National Yorkie Day

Adorable Yorkshire Terrier with a bow in its hair, sitting on a cozy plaid blanket, surrounded by colorful flowers.. — National yorkie day illustration

Welcome to National Yorkie Day, where we celebrate the adorable little furballs known as Yorkshire Terriers! These pint-sized pups may be small in stature, but they make up for it with their big personalities. So grab your favorite four-legged friend and get ready for a day filled with joy, appreciation, and maybe a few face licks along the way!

When is Yorkie Day?

It's national yorkie day on the 1st August.

The Origin of National Yorkie Day

Every dog has its day, and on August 1st, it's the Yorkies' turn to shine! National Yorkie Day was established to honor these lovable companions and raise awareness about the breed. While the exact origins of this special day remain a bit of a mystery, we suspect it was dreamed up by a group of Yorkie enthusiasts who just couldn't resist celebrating these tiny bundles of joy.

Yorkshire Terrier: A Brief History

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, hails from the county of, you guessed it, Yorkshire, England. These dainty dogs were originally bred in the 19th century to catch rats in clothing mills. But before long, they wormed their way into the hearts of people everywhere with their adorable looks and spunky personalities.

Yorkies quickly gained popularity as fashionable companions, often seen trotting alongside their well-to-do owners. In fact, they became so beloved that they were even used to create new breeds, like the silky-yorkie mix known as the Silky Terrier.

How to Celebrate National Yorkie Day

So, how can you make the most of National Yorkie Day? Here are a few fun ideas to get you started:

Dress up your Yorkie in a cute outfit or treat them to a new accessory. They deserve to look as fabulous as they feel!
Take your furry friend on an extra special walk, and let them strut their stuff. Bonus points if you find a park where they can meet up with their fellow Yorkies.
Pamper your Yorkie with a spa day, complete with a bath, grooming session, and maybe even a doggy massage if they're lucky!
Spoil your Yorkie with their favorite treats or even whip up a homemade batch of doggy delights. They'll be licking their chops in appreciation!
Donate to a Yorkie rescue or advocacy organization to help support these wonderful dogs in need. It's a great way to give back and make a difference in their lives.

Did You Know?

Did you know that despite their small size, Yorkies are known for having big hearts? They may be tiny, but they have enough love to fill a room! These little dynamos are fiercely loyal and make excellent companions for individuals and families alike.

History behind the term 'Yorkie'

1861

Birth of the Yorkshire Terrier

The term 'yorkie' originates from the Yorkshire Terrier, a small dog breed that was first bred in Yorkshire, England in 1861. The breed was developed by crossing various terrier breeds, including the Clydesdale Terrier and the Paisley Terrier. Initially, Yorkshire Terriers were bred for catching rats in Yorkshire's clothing mills and mines, but they quickly gained popularity as companion dogs due to their small size, friendly temperament, and luxurious silky coats.

Late 1800s

Recognizing the Yorkshire Terrier as a breed

In the late 1800s, the Yorkshire Terrier started gaining recognition as a distinct breed. The term 'yorkie' became synonymous with the breed, often used by breed enthusiasts and owners to refer to their beloved dogs. The Yorkshire Terrier's popularity as a pet soared during this time, and they began to be showcased in dog shows across England.

1972

Recognition by the American Kennel Club

In 1972, the Yorkshire Terrier was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This recognition further solidified the breed's popularity and elevated the term 'yorkie' to a household name in the United States. Yorkshire Terriers quickly became one of the most sought-after small dog breeds, known for their adorable looks, lively personalities, and adaptability to apartment living.

Present

Continued Popularity and Cultural Impact

Today, the term 'yorkie' not only refers to the Yorkshire Terrier breed but has also extended to various products and services associated with the breed. 'Yorkie' is commonly used to describe Yorkshire Terrier-themed accessories, clothing, toys, and even specialized grooming services. The popularity of 'yorkies' as pets continues to grow worldwide, with many celebrities owning and showcasing their beloved Yorkshire Terriers.