Yorktese

The Yorktese is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Yorktese. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, elegant toy breed known for its distinctive silky coat and confident demeanor. According to breed standards, these compact dogs should not exceed 7 pounds in weight, though pet Yorkies often fall between 4 and 8 pounds. They typically stand 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder, with females sometimes slightly smaller than males. Despite their diminutive size, Yorkshire Terriers possess a well-proportioned body with a level back and moderate bone structure that gives them a refined yet sturdy appearance. The breed's most notable feature is their long, flowing coat, which has a silky, straight texture similar to human hair rather than typical dog fur. This single-layer coat lacks an undercoat, making the breed relatively hypoallergenic and minimal shedding. Puppies are born with black and tan coloring, but as they mature over the first three years of life, the black gradually transforms into a distinctive steel blue or silver shade. Adult Yorkshire Terriers display the iconic blue and gold or blue and tan coloring, with the steel blue covering the body and tail while rich tan adorns the head, chest, and legs. The coat requires significant maintenance to remain healthy and beautiful. Daily brushing prevents tangles and mats when kept long, and many owners opt for professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. The traditional show coat reaches floor length, but many pet owners prefer a shorter puppy cut for easier maintenance. Additional physical characteristics include small, V-shaped ears that stand erect, adding to their alert expression. The eyes are medium-sized, dark, and sparkling with intelligence. The breed standard calls for a docked tail, though this practice varies by region. Despite their toy classification, Yorkshire Terriers carry themselves with the confidence and presence of a much larger dog, earning them the description of having a big dog in a small body personality.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Yorkshire Terriers adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, provided they receive adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. Despite their small size, they have considerable energy and enjoy walks, play sessions, and interactive games. The breed can be snappy with young children who handle them too roughly, making them better suited to homes with older children who understand gentle interaction. Their strong prey drive, inherited from their ratting ancestors, means they may chase small animals. Yorkshire Terriers may develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods and benefit from having companions or engaging activities during their owner's absence. Socialization from puppyhood helps develop a well-rounded temperament and reduces potential behavioral issues.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy and retinal dysplasia may affect vision over time. Patent ductus arteriosus, a congenital heart defect, occurs when a blood vessel fails to close properly after birth. Patellar luxation causes the kneecap to slip out of position, resulting in intermittent lameness. Yorkshire Terriers also experience sensitivity to cold and may require protective clothing in chilly weather. The breed's average lifespan ranges from 11 to 15 years. Regular veterinary care, genetic testing of breeding dogs, and maintaining a healthy weight contribute to longevity and quality of life for these beloved companions.
Learn More About The Yorkshire Terrier

Maltese

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, refined toy breed recognized for its stunning pure white coat and elegant bearing. These compact dogs typically stand 7 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 4 and 8 pounds, with show dogs ideally weighing under 7 pounds. Their body is well-proportioned with a level back, rounded ribs, and a moderately deep chest. The overall silhouette presents a balanced, graceful appearance that has made this breed a favorite companion of royalty and aristocracy throughout history. The breed's most striking feature is their luxurious single-layer coat, which is pure white, silky, and straight. When kept in full show coat, the hair flows to floor length, creating an almost ethereal appearance. A slight ivory or lemon tinge on the ears is permissible according to breed standards, but the coat should otherwise be pristine white. Unlike double-coated breeds, Maltese lack an undercoat, which means they shed minimally and are often considered hypoallergenic. The coat texture resembles silk and requires careful maintenance to prevent matting and maintain its glossy sheen. Facial features include large, dark, round eyes surrounded by darker skin called a halo that accentuates their gentle expression. The black button nose provides striking contrast against the white coat, though it may fade to pink without adequate sun exposure or during a female's heat cycle. Drop ears are set low and covered with long, flowing hair that blends into the coat. The tail is plumed and carried gracefully over the back. Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles, and many owners opt for a shorter puppy cut for easier maintenance. Regular bathing, typically every one to two weeks, along with attention to tear staining around the eyes, keeps the Maltese looking their best. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain coat health and proper trimming.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Maltese generally get along well with other pets when properly socialized, though they may be wary of larger dogs due to their small size. While they adore their families, they can become snappy with young children who handle them roughly, making supervision important during interactions. The breed adapts well to apartment living and has relatively moderate exercise requirements, with short daily walks and indoor play sessions meeting their needs. Separation anxiety is common in this breed due to their strong attachment to their owners. They benefit from gradual training to tolerate alone time and may do better in homes where someone is frequently present. Early socialization helps prevent excessive shyness or timidity around strangers and unfamiliar situations.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Portosystemic shunt, a liver condition where blood bypasses proper filtration, occurs in Maltese at higher rates than many breeds. This congenital defect requires dietary management or surgical correction. Patent ductus arteriosus, a heart defect present at birth, affects some Maltese puppies when a blood vessel fails to close properly. Progressive retinal atrophy may cause gradual vision loss over time. Hypoglycemia poses risks to Maltese puppies and very small adults, requiring attention to regular feeding schedules. The breed's average lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years. Regular veterinary care, genetic testing of breeding stock, and attention to dental health support long, healthy lives for these devoted companions.
Learn More About The Maltese

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Yorktese may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.