Common Questions
Guidance for Your Yorkie Journey
The AKC standard for a Yorkshire Terrier is 4 to 7 pounds. The term "Teacup" is simply a marketing buzzword used to describe Yorkies that fall under the 4-pound mark. While we occasionally have very tiny puppies, we breed for health, temperament, and structural soundness first, not just to achieve an artificially small size.
Because Yorkies are a fragile toy breed, our puppies stay with us until they are 10 to 12 weeks of age. This extra time ensures they are eating solid food reliably, have more robust immune systems, and are past the most critical window for hypoglycemia before transitioning to a new environment.
Yorkies are energetic but their tiny legs mean they don't need miles of walking. Short bursts of indoor play and one or two 10-15 minute daily walks are usually plenty to keep them happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated without exhausting them.
Yorkies are highly intelligent and quick learners, but they can have a stubborn, independent terrier streak. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key! Potty training can sometimes take a bit longer for toy breeds due to their tiny bladders, so patience and a strict schedule are required.
Many severe hereditary issues in toy breeds, such as Liver Shunts or severe Luxating Patellas, may take time to manifest. We believe in the quality of our health-screened parents and provide a longer window of protection to give our owners total peace of mind regarding congenital defects.
Yorkies have a single coat of fine, human-like hair rather than traditional dog fur. They are considered hypoallergenic and shed very little. However, this means their coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent painful mats and tangles.
Yorkies are affectionate and bold, but due to their tiny size and fragile bones, they are best suited for families with older, respectful children. We always recommend supervised interactions to ensure the puppy isn't accidentally dropped or stepped on. They generally do wonderfully with other household pets if socialized properly.
Hypoglycemia is a dangerous drop in blood sugar that is a common risk for all toy breeds, especially young puppies. Because their livers are tiny, they can't store enough reserve glucose. Missing a meal, getting too cold, or excessive stress can trigger it. We provide detailed prevention instructions and recommend keeping a glucose supplement on hand.
We strongly recommend a high-quality, toy-breed specific kibble. The smaller kibble size is easier for their tiny jaws to chew and helps scrape plaque off their teeth, as Yorkies are prone to dental disease. We will send you home with a starter supply of the premium diet your puppy is currently eating.
Yorkies are true terriers; they are alert, protective, and make excellent little watchdogs. They will definitely let you know if someone is at the door! While they can be vocal, early training and socialization can help teach them when it is appropriate to use their voice.