The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately called the Yorkie, is one of the most popular toy breeds in the world. Originally bred in 19th century England to catch rats in textile mills, Yorkies are now cherished as lively, loyal companions. Yorkshire Terriers are small-sized dogs with a fine, silky coat that is straight and glossy. Their trademark coloring is a mix of steel blue and tan, though shades of black and gold are also common. With regular grooming, their long coat can be styled into the classic “show dog” look or kept shorter for easier care. Yorkies are intelligent, bold, and affectionate. Despite their tiny size, they often act like big dogs—alert, curious, and protective. They respond well to training and enjoy playtime, but they can be stubborn and benefit from consistent guidance. Early socialisation is important to help them get along with children, strangers, and other pets. Yorkshire Terriers are best suited for singles, couples, or families with older children. They adapt well to apartment living and require only moderate daily exercise. While generally healthy, they can be prone to dental issues, patellar luxation, and tracheal collapse, so regular vet care is essential. Yorkies usually stand 18–23 cm (7–9 in) tall, weigh between 2–3 kg (4–7 lb) as adults, and have an average lifespan of 12–15 years.