If you have a small yard or children around your home, then Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie Poos are the best breeds due to their small sizes and friendliness around children. Since these are distinct breeds, what is the difference between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Yorkie Poo?
Quick Navigation
What Is the Difference Between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Yorkie Poo?
The main differences between Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie Poos are their size and intelligence levels. Yorkshire Terriers are smaller and have a consistent size and weight range compared to Yorkie Poos.
When it comes to intelligence, Yorkie Poos are more intelligent, making them easier to train than Yorkshire Terriers.
Yorkie Poos and Yorkshire Terriers share one of the parents. Both parents of a Yorkshire Terrier are Yorkshire Terriers, while a Yorkie Poo is a crossbreed of a Toy Poodle or a Miniature Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier.
That means Yorkie Poos will share some characteristics and instincts with the Toy Poodle or the Miniature Poodle. As a result, Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie Poos will have the following differences:
Physical Appearance
Since a Yorkshire Terrier is purebred, there are no appearance variations across Yorkshire Terriers. Although Yorkshire Terriers are born with floppy ears, the ears become pointed after around 3-6 months. In most cases, Yorkshire Terriers are low-shedders and have long and silky hypoallergenic coats.
On the other hand, Yorkie Poos are crossbred, and their appearance varies depending on which alleles at each locus is dominant. That means Yorkie Poos don’t have identifiable colors and markings.
In most cases, the ears of Yorkie Poos are floppy, unlike those of Yorkshire Terriers. However, the ears can be pointed if the genetics of the Yorkie Terrier are dominant. Also, Yorkie Poos’ fur is curly like that of the Poodles.
Weight and Size
Yorkshire Terriers are relatively smaller than Yorkie Poos, with a height of 7-9 inches and 2-7 pounds weight. Since Yorkie is purebred, its size and weight range is consistent. On the other hand, Yorkie Poos are relatively larger and heavier than Yorkshire Terriers.
In most cases, a Yorkie Poo will have a height of 7-15 inches and weighs around 5-15 pounds. However, the size may vary across Yorkie Poos depending on the type of Poodle used for breeding.
For instance, the Miniature Poodle is slightly bigger than the Toy Poodle. That means the crossbreed of a Miniature Poodle and Yorkshire Terrier will be bigger than the crossbreed of a Toy Poodle and the Yorkshire Terrier.
Training
The ease of training a dog depends on its intelligence level and willingness to please. Although Yorkshire Terriers are smart, they are curious and confident, making them a bit stubborn. As a result, it is a bit more challenging to train Yorkshire Terriers than Yorkie Poos.
For instance, a Yorkshire Terrier will learn a new command by repeating it about 15 to 25 times.
On the other hand, Yorkie Poos has higher intelligence levels, making them easier to train. For instance, you can potty train your Yorkie Poo in around two months. Here are some essential commands you should train both Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie Poos in.
- Sit: Since all dogs love sitting, starting the training with the “sit” command is advisable, as even the less intelligent Yorkshire Terrier can learn it with ease.
- Stay: Training your dogs the “stay” command helps ensure they remain at home even if they get loose. This command is critical to Yorkshire Terriers due to their curious nature that can make them wander around.
- Come: Since both Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie Poos have hunting instincts that make them run after small prey, the “come” command can help keep your dogs from danger when going for exercises.
Friendliness
It is important to consider the friendliness of your dog, especially if you have frequent visitors or small children around your home. Yorkshire Terriers are brave and not very friendly to strangers, making them great watchdogs. However, they are loyal and friendly to their family.
Keep in mind that Yorkshire Terriers’ loyal and affectionate nature towards their family can cause separation anxiety when left alone.
Unlike Yorkshire Terriers that don’t interact well with other dogs, Yorkie Poos are open to interacting and playing with other dogs. If you’re busy and want a dog you can leave alone or take to doggy daycare, Yorkie Poo might be the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Yorkie Poos Bark Like Yorkshire Terriers?
Yes, Yorkie Poo barks almost like the Yorkies. Both breeds are vocal and bark a lot when they want to play or hear an unfamiliar noise.
Do Yorkshire Terriers Have Longer Life Spans Than Yorkie Poos?
Yes, Yorkshire Terriers have longer life spans than Yorkie poos. Typically, a Yorkshire Terrier has a lifespan of around 13 to 16 years, while a Yorkie Poo has a lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years.
Final Thoughts
Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie poos are distinct dogs in terms of physical appearance, weight, size, and intelligence levels. However, both are relatively small compared to other dog breeds. They are also social and can make great house pets.