When you think of Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, you might imagine cute and cuddly dogs that fit in a purse or a lap.
But did you know that these tiny dogs have a big and bold history of hunting rats and other vermin?
Yorkies were born to be ratters
We will explore the fascinating connection between Yorkies and rats, from their origins in northern England to their popularity around the world.
They were originally bred in the mid-1800s by Scottish workers who migrated to the mines and mills of Yorkshire, where rats were a major nuisance and a health hazard.
These workers crossed various small terriers, such as the Skye, Maltese, and Waterside terriers, to create a new breed that was small enough to squeeze into narrow spaces, but fierce enough to catch and kill rodents.
Yorkies were also used for hunting small game that lived underground, such as foxes and badgers, by following them into their burrows and flushing them out.
| Aspect | Yorkie | Rat |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 5 to 7 pounds | 0.5 to 1 pound |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years | 1 to 3 years |
| Coat | Silky and long | Coarse and short |
| Teeth | 42 | 16 |
| Prey drive | High | Low |
Yorkies were not only ratters and hunters, but also entertainers and competitors
They participated in the cruel sport of rat baiting, where they were placed in a pit with rats and bets were made on how fast they could kill them all.
They also made their debut in dog shows in the 1860s, under the name of “broken-haired Scotch terrier”.
One of the most influential Yorkies in history was Huddersfield Ben, who was a champion show dog, a prolific stud, and a legendary ratter.
He is considered the father of the breed and the one who set the standard for the smaller size and the silky coat of the modern Yorkie.
Yorkies became mainstream in the late 1800s
They caught the eye of the fashionable ladies of Victorian England.
They were admired for their elegant appearance and their loyal personality.
They also crossed the Atlantic and arrived in America, where they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Since then, Yorkies have become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and have been involved in many fields, such as war, politics, cinema, and social media.
Yorkies are more than just adorable pets
They are also brave and smart dogs, who have a rich and diverse history.
Yorkies are the descendants of ratting and hunting dogs, who have evolved into the charming and graceful companions that we know today.
Yorkies are the perfect example of how a dog can have both beauty and brains, and how a dog can have a big impact on the world, despite its small size.
Yorkies are truly remarkable dogs, who deserve our respect and admiration.
