The Yorkshire Terrier grows silk, not fur — a fine, straight, human-hair-like coat that in show dogs reaches the floor. Pet Yorkies almost always wear it short, and even then the texture demands more care than the dog's size suggests.
The coat
A single coat of fine, silky hair with no undercoat. Shedding is minimal, but the fine strands tangle and knot easily, especially behind the ears, in the armpits and anywhere a jumper or harness rubs. The coat parts naturally down the spine and offers little weather protection — most Yorkies genuinely need that coat in winter.
How often should a Yorkshire Terrier be groomed?
Every 4–6 weeks professionally for a short pet trim, with gentle brushing at home every couple of days using a soft slicker and fine comb. In a longer coat, daily combing and regular conditioning are required — silk breaks and knots when dry. The topknot isn't just decorative: hair grows into Yorkie eyes and needs tying up or trimming.
Popular styles
- Puppy clip — one short, even length; the standard pet Yorkie look and the easiest to live with.
- Teddy bear — slightly longer, rounder face; very popular and still practical.
- Skirt/saddle trims — short back with longer skirt; a nod to the show look without the floor-length commitment.
- Full show coat — floor-length, wrapped and oiled between shows. Spectacular and essentially a hobby in itself.
What does Yorkshire Terrier grooming cost?
One of the more affordable breeds to groom: typically £28–40 for a full groom, reflecting the small size — though very knotted coats or nervous dogs take longer and cost more.
Between grooms
Comb little and often — five minutes every other day beats a weekly battle. Keep the face trimmed or tied up out of the eyes, wipe eye corners regularly, and check knots at friction points, especially if your Yorkie wears coats or jumpers in winter (put them on a brushed coat, and don't leave them on damp). Small breed, small teeth: many groomers offer teeth-brushing as an add-on, and Yorkies need it more than most.