Border Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Border Terrier is the larger breed at 13–15.5 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierYorkshire Terrier
Group
TerrierToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
13–15"7–8"
Height (female)
13–15"7–8"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years11–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

About the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.

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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental disease