Is a Yorkie the Best Choice for Your Little Ones?
Yorkies have gained popularity, often seen in the company of TV stars and movie actors, nestled in purses and associated with the rich and famous. This has led many parents to consider getting a Yorkie for their kids, as they are relatively affordable and possess an appearance of small innocence. As a former owner of a Yorkie, I can attest that while they are undeniably cute, they can also be quite a handful. Their small size and endearing looks can sometimes belie the fact that they can be challenging to train.
Yorkshire Terrier breed
The Yorkshire Terrier’s origins trace back to 19th-century England, particularly in the industrial region of Yorkshire. During this period, there was a surge in textile mills, and Scottish workers migrated to Yorkshire, bringing with them a breed of dog known as the Clydesdale Terrier. This Scottish breed is believed to be one of the foundational ancestors of the modern Yorkie.
The Clydesdale Terrier, which is now extinct, was bred for its tenacity in catching rats and mice in the textile mills. It was likely mixed with various other small terrier breeds in the Yorkshire region, including the Skye Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and possibly the Maltese. These crossbreeding efforts aimed to create a small-sized terrier with a keen hunting instinct. Over time, breeders selectively refined the Yorkshire Terrier, emphasizing traits such as a luxurious, silky coat, a compact size, and a confident, alert demeanor. The breed’s distinctive blue and tan coat pattern also became a hallmark feature. Today’s Yorkie is a result of these careful breeding efforts. They are a toy-sized breed, typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds, and standing about 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Their small stature, combined with their lively and spirited personality, makes them a favorite choice for families and individuals looking for a compact, affectionate companion.
The Yorkshire Terrier is renowned for its elegant and flowing coat, which is remarkably similar to human hair. This luxurious coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Additionally, their small size and fragile bone structure necessitate gentle handling and supervision, especially around young children. Despite their small size, Yorkies are known for their confidence and feisty nature. They can be spirited and assertive, often displaying a larger-than-life personality. Their intelligence and quick learning ability make them excellent companions for families who are willing to invest time in training and socialization.
Thinking of Yorkie for your kids?
When considering whether a Yorkie is the right fit for your family, it’s crucial to take several important factors into account. Chief among these is the delicate bone structure of the Yorkie breed. Due to their small size, they are more vulnerable to injury, particularly when interacting with young children who may not yet understand the necessity of gentle handling. To mitigate potential harm, continuous supervision is paramount. Additionally, it’s vital to educate children on the proper way to hold and handle a small dog like a Yorkie. When holding a Yorkie, it’s best to support their hindquarters with one hand while gently cradling their chest and front legs with the other. This technique helps distribute their weight evenly, reducing strain on their delicate bones. Avoid putting pressure on their back or neck, as this can lead to discomfort or injury. Furthermore, instruct children to approach the Yorkie calmly and avoid sudden movements. Encourage them to sit on the floor or a low, stable surface to interact with the dog, allowing for a more secure and controlled environment. Yorkies are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They often form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being a part of the household activities. They can be playful and energetic, making them wonderful companions for older children who have the energy to keep up with them.
Territorial tendencies
When contemplating a Yorkie as a companion for your children, it’s vital to be aware that these endearing little dogs can occasionally display territorial tendencies. This means they may be protective of their personal space or belongings. Furthermore, very young children may not yet have the understanding or capability to interact with a dog in a manner that respects their boundaries. To ensure a harmonious coexistence, early socialization and training are key. By exposing your Yorkie to various environments, people, and other pets from a young age, you’re helping them become accustomed to different situations and reducing the likelihood of territorial behavior emerging. It’s also essential to introduce positive reinforcement-based training techniques early on to instill good behavior and establish clear boundaries. Additionally, teaching your children how to interact respectfully with their new furry friend is crucial. Encourage them to approach the dog calmly, and show them the proper way to pet and play with the Yorkie. Remind them to be gentle and avoid sudden movements that could startle or agitate the dog. Creating a supportive and understanding environment for both your Yorkie and your children will set the foundation for a positive and enriching relationship. As with any pet, patience, consistency, and clear communication are key elements in fostering a bond that will bring joy and companionship to your family for years to come. As a former owner of a Yorkie, I can attest to their intelligence and spirited personality. They are quick learners but can also be a bit stubborn, which may pose a challenge during training. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based training methods work best with this breed.
Before bringing a Yorkie into your home, it’s important to consider your family’s lifestyle and the ages of your children. Yorkies thrive in environments where they receive attention, mental stimulation, and regular exercise. They may not be the best fit for families with very young children who may not yet have the ability to handle a small dog with the care it requires. If you’re seeking a breed with similar qualities but potentially easier to handle for families with young children, a Bichon Frise could be a suitable alternative. Bichons are known for their friendly and gentle disposition, and they tend to be more robust in terms of their physicality compared to Yorkies. However, it’s crucial to remember that every dog is an individual, and their behavior can also be influenced by factors such as training, socialization, and their environment.
