The Yorkshire Terrier was named for its place of origin in England. When the Industrial Revolution brought Scottish immigrants to England in search of work, they brought with them the now-extinct Old English Toy and Waterside Terriers, which were well-suited to hunting rodents. Pairing those two created some of the breed’s early refinements. They eventually arrived in the United States, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885. They became popular for their showmanship and their affectionate personalities.
The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat has long, fine hair that can easily become matted, so it will require daily brushing. Most owners clip the coat closely for a fresh, lower-maintenance look. Nails should be trimmed twice a month. Because small breeds are known to have dental problems in their tiny mouths, it’s important to brush their teeth daily to prevent both bad breath and gum disease.