Behavior

This loving, little terrier is very intelligent, courageous and alert. Affectionate, spunky, cheerful and sociable, they like to be close to their master. They are full of energy and need a good amount of exercise in order to be calm. Curious and keen they are an enthusiastic digger. Active, smart and quick. Despite their size, this docile dog makes a good watchdog. This is a sturdy breed that adjusts well to traveling. They are not generally trustworthy with other non-canine pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. Socialize them well including with cats so they do not chase them. Good with children so long as the dog does not have a meek owner who fails to give him the discipline and structure all dogs instinctually need. Training these dogs is very straight- forward because it is very eager to learn. Do not allow this little dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. When a Silky believes they are the boss, their temperament changes, as they try to control everyone and every thing around them. They may become demanding, willful, protective and may begin to bark a lot. They may begin to be untrustworthy with children and sometimes adults, becoming snappish if peeved and may pick fights with other dogs.

This very clean breed is well suited for life as a house dog provided he gets out often for long walks. Regular brushing and combing are required. This is not a dog to leave fenced in a yard. They need to be indoors and definitely do not need to be tied up outside, because they want attention so bad they might get hurt trying to get loose.

Behavior

The ideal Yorkshire Terrier character or "personality" has been described by the Kennel Club as having a "carriage very upright feisty" and "conveying an important air". Though small, the Yorkshire Terrier is active, very protective, curious, and fond of attention. Yorkshire Terriers are easy going dogs that are great with children and older adults. If trained correctly, these dogs are very child friendly, easy going, and likes to be played with.

Yorkshire Terriers are an easy dog breed to train. This results from their own nature to work without human assistance. They are naturally smart and quick to learn with many being food and/or praise motivated. Because they were developed as a working breed, many need a lot of both physical and mental stimulation with both long walks/runs but also indoor games and training to keep their mind busy. They are known for being yappy, but many have reported that a contented Yorkie is a quiet one that will happily curl up on your knee in the evening. But they are all individuals, with some being much more laid back than others, and the breeder should ideally be able to advise on the needs and temperaments of their particular line. Yorkies are easily adaptable to all surroundings, travel well, and make suitable pets for many homes. Due to their small size, they require limited exercise but need daily interaction with people. They thrive on attention and love. Many are more timid around other dogs and prefer to stay close to their humans for comfort.

Yorkshire Terriers do tend to bark a lot. This makes them excellent watchdogs, as they will sound the alarm when anyone gets close. A barking problem can often be resolved with proper training and exercise.

Yorkshire Terriers are ranked 34th in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs.

The Yorkshire Terrier is well suited to indoor living, but this sporting dog requires exercise. Daily brushing and combing is required. This breed should be professionally groomed monthly.