Skye Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Skye Terrier is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitSkye TerrierYorkshire Terrier
Group
TerrierToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
ScotlandEngland
Height (male)
10"7–8"
Height (female)
9.5"7–8"
Weight (male)
35–45 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
25–35 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years11–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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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Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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