Yorkshire Terriers — affectionately known as Yorkies — are one of the most popular toy breeds in Canada. Weighing just 4 to 7 pounds, these tiny terriers are bold, confident, and surprisingly feisty for their size. Originally bred in 19th-century England to catch rats in textile mills, Yorkies have evolved into glamorous companion dogs prized for their silky, hypoallergenic coats and devoted personalities. They bond deeply with their owners and make excellent companions for singles, seniors, and apartment dwellers.
Yorkies appear in Calgary rescues for a variety of reasons — sometimes because their owners underestimated the grooming commitment (their fine, silky coat requires daily brushing or regular professional grooming), and sometimes because their bold terrier temperament clashes with households that have young children or large dogs. Yorkies can also develop separation anxiety and excessive barking if left alone too long. However, for the right owner, a Yorkie is a loyal, entertaining, and portable companion that thrives on attention and affection.
All Yorkshire Terriers listed below are from 13+ Calgary-area rescues and updated every 2 hours. Yorkies are one of the fastest-adopted small breeds, so apply immediately if you find a good match.
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Yorkshire Terrier Adoption FAQ
Are Yorkies good apartment dogs?
Yorkshire Terriers are excellent apartment dogs due to their tiny size and moderate exercise needs. They can get sufficient exercise from indoor play and short daily walks. However, Yorkies can be persistent barkers — a trait from their terrier heritage — which may be an issue in apartments with thin walls. Early training to manage barking is essential. Most Calgary condos allow Yorkies under small-dog weight exemptions.
Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?
Yorkies are considered one of the most hypoallergenic dog breeds. They have hair rather than fur, which grows continuously like human hair and sheds very little. This makes them a popular choice for people with mild dog allergies. However, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic — spend time with a Yorkie before adopting if allergies are a serious concern. Their coat requires daily brushing or regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting.
How do Yorkies handle Calgary winters?
Yorkies are very sensitive to cold due to their tiny size and single-layer coat. They need a warm dog coat and booties for any Calgary winter walk, and outdoor time should be kept short — 10 to 15 minutes in sub-zero temperatures. Many Yorkie owners use indoor pee pads during extreme cold snaps. Paw wax helps protect against ice and road salt. Despite their cold sensitivity, Yorkies adapt well to indoor Calgary living with proper winter gear.