Yorkshire terrier at a glance
| Adult weight | 2 to 3kg |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Typical lifespan | About 14 years |
| Grooming | A groomer about every 6 weeks |
| Health | Some known breed problems |
What a Yorkshire terrier costs
| First yearIncluding a £1,000 puppy, kit, vaccinations, spaying and training | £3,223 |
|---|---|
| Each year after | £1,438 |
| A month, after year one | £120 |
| Over about 14 years | £21,917 |
| With a dog sitter 3 days a weekAt £90 a week | +£4,680 a year |
These assume a girl puppy, about £9 a month of mid-range dry food for a 2.5kg adult, regular grooming, a week of kennels a year and no daycare. The calculator above shows every line.
Health problems to know about
Yorkies are known to be prone to:
- Dental disease
- Slipping kneecaps
- A collapsing windpipe
Ask the breeder for health test results for both parents. Not every Yorkshire terrier will have these problems, but they’re why insurance matters: a long-term condition can cost hundreds or thousands of pounds a year.
Insuring a Yorkshire terrier?
Look for lifetime cover with at least £5,000 a year for vet fees, and check what it says about dental disease.
Compare dog insuranceWe may be paid if you use this link. It never changes our sums.
Next steps
- Check which insurance a Yorkshire terrier needs
- See how big your Yorkshire terrier puppy will get
- Work out how much to feed a Yorkshire terrier puppy
- Check a Yorkshire terrier breeder before you pay a deposit
Questions
How much does a Yorkshire terrier cost a month?
About £120 a month after the first year, for insurance, food, flea treatment, grooming, boosters and small vet bills. Daycare or a dog sitter is extra.
How much does a Yorkshire terrier cost in the first year?
About £3,223, including a £1,000 puppy price, kit, vaccinations, spaying, training, insurance and food. Breeders’ prices vary a lot, so put in yours.
How much is insurance for a Yorkshire terrier?
Our starting figure is £33 a month for lifetime cover for a young Yorkshire terrier, but quotes vary with where you live and the policy. Look for a vet fee limit of at least £5,000 a year.
How long do Yorkies live?
About 14 years on average.

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