The Yorkshire Terrier is a lovely lap dog that much prefers to be held on their owner's lap all day. They have a dose of attitude combined with a bright and playful nature and are considered a true and loyal companion. SPECIFICATIONS: AGE : 7 - 18 weeks old HEIGHT : 8 - 9 inches WEIGHT : 7lbs GENDER : Both male & female
DIET/FEEDING
Yorkies should either be fed three meals evenly spread through the day, or should be free-fed dry kibble, to keep the blood sugar levels as consistent as possible. Feed a type of food your dog enjoys eating. Sometimes a finicky eater, the Yorkshire terrier needs a high-quality diet to maintain excellent health and the beauty of its long, silky coat. These tiny dogs need relatively few calories per day, but it's important that the small food portions that provide those calories contain all the needed proteins, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals your Yorkie requires for optimum health and energy.
According to the National Research Council of the Natural Academies, inactive dogs around this size require about 150 calories of food daily, while active dogs need or 200 calories. Before 1 year of age, Yorkie puppies require about 400 calories to promote healthy growth. These calories must be divided into several meals, because the Yorkie's stomach is very small. Divide the daily ration into four meals per day for puppies, three for adult Yorkies. Your Yorkie's food should contain a protein or protein meal, such as chicken, fish, lamb or turkey, as the primary ingredient. Avoid byproducts derived from the non-muscle meat of animals. These proteins can contain up to 14 percent indigestible material. Brown rice and sweet potatoes are good sources of carbohydrates needed to provide energy and fiber in the Yorkie's diet. These carbohydrates also tend to cause less stomach upset than corn or soy, an important factor for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs. Fish oils can help to maintain your Yorkie's shiny, long coat.
Like many toy breeds, Yorkies frequently suffer from dental disease if they do not get regular dental cleanings and brushing. Feed your Yorkie a diet that not only maintains the dog's weight, but also has a crunchy texture that will help keep the teeth clean. The hard texture of dry kibble helps to maintain your Yorkie's dental health by scrubbing away plaque from the surface of the teeth when the dog chews. Dry food also doesn't get stuck in the long fur of your Yorkie's face. Choose a dry dog food with a kibble size made for the small mouths of toy breeds.
We recommend the following dry food:
CARE/TRAINING
This breed's coat requires daily grooming. The hair on top of the head, if grown long, is usually secured with a band or bow. However, if the Yorkshire Terrier is not being used for show, then the coat may be clipped short. Ears and eyes must be cleaned daily. Dental hygiene is also important.The Yorkie's coat is not coarse but is fine and silky to the touch. Unlike other breeds, which have fur, the Yorkshire has hair that is growing constantly. They have no undercoat and do not shed.
With regards to training, this breed is quick to learn. However, they may become willful in which case training of any kind can become difficult. Training must have consistency and firmness. They do not like to be ignored, so lots of praise will bring out the best in their training. Yorkies require minimal exercise and are suited for short walks and ideal for apartment living or homes with small yards. They love to chase shadows, lay in sunbeams, and tug of war. The more attention this breed receives the better.
BEHAVIOR/PERSONALITY
This dog is intelligent, lively, and fearless. They focus entirely on their owner and are extremely affectionate. It has been said that a Yorkshire Terrier requires more human companionship and attention than any other breed.
TEMPERAMENT
The Yorkshire Terrier can be territorial and likes to have their space respected. They are tolerant of older children if treated with care. The Yorkie can also be somewhat independent and assertive. They get along well with other pets.
