Is a Yorkie Right for You? Here's What to Know

Looking for a small dog with a big personality? Yorkshire Terriers (or "Yorkies") are one of the most popular toy breeds in the U.S. and Canada, thanks to their adorable looks and fierce loyalty. But while their silky coat and sparkling eyes may melt your heart, the real question is: Is a Yorkie the right fit for your lifestyle?

At Mawoo Pets, we’ve helped thousands of families find the perfect puppy, and Yorkies are a top choice for many of our customers. Why? Their portability, loving nature, and low-shedding coat make them a favorite among city dwellers, singles, retirees, and even allergy sufferers. But this breed isn’t the perfect match for every household.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to decide whether this spunky little companion is right for you.

Quick Yorkie Fit Checklist

✅ A Yorkshire Terrier might be a great match for you if:

• You live in an apartment or small home

• You’re home often or work remotely

• You have older children (age 8+)

• You’re comfortable with regular grooming

• You want a low-shedding, hypoallergenic breed

⚠️You might want to consider another breed if:

• You have young children or roughhousing pets

• You work long hours away from home

• You prefer a quiet, low-maintenance dog

• You’re not ready to commit to frequent grooming needs

Want more ideas for city-friendly dogs? Check out our guide to the best apartment dogs.

What Is a Yorkie Really Like? Personality & Daily Life

Affectionate: Yorkies are true lap dogs. They bond deeply with their people and are happiest when they’re close. If you want a loyal companion who will follow you from room to room, this is your pup.

Confident & Bold: Don’t let their size fool you—Yorkies are brave and feisty. They won’t hesitate to bark at the mailman or stand their ground with larger dogs.

Vocal: They’re known for being chatty. This can be cute—or frustrating if you have noise-sensitive neighbors. Training can help, but some yappiness is part of the package.

Energetic, but Not Overwhelming: Yorkies enjoy daily play and short walks, but they don’t require hours of exercise. They're perfect for active seniors or busy professionals who want a playful pup without high energy demands.

Emotionally Needy: This breed does best with plenty of human interaction. Left alone too long, they may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors.

Mawoo Insight: Many of our customers choose Yorkies because they’re excellent companions for apartment living, especially for remote workers who want a loyal buddy nearby all day.

Want to learn more quirky Yorkie facts? Check out these fun facts about the Yorkshire Terrier.

Who Yorkies Are Best Suited For

Singles & Couples: Yorkies form strong attachments and love being the center of attention. They’re great travel companions and ideal for those living alone or with a partner.

Seniors & Retirees: Their small size and affectionate temperament make them the ultimate lap dog. Plus, their moderate energy level fits well with a more relaxed lifestyle.

Families with Older Children: As long as kids understand how to handle small dogs gently, Yorkies can be wonderful playmates.

Apartment Dwellers: Yorkies thrive in small spaces—as long as they get their daily play and attention. Browse more apartment-friendly breeds here.

Allergy Sufferers: With hair instead of fur, Yorkies release less dander and may be better for mild allergy sufferers. (Though no dog is completely hypoallergenic!)

Looking for other low-shedding small breeds? Explore more small puppies here.

Who Might Want to Think Twice

Families with Young Kids: Being small and fragile, Yorkies can be easily injured by toddlers who don’t know how to play gentle. They may also snap if scared or startled.

People with Busy, On-the-Go Lifestyles: If you’re gone most of the day, your Yorkie may become lonely or anxious. Consider a more independent breed, or doggy daycare or a pet sitter if you’re often away.

Multi-Pet Households: While some Yorkies do great with other pets—especially if raised with them—they can be territorial and may not always mesh well with other dominant animals.

Those Unwilling to Groom: Yorkies require regular brushing and professional grooming to keep their coat clean and tangle-free. Curious about Yorkie grooming or odor issues? Here’s what to do if your Yorkie smells.

Where to Find a Yorkshire Terrier Puppy

Local Rescue or Shelter: Start by checking local rescues. Yorkies are sometimes surrendered due to lifestyle mismatches, and adopting can change a dog’s life.

Reputable Breeder: Always ask about health guarantees, socialization, and living conditions. A good breeder will welcome your questions!

Mawoo Pets: At Mawoo, we help families across the U.S. and Canada find happy, healthy puppies from responsible, ethical breeders. All breeders in our network are vetted for safety, transparency, and humane treatment.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Browse Yorkie puppies for sale.

🤔 Still Unsure? Compare Yorkies to Other Breeds

Yorkies are wonderful, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. If you’re deciding between breeds, check out these side-by-side comparisons:

• Yorkshire Terrier vs Maltese

• Yorkie vs Shih Tzu
  
  

Final Thoughts: Is a Yorkie Right for You?

Yorkies are loving, loyal, and full of life. If you're home often, enjoy cuddly companionship, and don’t mind some grooming upkeep, this pint-sized pup could be the perfect addition to your home.

Still browsing? Check out our full list of small breed puppies for sale or apartment-friendly dogs to discover more options.

Sources:

• American Kennel Club: Yorkshire Terrier Breed Info

• Vetstreet: Yorkie Dog Breed Profile

• Mayo Clinic: Pet Allergies
  
  

About Mawoo Pets: Mawoo Pets connects loving families with happy, healthy puppies from ethical breeders across North America. Every breeder is screened and every puppy comes with a health guarantee. Because finding your next best friend should be safe, joyful, and transparent.