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Yorkies: the Tiny but Tolerant Favorite of Many
By: Stephanie Hetu
Of 33 breeds of ancestors and kin who were a game and hardy lot
of tenacious terriers most often used for ratting (hunting
vermin), today's Yorkies formerly named Yorkshire Terriers are
some of the most fragile of the group.
At a diminutive seven to nine inches high and three to seven
pounds, Yorkies are significantly small, making them no less
effective as watchdogs but more of companion animals than
anything else.
Granted, like their terrier kin, the first Yorkies Paisley and
Clydesdale hybrids brought to the working areas and factories of
Great Britain--were bred, raised, and trained to hunt, but they
were specifically developed for hunting only rats, for helping to
control the rat problem in the middle 1800»s in the industrial
areas of Northern England in Yorkshire.
At that time, before they were crossed with the Maltese (hence
the long-haired coat) and other terrier mixes, the Yorkies as a
breed were heavier, weighing in at fifteen pounds, and
stealthier, not only hunting rats but being used to compete in
ratting competitions.
But once the smaller, more compact breed was developed, the
auburn and black long-haired miniatures became the ideal home
companion playful, passionate, and affectionate. Especially good
for humans who stay at home, Yorkies can fit anywhere in the
country or city dwellings or in the purse or carry-all. At the
same time, though they are affectionate creatures and though they
have even temperaments, they do not do well with children, as
they are too fragile for most youthful roughhousing and can
actually incur hurt and injury if not handled properly.
And while the Yorkies have few needs and make few demands other
than needing to be near you and on you most of the time (needing
very little exercise, for example), they do need daily grooming.
Their long hair mats and tangles easily, so they needs to be
brushed and combed daily. As well, because the silky hair grows
perpetually, like the hair of a human does, Yorkies need to be
trimmed frequently.
But more loveable and loving than needful and needy, Yorkies are
the most popular pups today in England and are gaining the same
respect in the states. With their spirited, playful, and tolerant
ways, they each bring to us a personality that is larger and more
laudable than their tiny size might lead us to believe.
At least, the Yorkie my mother had was: so if when I used to pin
doll barrettes on it when Mom wasn't looking and it would sit for
the duration and the humiliation without griping or running away
is any indication of what this small but tough and accepting
creature will endure, then Yorkies popularity is well deserved.
For more really great info and lot's of fun stuff for
Terrier Dogs & Terrier Dog Lovers.....Please visit:
Happy Terrier Dogs A virtual Paradise for
Terrier Dogs
Reprinted with permission
Copyright © 2005
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