs, the Yorkshire Terrier needs early socialization, that is, exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences from when they are young puppies. Proper socialization helps ensure your Yorkie is a friendly, stable, and composed dog.
Regardless of whether there is an inclination towards the sweet or the mischievous temperament, the Yorkshire requires attention and needs to spend time with his family; being alone for many hours is not the best thing for him. However, it is not a good idea to overprotect a Yorkie either, and this is a very important aspect of his personality.
Yorkies can identify their owner’s feelings quickly; If your actions indicate that the world is a dangerous place for them, they may engage in neurotic behavior.
Also, keep in mind that this one doesn’t see itself as a tiny dog. Although it is normal for owners to make some concessions, it is not recommended that the Yorkshire terrier controls you. Setting this precedent can have lifelong repercussions on Yorkie’s behavior.
With good socialization and training, you will be able to appreciate their endless devotion, perseverance, and desire to please you. A Yorkshire terrier will be there for you, but you, too, need to do your part so that he doesn’t develop separation anxiety, destructive habits, or nonstop barking.
The Yorkshire terrier and the children
Thinking of fostering a Yorkshire terrier in a family with children? There is something you should keep in mind…
Very young children can create a catastrophic environment for these dogs. It is not recommended that they play together, as there is a high probability of biting and scratching in case the child steps on it, hurts it, or drops it on the ground. The Yorkie is a better pet for older children, who have already learned to respect and manipulate them.
Note. The interaction between a Yorkshire Terrier and a young child should always be supervised by an adult. These dogs can become snappy and aggressive if they get scared or feel like they’re being teased.
Yorkie interaction with other pets
Do Yorkies get along with other dogs? Can I have a Yorkshire terrier if I already have a cat? What happens if there are many squirrels around my house? These are some of the most frequently asked questions about the character of the Yorkie and its interaction with other animals or other pets.
In this sense, it is important not to lose sight of the historical behavior of Yorkies. It is said that this breed was literally developed to hunt, trap, and kill rodents in harsh, small, or dangerous environments.
That explains why it’s not unusual for a Yorkshire terrier to take on a much larger dog, ignore its owner and run off after a squirrel or rabbit, or even start a fight with a cat.
In general, consider that:
- A Yorkshire terrier will get along with a cat or other dog that it has been raised with from puppyhood. Early, patient and constant socialization will be of great help to avoid aggressiveness between them.
- Yorkies can be very possessive and territorial with their owners, especially if a new pet is introduced to the home.
- Being terriers, these dogs may want to challenge the “intruder”, and if a fight breaks out, their spirit can make them fight to the death. Proceed with great caution when introducing them to a new animal.
- They do not usually remain indifferent to the presence of a squirrel.
The fearless nature of the breed often poses a problem for owners. The typical Yorkie won’t think twice about taking on a dog three times his size.
Recommended:
- Yorkshire Types – How Many Are There and How Can I Tell Them Apart?
- How to Take Good Care of a Yorkshire Terrier? Basic Care Guide
Training
The personality of the Yorkshire terrier often means that house training is not an easy task. Learning to set boundaries is important, as if they are “spoiled” like puppies, it will be nearly impossible to train them later in life.
It is best to start training him and give him instructions from when he is a puppy. Don’t let him get away with it. Correcting bad habits is not something you want to leave for later.
The good news is that most Yorkies respond well to training, especially since they love the attention they get when doing tricks or competing in agility events. Positive praise and food rewards are key to training this breed.
A detail of their character is that they do not tolerate isolation well, which is why training in boxes or cages is not recommended.
Also consider that although Yorkshire terriers are affectionate with their people, that does not mean that they respond in the same way to other people. It is normal for them to suspect or feel that it is an intruder, so it is quite common for them to start barking. This can be a problem if you have neighbors; make sure you teach them when to bark and when not to bark.
Despite being good pets for apartment living, it is recommended that Yorkshire terriers get some exercise every day, perhaps a good play session in the living room or a walk around the block.
You may also like:
- How is the Schnauzer’s Temperament? Character and Personality
- What is the Poodle Temperament? Character and Behavior
8 interesting traits and facts about Yorkies
- Although the Yorkshire Terrier is a toy breed, they will not settle for a boring life. He loves having toys at his disposal to have fun on his own or with the company.
- The Yorkie is intelligent and independent, making him an entertaining and notoriously stubborn dog.
- Many Yorkies want to please their owner until something more interesting catches their eye. If you’re looking for a totally lazy, lazy dog, you may want to opt for another breed.
- Yorkshire Terriers tend to be very vocal, protective, and loyal. Despite their small size, they make excellent watchdogs.
- This dog does not like the cold, in fact, it is prone to shivering, especially if it is exposed to moisture.
- Being a pet with a strong temperament and tiny size, it is not recommended for homes with very young children.
- He has a very good memory; It is the ideal pet to teach tricks, commands, and routines.
The Yorkie is a sensitive dog, capable of equally adoring all members of his family.
