Introduction
Yorkies and Chihuahuas are two of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. They are both affectionate, playful, and intelligent dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. However, there are some key differences between the two breeds that you should consider before deciding which one is right for you.
| Aspects | Chihuahua | Yorkie |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ||
| Life Expectancy | ||
| Temperament | ||
| Coat Type | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Exercise Needs | ||
| Training Difficulty | ||
| Good with Children | ||
| Good with Other Dogs | ||
| Health Issues |
Chihuahua vs Yorkie: Size
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog, with an average weight of 2-6 pounds and a height of 6-10 inches.
Yorkies are slightly larger than Chihuahuas, with an average weight of 4-7 pounds and a height of 8-10 inches.
Both breeds are small and portable, making them good options for apartment dwellers or people who live in small homes.
Chihuahua vs Yorkie: Temperament
Both Chihuahuas and Yorkies are known for being feisty and playful, but there are some key differences in their temperaments.
Chihuahuas are typically more independent and reserved than Yorkies. They can be wary of strangers and may not be as affectionate as Yorkies. However, Chihuahuas are also very loyal and devoted to their owners.
Yorkies are more outgoing and friendly than Chihuahuas. They are eager to please and love to be around people. Yorkies are also more playful and energetic than Chihuahuas.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which breed is right for you is to meet both Chihuahuas and Yorkies in person. You can also talk to breeders and veterinarians to learn more about the different temperaments of each breed.
Chihuahua vs Yorkie: Grooming
Both Chihuahuas and Yorkies are relatively low-maintenance breeds when it comes to grooming. However, there are a few key differences between the two breeds that you should be aware of.
Chihuahuas:
- Their short coats are easy to brush and maintain.
- They only need to be bathed every few months, unless they get dirty.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown.
- Their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease.
Yorkies:
- Their long, silky coats require more frequent brushing than Chihuahuas.
- They should be bathed every 2-3 weeks, depending on how active they are.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown.
- Their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease.
Overall, both Chihuahuas and Yorkies are relatively easy to groom, but Yorkies require a little more maintenance than Chihuahuas.
Chihuahua vs Yorkie: Health
Both Chihuahuas and Yorkies are generally healthy breeds, but there are some health conditions that they are more prone to.
Chihuahuas
- Collapsed trachea
- Hydrocephalus
- Luxating patella
- Epilepsy
- Dental problems
Yorkies
- Hypoglycemia
- Patellar luxation
- Masticatory muscle myositis
- Breed-specific allergies
- Dental problems
It is important to be aware of these potential health problems so that you can take steps to prevent or manage them.
If you are considering adopting a Chihuahua or a Yorkie, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the breed’s health history and what you can do to keep your dog healthy.
Chihuahua vs Yorkie: Cost
Both Chihuahuas and Yorkies are relatively affordable dogs to purchase. A well-bred Chihuahua puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500, while a well-bred Yorkie puppy can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000. However, the cost of owning a Chihuahua or Yorkie can vary significantly depending on factors such as where you live, the breeder you choose, and the type of veterinary care your dog needs.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of owning a Chihuahua or Yorkie:
- Breeder: The cost of a Chihuahua or Yorkie puppy will vary depending on the breeder you choose. Reputable breeders will charge more for their puppies because they invest in health testing, socialization, and training.
- Location: The cost of owning a Chihuahua or Yorkie can also vary depending on where you live. In general, dogs are more expensive in urban areas than in rural areas.
- Veterinary care: The cost of veterinary care for a Chihuahua or Yorkie can vary depending on the type of care your dog needs. Routine care, such as vaccinations and checkups, can cost around $100 per year. However, more serious medical conditions, such as surgery or cancer treatment, can cost thousands of dollars.
Overall, the cost of owning a Chihuahua or Yorkie can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars per year. However, by doing your research and choosing a reputable breeder, you can help to keep the cost of ownership down.
Where to Buy a Chihuahua or Yorkie
Chihuahuas & Yorkies are available from a variety of sources, including:
- Breeders
- Pet stores
- Rescue organizations
It is crucial to select a reputable breeder that raises healthy Chihuahuas or Yorkies when purchasing a dog from a breeder. The pups’ parents and the environment in which they are being grown should also be visited.
Rescue organizations are another great option for finding a Chihuahua or Yorkie. Rescue organizations often have a variety of dogs available, including both purebred and mixed-breed dogs. The dogs at rescue organizations are typically well-socialized and make great pets.
Cost
The cost of a Chihuahua or Yorkie will vary depending on the source from which you purchase the dog. The cost of a puppy from a reputable breeder will typically range from $500 to $1,500. The cost of a dog from a pet store will typically be higher, and the cost of a dog from a rescue organization will be lower.
Conclusion
Both the Chihuahua and the Yorkshire Terrier are popular small dog breeds. They are both affectionate, intelligent, and playful. However, there are some key differences between the two breeds that you should consider before making a decision.
Chihuahuas are generally smaller than Yorkshire Terriers, and they have a more delicate build. They are also more vocal than Yorkies, and they may be more prone to separation anxiety.
Yorkshire Terriers are larger than Chihuahuas, and they have a sturdier build. They are also less vocal than Chihuahuas, and they are generally easier to train.
Ultimately, the best breed for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a small, affectionate dog that is easy to train, then a Yorkshire Terrier may be a good option for you. If you are looking for a small, cuddly dog that is a good watchdog, then a Chihuahua may be a good option for you.
Further Reading:
FAQ
Which is smaller, Yorkie or Chihuahua?
Both the Yorkie and the Chihuahua are small dog breeds, but generally, Chihuahuas tend to be slightly smaller in terms of weight and height. However, individual sizes can vary depending on genetics, diet, and overall health.
Are Chihuahuas proper dogs?
Yes, Chihuahuas are indeed proper dogs. They are a recognized breed by major kennel clubs worldwide. While they are tiny in stature, they have all the characteristics of a dog and display a spirited and confident temperament.
Are Yorkies the smartest dogs?
Yorkies are intelligent and quick learners, but whether they are the “smartest” is subjective and varies from one dog to another. They are definitely among the more intelligent small breeds and respond well to training when given proper guidance and positive reinforcement.
Is a Yorkie a friendly dog?
Yes, Yorkies are generally friendly dogs. They are affectionate with their families and can get along well with strangers when socialized properly. However, like all breeds, individual temperaments can vary.
Do Yorkies stay small?
Yes, Yorkshire Terriers are a small dog breed, and they remain small throughout their lives. Adult Yorkies typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds, making them one of the smaller dog breeds.
Is a Chihuahua the smallest dog breed?
Chihuahuas are often recognized as one of the smallest dog breeds in terms of weight and height. They are commonly known for their diminutive size, with some individuals weighing as little as 2 pounds. However, while they are among the tiniest breeds, there are other small breeds, and individual sizes can vary.
As a lifelong dog lover, I fell in love with Yorkies for their spunky personalities, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty.
As a dedicated Yorkie owner, I have spent years learning about the breed and how to provide the best possible care for them. From finding the proper diet to exercise, and so much more! I take every aspect of my Yorkie’s life seriously.
In addition to being a loving dog parent, I’m an avid blogger, sharing my experiences and insights on all things Yorkie-related. From training tips to grooming advice, Yorkieclothing.com is a go-to resource for other Yorkie owners worldwide.
