There are few things in the world as completely lovable as a little Yorkshire Terrier. But they haven't always been so popular. The tiniest member of the terrier family has only recently become one of the most beloved of small dog breeds.

One reason is their high-spiritedness and their tireless nature. They are cheerful and affectionate, always ready for fun, and they will keep you on the go if you are really listening to their needs. Yorkies are not lap dogs!! They are also not purse dogs, pocket dogs, or shoulder bag dogs. For a Yorkie to be happy, they should be out exploring, going on lengthy walks and hikes. They can run for long periods, and if kept fit, a Yorkie can easily run six to nine miles at a time!

Yorkies are ideal watchdogs. They have inherited the hunting instinct and will fearlessly defend property. Their greatest enjoyment is being near the family at all times, so they are not a dog to leave at home while you go off to your workplace. Besides, with a dog this small, why not bring her everywhere? Yorkies are very curious and want to know what is going on all around them. They will do okay in an apartment but they really appreciate a yard. Yorkies don't shed twice a year like many breeds and their coats can be kept beautiful with a comb and brush on a regular basis.

The Yorkshire Terrier is very adaptable and sets out to win over family members one at a time. They are also rather stubborn and can even be called proud. They are inferior in no way to larger breeds, possessing courage and perseverance in spades.

Like many terrier breeds it is assumed that the Yorkshire originated in the Highlands of Scotland, but the history can only be traced to the middle of the eighteenth century, at least the last time I checked. The look of today's Yorkie was well established by the turn of the century (the last century). By the 1960s they were beginning to be better known. Their cheerful adaptation to the urban lifestyle is one of the reasons they have become extremely popular in this century.

The main things to consider if you are interested in having a Yorkie as a family member, of course, are the usual questions. Do you have enough time for a dog, is your environment suitable, and are you ready to commit to about fifteen years of this relationship with a wonderful, miniscule being?

By the way - if you think having two Yorkies is a good idea, you may be right. Because they are constant curious explorers, and extremely active, you may be relieved of some of the need to romp constantly with them, as they keep each other busy hour after hour.