Introduction
The Yorkshire Terrier and the Pekingese are two popular toy dog breeds that are often compared to each other. Both breeds are small and affectionate, but they have different personalities, grooming requirements, and exercise needs. In this article, we will compare the two breeds in detail to help you decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) | Pekingese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ||
| Lifespan | ||
| Temperament | ||
| Coat Type | ||
| Exercise Needs | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Trainability |
Differences in appearance
Yorkshire Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with long, silky coats. They typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coats can be any color, but the most common colors are black, tan, and white.
Pekingese are also small dogs, but they are much stockier than Yorkshire Terriers. They typically weigh between 10 and 14 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coats are long and thick, and they come in a variety of colors, including black, white, fawn, and sable.
Differences in personality
Yorkshire Terriers are known for being feisty, intelligent, and loyal. They are also very playful and affectionate, and they make great companions for people of all ages. Pekingese, on the other hand, are known for being calm, gentle, and affectionate. They are also very loyal and protective of their owners, and they make great lap dogs.
Key differences in personality:
- Yorkshire Terriers are more active and playful than Pekingese
- Yorkshire Terriers are more independent than Pekingese
- Pekingese are more affectionate and cuddly than Yorkshire Terriers
Differences in grooming
Yorkshire Terriers:
- Their coats are long and silky, and they require daily brushing to prevent matting.
- They should be bathed every 4-6 weeks, or more often if they get dirty.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly, and their ears should be cleaned as needed.
Pekingese:
- Their coats are thick and luxurious, and they require regular brushing to prevent matting.
- They should be bathed every 4-6 weeks, or more often if they get dirty.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly, and their ears should be cleaned as needed.
Overall, both Yorkshire Terriers and Pekingese require regular grooming to maintain their coats and keep them healthy.
Differences in exercise needs
Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed of dog that does not require a lot of exercise. They are happy with a few short walks each day, and they can also be entertained with indoor activities such as playing fetch or tug-of-war.
Pekingese are also a small breed of dog, but they are more active than Yorkshire Terriers. They need at least one long walk each day, and they also enjoy playing fetch and other games.
Overall, both Yorkshire Terriers and Pekingese are relatively low-maintenance breeds when it comes to exercise. However, Pekingese may need more exercise than Yorkshire Terriers in order to stay healthy and happy.
Differences in diet
Both Yorkshire Terriers and Pekingese are small dogs, so they do not need a lot of food. However, the type of food they eat will vary depending on their age, activity level, and overall health.
Yorkshire Terriers are typically fed a diet of dry dog food. This food is specifically formulated for small dogs and contains all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Yorkshire Terriers can also be fed wet dog food or homemade food, but these options should be made with care to ensure that they are nutritionally balanced.
Pekingese are also typically fed a diet of dry dog food. However, they may be more sensitive to certain ingredients than Yorkshire Terriers, so it is important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for Pekingese. Pekingese can also be fed wet dog food or homemade food, but these options should be made with care to ensure that they are nutritionally balanced.
It is important to feed your Yorkshire Terrier or Pekingese the right amount of food for their size and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can increase your dog’s risk of developing health problems. Underfeeding can also be harmful, as it can lead to malnutrition.
If you are unsure about how much food to feed your Yorkshire Terrier or Pekingese, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine the right amount of food for your dog based on their individual needs.
Differences in health concerns
Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health problems, such as:
* Dental disease
* Eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma
* Heart disease
* Liver disease
* Hypoglycemia
* Addison’s disease
* Cushing’s disease
* Portosystemic shunt
Pekingese are also generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health problems, such as:
* Brachycephalic syndrome
* Eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma
* Heart disease
* Liver disease
* Hypoglycemia
* Addison’s disease
* Cushing’s disease
* Portosystemic shunt
Differences in cost of ownership
Yorkshire Terriers are generally more expensive than Pekingese, with puppies typically costing between $1,000 and $2,000. However, the cost of owning a Yorkie can vary depending on factors such as the breeder, the location, and the specific dog.
Pekingese are typically less expensive than Yorkies, with puppies typically costing between $500 and $1,000. However, the cost of owning a Pekingese can vary depending on factors such as the breeder, the location, and the specific dog.
In addition to the initial purchase price, both Yorkies and Pekingese require ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, and training. The specific costs will vary depending on the individual dog, but a general estimate is that owning a Yorkie will cost between $1,000 and $2,000 per year, while owning a Pekingese will cost between $800 and $1,500 per year.
Ultimately, the decision of which breed is right for you will depend on your budget and your individual needs. If you are looking for a relatively affordable dog that is easy to care for, a Pekingese may be a good option. However, if you are willing to pay a higher price for a dog that is more active and requires more grooming, a Yorkie may be a better choice.
Where to buy a Yorkshire Terrier or Pekingese
There are a few different places where you can buy a Yorkshire Terrier or Pekingese puppy. Here are a few of your options:
- Pet store: Pet stores often carry a variety of different dog breeds, including Yorkshire Terriers and Pekingese. However, it’s important to do your research before buying a puppy from a pet store, as some stores may not be reputable.
- Breeder: If you’re looking for a specific breed of dog, you may want to consider buying a puppy from a breeder. Breeders can be a great source of information about the breed you’re interested in, and they can also help you find a puppy that’s the right fit for your family.
- Rescue organization: Rescue organizations often have Yorkshire Terriers and Pekingese puppies available for adoption. Adopting a dog from a rescue organization is a great way to give a homeless animal a second chance.
No matter where you decide to buy your puppy, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized dog.
FAQs about Yorkshire Terrier and Pekingese
1. Which breed is more suitable for families with kids?
Both the Yorkshire Terrier and Pekingese can be good family dogs. However, the Yorkie’s energetic and playful nature often makes them more suitable for families with older kids. Pekingese, being calm but also a bit aloof, may not tolerate rough play, making them better suited for families with older children or adults.
2. How often do these breeds need grooming?
Yorkshire Terriers have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming, ideally every day. Pekingese also have a long and dense coat but their grooming needs are slightly less, though still quite frequent. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and maintain their coat’s health.
3. Are they easy to train?
Yorkies are moderately easy to train but can be stubborn at times. Pekingese are known to be somewhat more challenging to train, as they can display an independent streak. Consistent, positive reinforcement techniques work best for both breeds.
4. What are their exercise needs?
Yorkshire Terriers are energetic and require moderate daily exercise. A good walk and playtime can suffice. Pekingese, on the other hand, have lower exercise requirements and are content with shorter walks and indoor play.
5. Which breed is more prone to health issues?
Both breeds have their set of breed-specific health concerns. Yorkies might face issues like hypoglycemia, luxating patella, and dental problems. Pekingese can be prone to breathing problems due to their flat face and eye issues. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can help in early detection and prevention of many health issues.
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.
