Known as the “Yorkie”, this breed is small in size, but big in personality. One of the smallest breeds of terriers, weighing no more than 15.4 kilograms. There are about 31 recognised terrier breeds, which fall into toy, small and medium size categories. Terrier dogs were originally bred and trained to be hunters in the 18th century. Surprisingly, these dogs and other terrier breeds are still used by some Australian Councils as rodent control, visiting over a thousand homes and businesses every year.

History – during the industrial revolution in England, workers went to Yorkshire to work in coal mines, textile mills and factories. Rats became a big problem and various types of terrier dogs were bred smaller to chase, pursue and corner their prey.

Positive aspects of this breed include:
- They are suitable for living in apartments, needing little to moderate  exercise.
- Smart and receptive to training, outgoing and playful.
- Affectionate and loyal to family members.
- They make good home alarm systems, alerting about anyone approaching.
- Longevity, a lifespan up to 16 years.

Negative aspects about this breed include:
- They can be ‘yappy’, barking at every sound, and prone to separation anxiety.
- Not recommended for households with toddlers or small children because of their small and delicate size.
- Yorkies think they are big and may try to start a fight with bigger dogs, socialising at an early age is recommended.
- This breed tends to retain puppy teeth, especially canines, which can contribute to tooth decay.
- Like many small dogs, they can be troublesome when spoilt, requiring set limits and training.

Yorkie Doodle Dandy is a book about Smokey, a tiny Yorkshire terrier found in New Guinea during WWII, she helped to save the lives of servicemen by transporting a communications cable through a small drainage tunnel. She then went on to be the first known therapy dog, visiting soldiers in a military hospital.

Never buy a puppy online or from a pet shop. Instead look for a reputable breeder who tests dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases and that puppies have sound temperaments.

Pam Brandis,
Dip. Canine Prac.