Boston Yorkie

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Boston Yorkie is the result of a cross between two pure breeds, the Boston Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier.

The Yorkshire Terrier was developed in the 19th century, by mill workers in the Yorkshire area who brought with them different Scotch terriers that were interbred and mixed with other small dog breeds. The Yorkie was bred to catch rats around the mills, but not much detail is available on the breed crosses. Some believe there was a Maltese in the mix, seen the long, lustrous coat of the Yorkie.

The Boston Terrier, nicknamed the "American Gentleman", is a polite, neat, gentle dog ideal as a lap dog and good with kids and older people. It has been used in therapy work, and is more disposed towards playing and cuddling rather than the general terrier personality of adventurousness and challenge.

Color

The Boston Yorkie can come in two common coat color combinations: tan and blue, from the Yorkie, and black or brown with markings or patches, from the Boston Terrier. Other colors and patterns are possible, like brindle and particolor.

Coat

The coat can be short and hard, or long, fine and silky in texture. There is no undercoat. Other textures may be possible, but these are not considered standard to either parent breed.

Personality

The Boston Yorkie is a high-spirited, outgoing animal that is also comfortable being petted or lounging about with its owner. It is funny and affectionate, but occasionally independent-minded and can be left in its own company. It is not, however, an "outside" dog and will not thrive living apart from its family. It is an energetic playmate for children, but can get snappish when hurt or handled too roughly. It might not get along too well with other dogs in the house, especially male ones, if it has not been raised with them, and sometimes, not even then.

Care

A floor-length coat will require constant grooming and weekly bathing and blow-drying, to maintain its appearance. However, a shorter coat can do with weekly brushing and a monthly bath. Owners of dogs with long coats often opt to have them clipped in a more manageable style and length.

Training

Puppy training is best done with a crate, and the Boston Yorkie might take a little more time, especially with toilet manners. But patience and consistency is all that's needed for this dog. Socialization is very important, as this is a curious and inquisitive dog. Exposure to different dogs, places, and situations will ensure it is well-mannered and not retiring at all times. It will also barkiness, which can be irritating if the Boston Yorkie is alarmed, startled, or surprised by anything that appears new to it.

Activity

The Boston Yorkie will appreciate a variety of activities, and will excel at most of them. Eager and athletic, it can be taken out for jogs, Frisbee, agility courses, and it will still be alert and sprightly on the way back home. A leash or harness is recommended, as this dog can just suddenly decide to investigate something across the street.