What is the rarest type of Yorkie
7 Different Types Of Yorkie Breeds
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So youd like to have a pocket dog? A micro dog? A teacup dog? Yorkshire terriers are the perfect breed to choose from if your German Shepherd cant fit in your purse.
Now, youll just need to decide exactly which Yorkie is the breed for you.
There are seven types of Yorkies:
- Original Yorkshire terrier
- Designer Yorkies (mixed breed)
- Biewer Yorkshire terriers
- Parti Yorkies
- Mismarked Yorkies
- Black Yorkies
- Teacup Yorkies
All seven types share the same personality and temperament (generally speaking), and were here to break down what each type is for you. These dogs are all Yorkshire terriers, although designer Yorkies are not purebred animals since theyre mixed with other breeds.
Now, lets take a trip into the world of these tiny little dogs. Prepare to be amazed.
History and Origin of Yorkies
The real deal The original Yorkshire terrier is sassy, affectionate, and fun. Although you wouldnt want a Yorkie to be around other pets like hamsters or bunnies due to their strong prey drive, they can certainly be socialized to accept other dogs in the family.
Their silky hair, if left uncut, grows to the ground, yet they rarely shed. Although no dog is completely hypoallergenic, many allergy sufferer have a Yorkie by their side. If youve never seen a Yorkshire terrier with a hair bow tied up on its head to hold the hair back, youre missing a glorious sight. What a wonderful dog.
They will almost certainly sound the alarm (or bark a lot) when people visit, but thats what makes them good watchdogs. Theyre protective of their territory and people.
More terrier than lapdogs, they can be quite bossy, so proper obedience training in the form of positive reinforcement is needed. They need to be reminded who the boss actually is.
Types of Yorkies
Its easy to think a dog this small couldnt be very smart, but yes, they can be. One reputable, well-known study breaks down the intelligence of dog breeds and where they rank.
Professor of Psychology Stanley Coren wrote the now famous book entitled The Intelligence of Dogs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) collaborated with the professor to test 90 breeds for intelligence and publish the results. One hundred and ninety-nine (199) judges evaluated the purebreds.
The Yorkshire terrier placed at #27 in the category of above-average intelligence. Theyre also highly trainable.
Note: Just because a dog is small doesnt mean he doesnt need to be trained. Many guardians of small dogs believe this, thinking that something so small is easily handled. Au contraire. Begin obedience training and socializing your Yorkie as soon as you get them and continue training throughout their lives.
This will help with incessant barking and other negative behaviors that come with an out-of-control dog. Socialization with children and other animals, ideally at an obedience training class, will help them respond well to strangers and other pets.
1. Original Yorkshire terrier
Group | Toy |
Height | 7-8 |
Weight | 7 lbs. |
Fur color | Single-coated Blue & gold, blue & tan, black & tan, black & gold |
The real deal The original Yorkshire terrier is sassy, affectionate, and fun. Although you wouldnt want a Yorkie to be around other pets like hamsters or bunnies due to their strong prey drive, they can certainly be socialized to accept other dogs in the family.
Their silky hair, if left uncut, grows to the ground, yet they rarely shed. Although no dog is completely hypoallergenic, many allergy sufferer have a Yorkie by their side. If youve never seen a Yorkshire terrier with a hair bow tied up on its head to hold the hair back, youre missing a glorious sight. What a wonderful dog.
They will almost certainly sound the alarm (or bark a lot) when people visit, but thats what makes them good watchdogs. Theyre protective of their territory and people.
More terrier than lapdogs, they can be quite bossy, so proper obedience training in the form of positive reinforcement is needed. They need to be reminded who the boss actually is.
2. Designer Yorkies (Mixed Breed)
Sometimes, people want traits temperament or physical in their Yorkie that arent innate and try to breed for them to get Yorkie mixes. Characteristics like height, weight, lifespan, and health issues will be different for all.
Here are some common mixes:
- Shorkie (Yorkie-Shih Tzu) (So cute!)
- Chorkie (Yorkie-Chihuahua)
- Borkie (Yorkie-Beagle)
- Yorkie-poo (Yorkie-Poodle)
- Morkie (Yorkie-Maltese Mix)
- Snorkie (Yorkie-Schnauzer)
- Dorkie (Yorkie-Dachshund)
- Yorkie-Pom (Yorkie-Pomeranian)
3. Biewer Yorkshire terriers
Group | Toy |
Height | 7-11 |
Weight | 4-8 lbs. |
Fur color | Chocolate, tan, & white; Black, tan, & white; Blue, tan, & white |
This breed stands alone from the other dogs on this list since it has been registered as its own by the AKC. Developed in Germany in the 1980s, it is born from two Yorkshire Terriers with recessive piebald genes. Piebald is a white spotting pattern or random white markings, usually asymmetrical, that appear on the body.
An affectionate, energetic, and intelligent dog, the Biewer terrier makes an excellent family companion. Theyre highly adaptable and can fit right in with those living in the city or country, seniors, singles, or families.
Their beautiful tricolored coat needs regular grooming, and brushing them every other day will keep their long, silky hair healthy. They respond well to obedience training and enjoy mental stimulation, like playing with interactive puzzle toys.
Biewers need a specific diet to replenish their spent energy, so a visit to the vet for their opinion is suggested. A fun activity for them would be to maneuver through a small obstacle/agility course in the backyard. They need mental and physical exercise to flourish.
4. Parti Yorkies
Group | Toy |
Height | 7-8 |
Weight | 4-7 lbs. |
Fur color | Chocolate, tan, and brown; White, black, and tan; Other variations of three colors |
Parti Yorkshire terriers arent just dogs who like to have a good time, they have their own distinction of being tri-colored. In the circles of people with full-bred dogs, there was a time when this variation didnt go over too well. They called it a mistake or a flaw in breeding when, in reality, it is the result of a recessive gene called the parti gene.
In 2000, the AKC stepped in and, after years of genetic testing, recognized the dog as an official variant (purebred) of the Yorkshire terrier. Hooray!
There have been many advocates for the parti dog, but Mrs. Gloria Lipman stands out as one of their greatest. She lobbied, educated, and communicated essential facts about the variant breed. She wanted to stop the skepticism that surrounded them and to have them recognized as they are today.
Mature Parti Yorkies are agile and athletic and need daily exercise to stimulate their minds and bodies. Theyre also, just like other Yorkshires, affectionate and playful and make excellent companions.
5. Mismarked Yorkies
A mismarked Yorkie is a Yorkshire Terrier that does not conform to the breed standard in terms of coat color and markings. Yorkies-gram
By the AKC breed standard, a Yorkie must have a blue body with tan markings on the head, legs, chest, and tail. Theyre genetic variations of the Yorkshire terrier.
Mismarked Yorkies are a Yorkie breed generally not accepted by the AKC and are disqualified from conformation shows since they dont conform to the breed. These dogs can come in a variety of colors and color mixtures.
Some unscrupulous breeders overlook the welfare of the offspring to produce mismarked pups. Be sure to do thorough research to ensure youre getting a reputable breeder. (But we suggest adoption since saving one dog is saving two that particular dog and the one that follows it into the rescue organization.)
6. Black Yorkies
Black Yorkies, a variant and rare type of Yorkshire terrier, can be developed through selective breeding. Theyre not purebred dogs and usually have a parent of another breed.
They do share the same yummy characteristics of Yorkshire terriers as far as temperament and personality.
7. Teacup Yorkies
The Teacup Yorkie (not a breed) is largely bred by shifty breeders who want to sell a tiny dog, so they call it a teacup.
Yorkshire terriers are small enough, though, and breeding the smallest of them with the same is entirely dangerous to the health of the dog. They can and most likely will develop a number of health issues some of which can be fatal.
Keep your money in your pocket and go adopt a small Yorkshire terrier at a breed-specific rescue.
Guide for Choosing the Perfect Yorkie Companion
Before you adopt, make sure youve done the legwork it takes to move forward with a Yorkshire terrier adoption. Heres a short list Do you want:
- A male or a female?
- A show quality Yorkie (conform to the AKCs breed standards) or a pet quality Yorkie?
- A purebred or a mixed-breed Yorkie?
We stand firmly behind our belief that rescuing/adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue is the best way to get a best friend for your family. Its much more humane and lots less expensive. (Generally, $50-$200 vs. thousands for purebred Yorkies)
Here are a couple of Yorkshire terrier rescues
Specifically, for a Biewer Yorkshire terrier rescue, you can visit the Biewer Terrier Club of America. And for any other type of Yorkie, check out Save a Yorkie Rescue. Also, visit Petfinder for a comprehensive database of adoptable Yorkies.
If you must purchase from a breeder, do so intelligently. Get online. Post it on social media and research reputable breeders.
A responsible breeder prioritizes the health and welfare of their dogs, adheres to ethical breeding practices, and ensures proper socialization of the puppies. askyorkie.com
First, to find the best dog breed for you, check out this AKC questionnaire to make sure a Yorkshire terrier is the perfect breed to take home with you.
To read about tips for finding a breeder, visit the AKC website. The AKCs marketplace can also help you decide where to look for Yorkie puppies.
Once you decide on a particular breeder, do your due diligence:
- Visit the breeder to assess the conditions, ask the right questions, and interact with the dogs.
- Be sure to ask if theyre willing to let you take the dog to visit your vet before a final purchase.
- Make sure you receive a contract and any other necessary documentation before you leave.
Breeds Similar to Yorkies
If youre looking for a dog similar to a Yorkshire terrier, there are plenty to choose from:
- Silky terrier
- West Highland white terrier
- Australian terrier
- Lakeland terrier
- Airedale terrier
- Norwich terrier
- Cairn terrier
- Scottish terrier
- Irish terrier
- Skye terrier
FAQs
What Is a Yorkies Coloring?
AKC Standard Colors: Blue & gold, blue & tan, black & tan, black & gold
How Long Do Yorkies Live?
Yorkshire terriers generally live to be 11-15 years old; however, their health and genetics should be factored in. Some Yorkies will live shorter lives, and some will live longer ones.
Are There Different Yorkie Types?
There are 7 types of Yorkies:
- Original Yorkshire terrier
- Designer Yorkies (mixed breed)
- Biewer Yorkshire terriers
- Parti Yorkies
- Mismarked Yorkies
- Black Yorkies
- Teacup Yorkies
What Is the Best Yorkie Mix?
This is definitely a question for your vet, but Yorkie poos are usually highly intelligent, full of personality, and extremely loving.
Which Breeds Create a Yorkie?
Yorkies were all originally developed from Scotch terriers (dogs from that area, not the breed type) and the Skye and Dandie Dinmont.
Final Thoughts
If youre looking for a small dog breed blessed with intelligence, energy, and loads of personality, the Yorkshire terrier just might be the breed for you. They can adapt to just about any family type and are always up for plenty of attention (i.e., kisses and hugs).
Theres tons of information on them out there, so you can find out if this breed will be yours forever. And youll have seven choices to choose from! You lucky dog.
What is a Biewer Terrier? Your Complete Guide to an Adorable Rare Breed
If you have or are wondering about getting a Yorkie, the name Biewer Terrier might have come up once or twice.
Meet the Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a very close relative of the Yorkshire Terrier, and the breed is very commonly asked about on our blog. So, what is a Biewer Terrier? What are they like?
Where Does the Biewer Terrier Come From?
The origins of this dog breed are speculated about often, but there is a commonly adopted story of where Biewer Terriers came into existence. The story of this fun, playful breed of dog originated in Germany years ago.
There, Yorkie breeders Verner and Gertrude Biewer rose to prominence in the 1980s within the Yorkie world. In 1984, they discovered a different breed among their dogs offspring. This breed was smaller, with coloring patterns of white Yorkie, black, and gold. This is different from the standard Yorkie coloring, which is black and tan.
Soon after, this type of dog got its name, the Biewer Terrier. The Biewer Terrier was brought over to America in 2003, 19 years after it was first identified. Over time, it gained official recognition as a purebred dog and got its AKC (American Kennel Club) recognition in 2014.
So, the Biewer Terrier is fairly new but has come a long way in a short time.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: How To Tell How Big A Yorkie Will Get A Yorkie Puppy Growth and Weight Chart
Is A Biewer the Same as a Yorkie?
Not exactly. Mr. and Mrs. Biewer were indeed breeding Yorkies when they discovered the Biewer Terrier, so technically they did stem from the Yorkie breed. However, that doesnt mean that they are exactly the same thing.
While there has been much debate about whether Biewer Terriers are the same thing as a Parti Yorkie, history tells all.
Officially, the Biewer Terrier is its own breed and is recognized by the AKC. But, since its directly derived from Yorkie genes, its a very, very close call.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: Can Dogs Eat Bones? Can Yorkies Eat Bones? Which Dog Bones Ones Are Safe?
A Breed Apart?
We mentioned in the section above that there was lots of debate surrounding the Biewer Terriers legitimacy as an individual breed. But, why are people so passionate about this and how did the breed eventually gain recognition?
In this part, well give you an overview of Biewer Terriers path to AKC recognition and public acknowledgment.
So, it has long been debated whether Biewers are different from Yorkies, including Teacup Yorkies, at all. Before 2019, there was no way for Biewers to be distinguished in terms of pedigree documentation. Until then, that was the standard point of distinctive breed confirmation.
But, that year Biewer Terriers went around the norm to achieve breed recognition, all through a completely unprecedented method.
The Biewer Terrier got its recognizance through genetic testing, evidencing that they were indeed different from Yorkies.
While their category in the AKC remains as Miscellaneous, it is still officially its own.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: Parti Yorkie vs. Standard Yorkie Whats the Difference? And Why a Parti Yorkie?
Fun Facts About the Biewer Terrier
There are lots of cool facts about Biewer Terriers that can be found in their history. While we detailed much of their interesting past and their origins, there are a lot more things to know about Biewers!
These dogs are different from Yorkies, but they will tend to have similar personalities. They love to play, theyre smart, and they love to meet new people.
Something else to note is that they only grow to about 7 11 inches in height. They weigh on average 4 to 8 pounds, much tinier than your average dog! Next on the list for Biewers is entering the official toy category due to their small stature.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: A Male or Female Yorkie Which One Should You Pick? The Girl vs Boy Puppy?
Biewer Terrier Appearance
If youre wondering more about how Biewer Terriers differ from Yorkies, you can look towards their appearances. Most of the time, Biewers will look different to the point where the only tell would be their similar size.
Their coats are mostly white Yorkie and tend to have black and gold markings in their fur. Often, the markings on Biewer Terriers faces will be completely symmetrical.
As fur length goes, this is similar to the Yorkie coat in that if its not trimmed, it might grow all the way down to the floor.
Overall, these dogs are cute, cuddly, and would make adorable additions to any household.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: Crate Training a Yorkie Puppy How to Quickly Crate Train Your Dog
Biewer Terrier Temperament
While there isnt much research to confirm some perceptions of the general Biewer Terrier temperament, there is a general consensus that it differs a bit from the typical Yorkies.
While Yorkies will have that typical spunk and excitement, Biewer Terriers have been said to have a bit more of a calm temperament.
Training Your Biewer Terrier
Because Biewer Terriers are smaller dogs, its very important that you start training early. Biewers will need training early on to ensure that they are potty trained, chew trained, and more.
So, we recommend getting your puppy on a training program or a very structured regimen early on so they can develop well as house pets.
Biewer Terrier Health
Biewer Terriers are naturally healthy in the grand scheme of things. They are well-equipped to fight off germs. With good care, will typically live between 10 and 16 years.
If you look up which breeds are prone to certain congenital conditions, you likely wont see Biewer Terriers specifically listed under those at risk. But, this isnt necessarily because they are immune, its more so because of their rarity altogether.
So, if you are doing research, it might be hard to find specific data on what Biewer Terriers are susceptible to. For now, much of what we have to go by are individual case reports.
There have been reported instances of Biewer Terriers afflicted with necrotizing encephalitis, but this doesnt mean that the breed is at a higher risk overall for suffering from this.
Since purebred Biewer Terriers have such a narrow gene pool if you seek one you should make sure there is a concrete system in place to avoid accidental inbreeding. This could lead to lifelong conditions, affecting the poor dogs life.
If you want to ensure that your Biewer Terrier stays especially healthy and comfortable, make sure to give them regular baths and groom their fur.
With all of these concerns in mind, you could be the owner of an exceptionally healthy Biewer of your own!
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: 7 Things You Need to Know About the Yorkipoo and Teacup Yorkipoo
Do Biewer Terriers Make Good Family Dogs?
Biewer Terriers as family dogs can lead to years of rewarding, endless love, and excitement. They can be great additions to a family.
Before you go for it, and this going for all small dog owners, make sure if there are kids in the house that they know how to (or not to) handle small animals.
Owner Information
Now that you know a bit more about what a Biewer Terrier is and how theyve come about in the world, you might be wondering some things about owning one.
In this section, well cover registration options and keeping track of their records.
So, the first thing you might need to know when you get a Biewer Terrier is that registration is advised. Why do you need to register your Biewer Terrier? Well, its mostly so that you can keep track of the dog and its pedigree. Also, its a way to prove that they are the breed you signed up for.
If you obtain your dog from a breeder straight from Germany, it should already be registered in the IBC. Currently, the IBC is the only recognized dog club in the country, so its only natural that this would be where to look.
If you get your pup from a breeder in the U.S., it should be registered in one of the national clubs, such as the AKC.
You will want these registrations, especially because the breeder, if legitimate, will have proof of the mother and father both being Biewer Terriers.
While its important to have your Biewer Terrier registered for your own personal tracking and breed verification, there are other reasons to do so, too. For one thing, the Biewers are such rare dogs that it can increase the validity of the breed as a whole to have more and more registered.
Overall, make sure your breeder is legitimate with registration audits and keep track of the pedigree copies you get!
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: What Is A Teddy Bear Yorkie? Everything You Need to Know
Buyer Beware
Its unfortunate, but there are many dishonest breeders out there who are just looking to make money. They dont care whether you get a purebred Biewer Terrier or not. Sometimes, they will try to cut corners by breeding a Biewer and a standard Yorkie, or even a Biewer and a Shih Tzu.
Rare breeds like the Biewer are susceptible to attracting this type of breeder due to the scarcity and demand.
So, with this malicious type of breeder, registration and checkups are imperative to ensure you get what you are paying for.
If anyone tries to pass off an unregistered mixed-breed dog as a Biewer and youre skeptical, you should be able to tell by the color of their coat. No registration should be one red flag, but otherwise, you can look for the white Yorkie, black, and gold symmetrical coloring.
Buyers beware of this threat, do ample research before contacting a Biewer breeder!
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: What Does A Yorkie Look Like? The Surprising Things You Didnt Know About the Yorkies Looks
The Standard in Comparison to Yorkshire Terriers
By now, you should definitely know what constitutes a pure Biewer Terrier. But, you might have noticed that there are indeed many similarities to the standard Yorkie. So, well make it a bit more clear how the two breeds differ.
In weight, the average for Biewer Terriers is about the same as the standard Yorkie, only less by a tad. For Biewers, the average weight is 6.83 pounds whereas the standard Yorkie will weigh somewhere around 7 pounds flat.
While the AKC doesnt officially host an average height for the Yorkie breed, its very similar between the standard Yorkies and Biewer Terriers. In general, the toy dogs will fall within 6 to 9 inches.
For Biewer Terriers, coloring is one of the main differences between the rare breed and the standard Yorkie. Biewer Terriers will have a mostly white body with planes of black and gold, and their head will have more coloring. Standard Yorkies mostly come in black and tan, but there are other variations.
Mostly, the Biewer Terriers are similar to standard Yorkies in everything other than color. While we dont know everything about the distinctions yet, we anticipate more research being collected as the breed gains more recognition.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: Purebred or Non-Purebred Yorkies How to Tell if Your Yorkie is Purebred
Rescuing a Biewer Terrier
If you go to your average animal shelter, there is a very low chance that you will happen to come across a Biewer there.
Biewers are a rare breed, so most of the people seeking them are looking to keep them. If you want to rescue one, your best chance would be to look them up online and see if any are looking for a new owner.
Finding a Biewer Terrier Puppy
If you want to find a Biewer Terrier puppy near you, it might be a long haul, or virtually impossible in some countries. Since theyre so rarely bred, youll have to find a breeder that specifically does Biewer Terriers.
While finding the breeder wont be as much of a problem, the real work presents when trying to find a reputable, honest breeder that checks all of your boxes.
Upon finding a breeder, youll want to ask a few things and check some others. First, make sure that the breeder is selling you a Biewer, and not something similar in the Yorkie family. You can see this by checking the official registry and analyzing both parents and the breeder.
Next, check in with the breeder and make sure they do not practice inbreeding or any close-relative breeding. It almost goes without saying that if they do, you should not support their business.
Make sure theyve tested for all congenital conditions and are aware of the risks their pups might face. Then, you can start talking to one about getting you a Biewer puppy!
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: How Big Do Teacup Yorkies Get? The Expected Size of a Full-Grown Teacup Yorkie
Raising A Biewer Terrier Puppy
When youre raising your Biewer Terrier puppy, keep in mind the same things that you would for any toy dog. Theyll be so cute and cuddly but will have to learn a few things.
Your job as an owner is to help them acclimate to their environment, train them to do adult dog things, and simply give them love and all-around care.
Biewer Terrier Products and Accessories
In general, you can use many dog grooming and food products for your Biewer Terrier. However, they definitely make lots of small-dog-specific items and tools for you to use!
For example, you can find kibble mixes that are intended for smaller dogs, as well as smaller brushes and hair products.
Pros and Cons of Getting a Biewer Terrier
Many people would love to have a Biewer Terrier due to their outgoing, lively personality. You might be wondering if there are certain advantages or drawbacks to having one of these pups join your household.
Of course, the pros are that you would have a great, trainable pet that would always be a game for a walk or socializing.
However, as far as cons go the small stature of the dog might not be the best choice depending on a few factors. Before buying a small dog, make sure you, your family, and your house are ready for one.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: What To Do When Your Yorkie Is In Heat, and How Long Are Yorkies Pregnant?
Similar Biewer Terriers and Breeds
Biewer Terriers are a unique, rare breed but theyre not alone.
There are a few breeds that are very similar to the Biewer Terrier other than the standard Yorkie.
The breeds that most closely mirror the personality and/or looks that the Biewer has are the Yorkshire Terrier, of course, as well as the Cairn Terrier and Border Terrier.
Is a Biewer Terrier Right for Me?
If youve gotten this far, you should have a good idea of what the breed is, where it originated, and how to go about getting one. But, of course, youll need to know whether its right for you before you leap.
Consider these points: if you want a unique, rare purebred pup that will bring joy to you and your family, you can count on a Biewer Terrier to fulfill that.
Additionally, if a Biewer is available in your area through a breeder, you will have a much easier time obtaining one. If theyre not available due to their scarcity, there are many other breeds that are very similar!
We hope you liked the article and now know a bit more about this wonderful cousin of the Yorkie.
Heres another Yorkie article youll enjoy: Controlling the Weight of Your Yorkie