fellfolio
Companion dog
Shih Tzu
A people-oriented companion with a long coat and daily grooming needs. Small size does not remove the need for activity or coat care.
Companion dog
Yorkshire Terrier
A small terrier with an alert manner and a long coat. Grooming, gentle handling and patient training matter more than its size suggests.
Size: SmallActivity: ModerateGrooming: Daily + skilled grooming
At a glance
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 20 cm
- Weight
- 3.2 kg
- Lifespan
- over 12 years
- Activity
- Moderate
- Grooming
- Daily + skilled grooming
- Training
- Patience & clear guidance
- Owner experience
- First dog with support
Small, not short on opinions
Yorkshire Terriers can be confident and sometimes strong-willed in training. Patient, reward-based practice works better than giving way just because a dog is small.
Everyday life
Short walks alone are not enough: games and fetching help keep them active. Protect the dog from rough handling and allow it to rest after exciting encounters.
When you need to go out
Being alone needs gradual practice. The RSPCA advises no more than four hours at a time; puppies and some adults need much shorter intervals. Arrange company during longer absences.
Day-to-day care
Brush the long coat daily or keep it clipped short. Without regular care it mats quickly. Check teeth and eyes too.
Size and build
PDSA gives an average height of about 20 cm and weight of 3.2 kg. Their bones are delicate, which matters around young children.
Health
PDSA lists kneecap luxation, tracheal collapse, bladder stones, and eye and dental problems. Ask breeders about available health screening.
Could this breed fit your life?
Could work well if …
- You want a small dog to train and play with regularly.
- You can manage daily brushing or a practical short clip.
May be more difficult if …
- Young children tend to pick up dogs or play roughly.
- You expect little training and a dog that settles on its own.
Breed traits describe tendencies. Breeding line, socialisation, care and experience shape the individual. Children and animals always need responsible supervision.
Similar needs, different dogs.
Selected by shared size, activity, grooming and training characteristics.
Companion dog
Bichon Frise
A small, curly-coated companion that is often interested in its people. Modest exercise needs come with a considerably greater grooming commitment.
Companion dog
Chihuahua
Small, alert and active. Chihuahuas still need suitable activity, gentle introductions and protection from rough handling.
