The background breeding of the Yorkshire Terrier dog, like many breeds is fuzzy. Developed in the western part of Yorkshire, England, it is speculated that the Waterside Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, Paisley Terrier, rough-coated Black and Tan Terrier, Dandie Dinmont and the Skye Terrier all played a part in the creation. Originally, the Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie Terrier as it is affectionately known, was bred to kill rats in Yorkshire coal pits and cotton mills in the mid 19th century. They were also used in rat-killing contests. In those days a Yorkie dog weighed about 15 pounds. Since then, and after blood sports were banned in the mid 1850s, the Yorkshire Terrier dog was gradually downsized, perhaps in part, by covert crossing to the Maltese. In 1861 it was shown at bench shows in England under the breed name, Broken-haired Scotch Terrier. Whether it got its official name in 1886 or 1870 is also uncertain. The wealthy fanciers of the day, did not look favorably upon the breed at first, because of its humble heritage, but gradually they accepted this undeniably beautiful dog. Now, it has become the most popular of all the Toy Breeds in Britain, and is in great demand in Europe. By 1880, the Yorkie Terrier had arrived in America.

A small dog breed, the Yorkie dog is very spirited, keenly alert, definitely showing its terrier heritage. It is oblivious of its size, wherein lies some risk because of its audacious and adventurous spirit, often aggressive towards larger strange dogs or small animals. The Yorkie puppy is intelligent, friendly and willing to please. Its beautiful blue and tan coat, long, glossy and silky in texture is an important trademark. The hair, parted on the face from the base of the skull to the end of the tail, requires daily brushing. Its everyday exercise needs are minimal. Yorkshire Terrier breeders recommended a breed book for tips on raising and caring for a Yorkshire Terrier puppy an adult Yorkie Terrier.