The Yorkshire Terrier, (often called simply the Yorkie), is a breed of small dog in the terrier category.[1][2][3] The long-haired terrier is known for its playful demeanor and distinctive blue and tan coat.[4][1][2] Yorkies can be very small, usually weighing not more than 7 pounds (3.18 kg); the standard of this breed does not mention the minimum weight accepted nor does it specify a height

The Yorkshire Terrier breed standard specifies that the dog should have a compact, athletic build suitable for an active lifestyle; and hold itself in an upright, confident manner.[1][2] The Yorkie has a free, jaunty gait, with both head and tail held high[6] For Yorkies, toy stature does not necessarily mean frail or fragile.[6]

Ancestry

As the name implies, the Yorkshire Terrier originated in Yorkshire (and the adjoining Lancashire), a rugged region in northern England.[35] In the mid-nineteenth century, at the peak of England’s industrial revolution, miners and mill workers from Scotland came to Yorkshire in search of work and brought with them several different varieties of small long-coated terriers, generally known as Broken Haired Scotch terriers (not Scotties).[6] The specific breeds that make up the Yorkshire Terrier’s ancestry are not known, since the breeders at that time did not keep records of the bloodlines.[35] Certain breeds, however, are commonly thought to be the main forebears. The likely source of the Yorkie’s small stature, long-haired coat and blue color are the Clydesdale, Paisley, Skye and Waterside terriers, all Scottish terriers transported to England at various times.[6] The English Black and Tan Terrier bloodline probably gave the Yorkie its signature color pattern.[6] These breeds were all working dogs, used to keep vermin under control in the textile mills and coal mines.[35] Many have suggested that the Maltese, an ancient breed (likely originating in Asia), may be in the Yorkshire Terrier’s background as well.[35]

The breed first appeared at an 1861 bench show in England as the Broken-Haired Scotch Terrier, named for the dog’s Scottish terrier ancestors.[36] Early Yorkies were also known simply as Toy Terriers, in both rough and broken haired varieties.[37] Yorkshire Terriers were given their breed name by 1874.[37]

From Wikipedia.com