Yorkshire Terrier
Trait scores
Health risk profile
Conditions below are ranked by documented prevalence and severity in the Yorkshire Terrier. Risk level drives both veterinary costs and insurance pricing.
| Condition | Risk | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Dental disease | high | Yorkies retain baby teeth and build tartar fast; professional cleanings start young. |
| Patellar luxation | high | Slipping kneecaps are a leading orthopedic issue in the breed. |
| Tracheal collapse | moderate | Honking cough worsened by collars; walk on a harness. |
| Portosystemic (liver) shunt | moderate | Congenital vessel bypasses the liver; small, stunted puppies should be screened. |
| Legg-Calve-Perthes disease | moderate | Degeneration of the hip joint in young toy dogs, usually corrected surgically. |
Pet insurance for a Yorkshire Terrier
Monthly accident-and-illness premiums for a healthy adult Yorkshire Terrier, based on current rate data across major insurers. Enrolling early locks in coverage before breed-linked conditions become pre-existing.
Annual cost of ownership
Excluding insurance, budget $1,200–$2,300 per year for food, routine veterinary care, grooming, and supplies for a Yorkshire Terrier. Chronic conditions from the risk table above can add significantly to that range — one reason breed-matched insurance matters.
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier was developed by Yorkshire mill workers to catch rats, and the terrier attitude survived the transition to laps. Yorkies are brave, vocal, and devoted to their person, with a hair-like coat that sheds very little but mats quickly — plan on either a short clip or near-daily brushing. Their tiny size makes them fragile around rough children and large dogs, and their appetite for barking makes training a quiet cue worthwhile. A strong fit for city dwellers wanting portable, long-lived company.
Origin: England (Yorkshire)
Temperament
Yorkshire Terrier FAQ
How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
The typical Yorkshire Terrier lifespan is 11–15 years. Diet, weight management, and screening for the breed's known hereditary conditions have the largest measurable effect on longevity.
How much does pet insurance cost for a Yorkshire Terrier?
Based on current rate data, expect to pay roughly $32–$58 per month for accident-and-illness coverage on a healthy adult Yorkshire Terrier. Premiums rise with age and vary by location and deductible.
Is the Yorkshire Terrier a good apartment dog?
Yes. With an energy level of 3/5 and a small build, the Yorkshire Terrier adapts well to apartment living provided it gets daily walks.
What health problems are Yorkshire Terriers prone to?
The most significant documented risks are Dental disease, Patellar luxation, Tracheal collapse. Ask breeders for the relevant health clearances and budget for insurance early, before any condition becomes pre-existing.