Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are among the most beloved dog breeds worldwide, cherished for their spirited personality and adorable appearance. However, many dog enthusiasts are unaware that there are several types of Yorkie breeds, each with unique traits that make them stand out. From the traditional Silky Yorkie to the rare Chocolate and Parti variations, there’s a Yorkie to captivate every dog lover’s heart. Whether you’re seeking a playful companion or a gentle lap dog, the diverse Yorkshire Terrier family offers a perfect match for every lifestyle and preference.
Yorkshire Terriers, recognized by AKC as Yorkies, are one of the most beloved small dog breeds in the world. Their playful personalities, energetic nature, and loyalty make them a favorite among pet owners. While many recognize the classic Yorkie with its striking blue-and-tan coat, the world of Yorkie breeds is far more diverse.
From Teacup Yorkies that fit in the palm of your hand to Parti Yorkies with their colorful coats, there is a Yorkie for every personality and preference. Whether you’re a seasoned Yorkie lover or just beginning to explore the breed, understanding the various types can help you choose the perfect companion.
This article explores seven distinct types of Yorkie dog breeds, providing insights into their unique characteristics, grooming needs, and temperaments. Whether you’re drawn to their luxurious silky coats, playful personality, or affectionate nature, each type of Yorkie has its own special charm. Read on to learn about the different types of Yorkies and find out which one could become your loyal best friend.
7 Types of Yorkie Dog Breeds
1. Parti Yorkies
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The Parti Yorkie is an incredibly unique and striking variation of the traditional Yorkshire Terrier. Unlike the standard Yorkie, which is known for its blue and tan coat, Parti Yorkies boast a tri-colored coat, often featuring white with patches of black, tan, or gold. This eye-catching color pattern is what makes the Parti Yorkie stand out, giving it a more dramatic and attention-grabbing appearance. However, the Parti Yorkie is not a separate breed but rather a color variation within the Yorkshire Terrier breed, officially recognized by some dog breed registries.
Despite their distinct appearance, Parti Yorkies share many of the same beloved traits as their standard counterparts. They are energetic, intelligent, and playful dogs that thrive in active households. Their small size and loyal nature make them excellent companions for both singles and families. Their high energy levels and strong mental stimulation needs mean they thrive in environments where they get plenty of interaction and activity. These dogs are also known to be great watchdogs, thanks to their alert and inquisitive personalities.
Like all Yorkies, Parti Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their gorgeous silky coats. Their hair, which is similar to human hair, can grow long and luxurious if left unchecked, so routine brushing and care are essential. With proper attention, Parti Yorkies are just as charming and lovable as any other Yorkshire Terrier variety, and their stunning coats make them an absolute showstopper.
2. Designer Yorkies (Mixed Breeds)
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Designer Yorkies, often called hybrid or mixed-breed Yorkies, are created by crossing the Yorkshire Terrier with another dog breed. These Yorkie mixes combine the signature small size and playful personality of the Yorkie with the traits of another breed, resulting in dogs with diverse characteristics and appearances. Popular Yorkie mixes include the Morkie (Yorkie + Maltese), Yorkiepoo (Yorkie + Poodle), and Bichon Yorkie (Yorkie + Bichon Frise).
These designer dogs often inherit the best qualities of both parent breeds, making them an appealing choice for those looking for a unique dog with an engaging temperament. For example, a Morkie can inherit the Yorkie’s feisty nature and the Maltese’s affectionate temperament, while a Yorkiepoo may have the Yorkie’s intelligence combined with the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. These mixes can also come in a variety of coat colors, textures, and sizes, making them highly customizable to different preferences.
One thing to keep in mind with designer Yorkies is that while they are often cherished for their adorable looks and personalities, they may not meet the breed standards set by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, they still make wonderful pets, often excelling in households that want a loyal dog with a playful personality. Their small size and affectionate nature make them ideal companions for people of all lifestyles.
3. Black Yorkies
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Black Yorkies are a rare and intriguing variation of the Yorkshire Terrier breed. While most Yorkies are born with a black coat, the classic Yorkshire Terrier color pattern typically changes as they grow, transitioning into the traditional steel-blue and tan markings. However, some Yorkies retain their black coats throughout their lives, which gives them a distinct and elegant appearance. While not a breed on its own, these dogs are simply a color variation of the classic Yorkie.
Despite their rare coloring, Black Yorkies possess the same delightful personality as their traditional counterparts. They are known for their energetic nature, feisty attitude, and loyal temperament. Like other Yorkies, they are great companions who love to engage with their owners, though they may require additional physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep their lively minds active. The black coat adds a sophisticated touch to their already adorable appearance, often earning them the title of “miniature black beauties.”
Owners of Black Yorkies must also be mindful of the grooming needs associated with the breed. Their silky coat requires regular care to maintain its smooth texture, and owners should expect to brush their Yorkie daily to prevent matting. While Black Yorkies may be less common than traditional Yorkies, they offer the same companionship, love, and joy as any other member of the Yorkshire Terrier family.
4. Original Yorkshire Terrier
The original Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the classic Yorkie, is the breed that most people are familiar with. With its signature silky coat of steel blue and tan, this tiny dog has become an iconic figure in the dog world. Originally bred in the 19th century in England to catch rodents in textile mills, the classic Yorkshire Terrier was known for its spunky personality and small size, as mentioned by PetMD. These traits remain true today, with the modern Yorkie still exuding the same energetic, feisty nature that made it a popular choice for early workers.
Weighing between 4 and 7 pounds, the original Yorkshire Terrier is a toy-sized terrier, making it one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. Despite their size, these dogs are full of energy and attitude. They have a strong prey drive, making them alert and quick to respond to any potential threats. Their playful personality means they’re often the center of attention, and their loyalty to their owners makes them one of the most devoted pets you can have.
Because of their small size, the original Yorkshire Terrier is well-suited for apartment living and makes a great companion for singles or families with older children. However, due to their intelligence and strong-willed nature, they benefit from mental stimulation and physical exercise to prevent boredom and potential behavior issues. Their grooming needs are also considerable, as their long, silky coat requires regular brushing to avoid tangles and matting.
5. Biewer Yorkshire Terriers
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The Biewer Yorkshire Terrier is a relatively new variation of the Yorkshire Terrier breed, first developed in Germany during the 1980s. These dogs are characterized by their stunning coat, which features a tri-color pattern of blue, white, and gold. The Biewer Yorkshire Terrier is recognized by some breed clubs, though it is not yet fully acknowledged by major organizations like the AKC. However, their unique appearance and charming personality have made them increasingly popular.
Biewer Yorkies share many traits with the original Yorkshire Terrier, including their energetic nature and affectionate disposition. They are playful, intelligent, and eager to please, making them wonderful companions. Despite their small size, Biewer Yorkies are known for their bold, confident personalities, and they typically get along well with other dogs and pets. Like their relatives, these dogs require regular grooming to maintain their luxurious coats, which can grow long and require consistent care.
Though Biewer Yorkies are a relatively recent addition to the world of Yorkie breeds, they have quickly gained a devoted following due to their distinctive coloring and endearing nature. Their unique combination of elegance and playfulness makes them a perfect fit for families, singles, and anyone seeking a dog that is as charming as it is lovable.
6. Teacup Yorkies
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Teacup Yorkies are the smallest of all Yorkie varieties, often weighing in at under 4 pounds. This ultra-miniature version of the Yorkshire Terrier is often bred for its small size, though it’s important to note that Teacup Yorkies are not recognized as a separate breed by major dog organizations like the AKC. These tiny dogs are adored for their compact stature and affectionate personalities, but they do come with unique care requirements due to their size.
Teacup Yorkies are just as playful, energetic, and loyal as their larger relatives, but they can be more fragile, making them a bit more challenging to care for. They are particularly vulnerable to health issues such as low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, and patellar luxation. Potential owners of Teacup Yorkies should be prepared for the extra care needed to keep these dogs healthy and safe. Despite their delicate nature, Teacup Yorkies can be incredibly loving companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
Their tiny size makes them ideal for apartment living, but their health issues and high-maintenance grooming requirements mean that Teacup Yorkies aren’t suitable for first-time dog owners. However, for those prepared to give them the attention they need, Teacup Yorkies offer endless love and joy, making them one of the most precious types of Yorkie available.
7. Mismarked Yorkies
Mismarked Yorkies are simply Yorkshire Terriers that do not conform to the breed’s standard color and coat pattern. These dogs may have an unusual mix of black, tan, or white markings that do not align with the traditional blue and tan or tri-color patterns. While mismarked Yorkies may not meet the breed standard for show purposes, they are still full-fledged Yorkies and possess the same loyal, energetic personalities as their more conventionally marked relatives.
Many owners of mismarked Yorkies find their unique appearances endearing, and they often become cherished family pets. These dogs are just as intelligent, playful, and affectionate as any other Yorkie, and their irregular coloring adds to their charm. Because they don’t conform to the breed’s typical standards, mismarked Yorkies are often more affordable than standard Yorkies, which can make them an appealing option for people seeking the qualities of a Yorkie without the higher price tag.
Despite their mismatched coats, these Yorkies still require regular grooming and care to keep their silky hair in top condition. They are also full of energy and require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. A mismarked Yorkie may not be show-ring ready, but it can certainly be a loyal companion and a wonderful addition to any household.
Conclusion
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are a diverse and beloved breed, with several different types to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to the classic blue-and-tan coat of the traditional Yorkie, the striking colors of the Parti or Biewer Yorkie, or the tiny size of the Teacup Yorkie, there’s a Yorkie that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Each variation of the breed offers a unique blend of personality, appearance, and care needs, but they all share the same heartwarming qualities of loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or an experienced Yorkie enthusiast, understanding the differences between these Yorkie types can help you make an informed decision about which dog is the best fit for your home. No matter which breed or variation you choose, one thing is certain: a Yorkie will quickly become a loving, loyal companion who fills your life with joy and affection.
In summary, the diverse range of Yorkie dog breeds offers a delightful array of choices for every dog lover. From the classic Yorkshire Terrier to various mixes like the Biewer, Parti, and Teacup Yorkies, each breed presents unique characteristics and charm. Whether you seek a playful companion, a small-sized family dog, or a breed with distinctive markings, there is a Yorkie to suit your lifestyle and preferences. Understanding these differences helps in choosing a breed that aligns well with your living situation and personal preferences, ensuring a joyful and harmonious relationship with your furry friend.