#6: Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Yorkie, became a fashionable pet in the late Victorian era in Yorkshire, England. They were bred from the Manchester, Skye, Maltese, Paisley, and Clydesdale Terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier's first official appearance was at a show in England in 1861. At that time, it was called a "broken-haired Scotch Terrier." It became known as a Yorkshire Terrier in 1870, after the Westmoreland show. Eventually, the Yorkshire Terriers made their first appearance in the United States in the early 1870s and today have become one of the most popular toy breeds in the country.

Yorkshire Terriers are small and cute, and it would seem they would make excellent companions. However, Yorkies are often called the King of Terriers and they have the attitude to prove it. The Yorkshire Terrier is a longhaired toy Terrier and, at birth, they are black and tan in color. The black areas slowly change to a dark steel blue as they age, enhanced by the rich tan marking. From the base of the skull to the end of the tail, their hair hangs evenly and straight down each side of the body. The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the world's smallest dogs, weighing between 3 and 7 pounds, with their height spanning between 7 and 9 inches as an adult.

Most Yorkies live to be between 12 and 14 years of age.

They have a handy pick-me-up size which makes them ideal travel companions. Despite their size, however, they possess the typical terrier temperament and are spirited and very self-assured. They are very affectionate and devoted to their owners and they won't hesitate to sound the alarm if danger is near.

The Yorkie also has a downside to them. There are things to take into consideration before purchasing one. The Yorkshire Terrier is especially prone to tartar and dental plaque formation. These problems can be very painful and, in extreme cases, can lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out. His gorgeous coat must also be groomed at least three times a week. Yorkies will bark and you can control some of this, but you will be unable to eliminate it. As with most tiny toys, the Yorkie is not the best choice for young children, as they prefer a quieter lifestyle. In short, this dog may be tiny, but it is a "big dog in a little dog package".