Yorkies are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These tiny pups are cute and lively and make great companions. While they have many attractive qualities, there are also some drawbacks to consider before bringing one home. So, this article will discuss the pros and cons of Yorkies to help you decide if this breed is right for you.
Pros and Cons of Yorkies (PROS)
1. Great Companions
Yorkshire Terriers are a great choice for those looking for an affectionate and loyal companion pet. These small yet mighty dogs have a delightful, intelligent, and playful temperament. This makes incredibly entertaining and endearing companions.
Despite their tiny size, Yorkies have plenty of energy and spunk. They love interacting with people in their households, making them ideal family pets who enjoy spending time with their owners.
Yorkies are not aggressive or annoying, thanks to their calm dispositions. They rarely bark unless they feel threatened or try to inform their owners about potential danger. Their devotion to those who own them makes them immensely loyal pets who will do anything to ensure their family’s safety.
2. Affectionate
One of the pros in this post of the pros and cons of Yorkies is that they’re affectionate. These small dogs have big hearts, which can instantly warm even the coldest homes. Yorkies offer unparalleled devotion to those they accept as part of their family and will return the same amounts of love and loyalty.
Also, their deep connections to their owners make them such wonderful companions.
When it comes to children, Yorkies thrive in households when all of them are grown-up because these dogs have a gentle temperament and an enjoyably playful personality. Besides playing and cuddling, teaching obedience commands is another activity that both parties will enjoy; your pup might be little, but they are eager learners who always want to please!
3. Long Lifespan
Another pro among the pros and cons of Yorkies is their long lifespan. With an average lifespan of up to 15 years, the Yorkie is among the longest-living dog breeds in the world. This means that owners of these little puppies can enjoy their company for many years.
However, potential Yorkie owners must consider all aspects of having this dog when making a long-term commitment. Although Yorkshire Terriers are generally well-mannered and highly trainable, they need regular grooming and exercise. Also, due to their small size, they may be prone to injury and therefore need extra care while playing outdoors or running around the house.
4. Great Watchdogs
Yorkies may seem like the perfect small pet due to their friendly and lively demeanor, but there’s much more to them than meets the eye. They make excellent watchdogs by default due to their territorial nature and extreme loyalty. They won’t hesitate to protect you or your property even when faced with someone bigger and more intimidating than them.
You can rest easy knowing that your Yorkie will be listening intently for any unfamiliar noises so they can alert you to approaching danger.
Also, they are surprisingly loud despite their diminutive size, so they’ll let everyone nearby know whenever an intruder approaches your home. As such, if you’re looking for a trusty watchdog, a Yorkie should be at the top of your list! Not only do they act as an extra set of eyes around your home, but their sense of smell is also quite sharp.
Pros and Cons of Yorkies (CONS)
Now that we’ve discussed the pros among the pros and cons of Yorkies, let’s discuss the cons.
1. Hard to Train
Yorkshire Terriers can be difficult to train due to their independent nature. While Yorkies are quite intelligent, their active minds can easily distract them. This can lead to difficulty holding the animal’s attention during training, making it difficult to teach them commands.
Additionally, the breed can be challenging to potty train due to its strong instincts and need for independence. The little dogs often enjoy marking their territory. Thus, they need consistency and patience when learning house-training habits.
The key to successful Yorkie training is positive reinforcement. Because of their small size, Yorkies like being praised and rewarded for good behavior. Treats work best since they motivate the pup while encouraging good behavior at the same time. However, having realistic expectations when dealing with a Yorkshire Terrier is essential, as discipline must be consistent throughout all training sessions.
2. Expensive
Regarding Yorkshire Terriers, there’s no denying they come with a hefty price tag, one significant con among the pros and cons of Yorkies. Thus, potential owners should be prepared for what can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Aside from the initial purchase cost of the puppy, owners will also need to factor in additional expenses.
The fluffiness of their fur has earned them plenty of fans. But it’s important to consider that this means they require more frequent trimming than other dog breeds. Since Yorkies are on the smaller side, they can also be prone to various health issues requiring routine check-ups at your local vet’s center.
While Yorkshire Terriers are undeniably cute additions to any family home, bear in mind their costs before you decide whether this is the right type of pup for you.
3. Health Issues
Yorkies, like many small dog breeds, may be more prone to certain health conditions you should know. Yorkshire Terriers can be at a higher risk of developing luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This can lead to discomfort, limping, and difficulty in walking.
Proper exercise, weight management, and monitoring their movement can help minimize the chances of this condition.
Another health concern for Yorkies is a collapsed trachea. This occurs when the windpipe narrows and obstructs the airflow. And it can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, particularly during exertion or excitement.
Thus, avoid using collars and opt for harnesses to reduce strain on the trachea.
Being a toy breed, Yorkies may also experience hypoglycemia and low blood sugar levels. This can cause weakness, lethargy, trembling, and even seizures. It is crucial to provide them with balanced meals throughout the day and monitor their eating habits to prevent blood sugar drops.
Conclusion
Yorkies are a popular dog breed known for their lovable personalities and adorable appearance. However, like any pet, the pros and cons of Yorkies are a thing! On the positive side, Yorkies are great companions known for their loyalty and affection toward their owners. On the negative side, Yorkies can be demanding and require attention and grooming. Overall, owning a Yorkie can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider both the pros and cons before deciding.