Are you among the people puzzled by the question, “Where did the Yorkshire Terrier breed originate?”. This breed’s history is fascinating, and as many owners are aware, the location of the dog’s history is what gives the species its name. For dog enthusiasts, the Yorkie is a fantastic choice.
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Where Did the Yorkshire Terrier Breed Originate?
During the nineteenth century, Yorkshire Terriers were developed in Yorkshire, England. It is among the tiniest of terrier breeds and also among the most miniature canine breeds overall.
The breed descends from three dogs: an Old Crab male, a Kitty female, and another female whose name is unknown.
Yorkies were bred to hunt rats in Yorkshire mills and mines during the Industrial Revolution because of their small stature. During the nineteenth century, laborers from Scotland flocked to Yorkshire, searching for work in the mills that dotted the landscape, bringing a variety of small terrier breeds.
Beginning of Yorkie’s History in England
Yorkshire Terrier forebears were a combination of many different Terriers and were named after the region of England where this dog breed originated. England was at the peak of the Industrial Revolution in the mid-nineteenth century.
Many Scottish miners and mill workers came to England in search of work. Many people who traveled to England brought little Terrier dogs called Broken Haired Scotch Terriers with them. Breeders did not keep records, hence making it difficult to know the exact breeds that produced the Yorkie.
Nevertheless, based on the breed’s appearance, it’s considered that the ancestral line included various dog breeds. The three Terriers most likely brought into England from Scotland were; Clydesdale, Paisley, and Skye. The Waterside Terrier was bred into the England Terrier.
The Yorkie as a Ratter
Many people know that the Yorkie was once used as a Ratter (a dog sent to kill rats and vermin that hide in small places).
- People once took down the Yorkie into mines and mill facilities to assist employees in controlling the number of rats present. Nevertheless, it accomplished far more.
- The Yorkie was an expert at finding creatures hiding in dens and caves beneath the forest floor. Hunters would carry the Yorkie in their pockets when hunting for foxes, badgers, and tiny to medium-sized wild creatures.
- When wild animals are trapped and confined in their dens, they may turn fierce to protect themselves and their offspring. As a result, the Yorkshire Terrier gained a reputation for having the fortitude and bravery to go after its prey with great success and without hesitation.
They appeared to have discovered their calling in the fields and woods; however, this would not last long. As news of how magnificent this dog was increased, Yorkie’s fame gradually spread out of the forest and into the homes of others whose curiosity was stirred by this silky-haired dog.
Yorkie’s History In North America
The Yorkshire Terrier was initially introduced to North America in 1872, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the first Yorkie in 1885. It was a popular attraction and show-dog in England during the Victorian era, and as Americans adopted Victorian habits, the Yorkie was also accepted.
In the 1940s, the number of miniature breed dogs registered decreased to an all-time low of 18 percent of total registrations, indicating that the breed’s popularity had diminished. Smoky, a famous World Battle II war dog, is credited with reviving interest in the Yorkshire Terrier breed.
About the Breed
A Yorkshire Terrier is a toy size terrier that weighs less than 7 pounds and has a floor-length, silky coat that is steel blue with a deep golden tan as its crowning glory. Don’t be deceived by the Yorkie’s small size.
- The Yorkie is stubborn, fierce, bold, and dominating.
- Yorkies are frequently named the most popular dog breed in several American cities because they pack a lot of big-city attitudes into a tiny and mighty body. They are a favorite among city dwellers all around the world.
- Yorkies live for a long time and are hypoallergenic (their coat resembles human hair rather than animal fur), making excellent watchdogs.
Related Questions
What Age Is a Yorkie Full Grown?
A Yorkie’s growth stops around the age of four; once your dog reaches this age, you can expect them to stop becoming taller. Please bear in mind that while the Yorkie will remain small in stature, they may also gain weight, which will impact the overall size.
Do Yorkies Get Attached to One Person?
Yes, Yorkies get attached to one person; they are tiny spitfires who often form strong bonds with a single person. When given a chance, they are also quite cheerful and social dogs who like making new friends.
Conclusion
The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent breed for a first-time dog owner who is ready to devote to the dog’s daily care and attention. Its fame dates back to the Victorian era and before when it became a fashionable pet.
