Yorkies are the 2nd most popular breed in the United States, second only to the Labrador Retriever….

Am I surprised by this?  Actually I am.  Also very pleased that the  breed is surging in popularity.  And why not, they’re adorable, non-shedding, portable, don’t need exercise, and can be trained to a piddle pad if you don’t want to venture outdoors.  Let’s face it, they don’t come much cuter than this.  Yeah, I know I’m prejudiced, but my two are pretty darned special! Veronica gave me the heads-up on this info earlier today. 

Top dogs of 2008
The Labrador retriever is the most popular purebred dog in the United States for the 18th consecutive year, according to the American Kennel Club.

The Yorkshire terrier came in second place, followed by the German shepherd, the golden retriever, the beagle, the boxer and the dachshund.

 General

With its silky-haired good looks, larger-than-life personality and energetic nature, the Yorkshire Terrier is a perennial favorite among dog lovers worldwide. A member of the Toy group, the Yorkie - as it is affectionately known - is small and frail in size and physicality, yet brave and energetic.. According to the most recent American Kennel Club registration statistics it is the second most popular breed in the United States after the Labrador Retriever.

History

The Yorkshire Terrier was first bred in the north of England county  which gave it its name. During the 19th century the original Yorkies were used as ratcatchers at textile mills. For this reason, they were originally a working man's dog, favorites with the weavers and factory workers. By the end of the 19th century, however, the little dogs had gone up in the world and had become popular companions for members of the European aristocracy. 

Physical Characteristics
Yorkies tend to have long, luxurious dark, steely blue and tan coats. They are, on average, seven inches (17cms) or so tall and weigh between four and seven pounds (1.7kgs to 2.5kgs).

Health & Medical

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to a number of health issues, many of them relating to their skin and coats. They can, for instance, suffer from alopecia and a range of allergic skin reactions. They can also suffer localised hair loss as a result of injections. Other conditions known to afflict Yorkshire Terriers include bronchitis, lymphangiectasia, Portosystemic shunt, cataracts and keratitis sicca. They are also prone go congenital heart problems.
Yorkies are regarded as having a relatively weak digestive system and can suffer vomiting and diarrhea as a result of over-eating or being given unusual foods.
Despite this, the average Yorkie's lifespan is 12.8 years.

Suitability as a Pet
Yorkshire Terriers make excellent household pets. They have great personalities and are regarded as highly adaptable dogs. They also travel well. As small dogs, they require a limited amount of exercise although they do need to interact with humans on a daily basis. Their long coats require regular grooming. 

Popularity as a Pet
The Yorkshire Terrier is the second most popular dog breed in the United States according to the most recent American Kennel Club registration statistics.

Its popularity has shown a marked increase in the past six years during which time it has overtaken breeds such as the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Beagle as a family favorite in the US, According to the Kennel Club registration statistics.