Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Yorkshire Terrier Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Yorkshire Terrier colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Yorkshire Terrier belongs to the Toy group and originates from England. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds, standing 7 to 8 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 11 to 15 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $108 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Yorkshire Terrier Colors Overview
Born black and tan, Yorkies gradually develop their signature blue-steel coloring as they mature, a process driven by a progressive graying gene that can take up to three years.. Breed standards outline which colors are accepted for conformation showing.
Color inheritance involves multiple genes, including the E (extension), A (agouti), K (dominant black), and B (brown) loci. DNA testing can predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive color genes.
All Yorkshire Terrier Colors
The Yorkshire Terrier is recognized in 4 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Yorkshire Terriers make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Yorkshire Terrier Colors
Standard colors (3): Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Yorkshire Terriers are typically priced within the normal $1000–$2500 range.
Non-standard colors (1): Black and Gold. These colors occur in the breed but are not accepted for conformation showing. Non-standard colors may be priced higher or lower than standard colors depending on demand and breeder practices. Health and temperament are not affected by coat color in most cases.
How Color Affects Yorkshire Terrier Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($1000–$2500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$750–$1250) |
While color can influence the price of a Yorkshire Terrier puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Yorkshire Terrier in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Yorkshire Terriers is $1000–$2500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Yorkshire Terrier Coat Type and Grooming
The Yorkshire Terrier's silky coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 5/5 and shedding at 1/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $63–82 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Yorkshire Terriers benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Yorkshire Terrier Coat Genetics
Color genetics in Yorkshire Terriers involve multiple loci working together. Born black and tan, Yorkies gradually develop their signature blue-steel coloring as they mature, a process driven by a progressive graying gene that can take up to three years..
Key genetic loci include E (controls whether pigment is expressed), A (pattern distribution), K (solid vs. patterned), and B (black vs. brown base). DNA testing allows breeders to predict litter colors accurately.
Rare vs Standard Yorkshire Terrier Colors
Among Yorkshire Terriers, the standard colors (Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan) are most common. Non-standard colors like Black and Gold are rarer and may command premium prices above the standard $1000–$2500 range. Buyers should be cautious, extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
Born black and tan, Yorkies gradually develop their signature blue-steel coloring as they mature, a process driven by a progressive graying gene that can take up to three years..
Do Yorkshire Terrier Colors Change with Age?
Do not be surprised if your Yorkshire Terrier puppy's color changes as they grow. Their silky coat can look very different at 3 months versus 12 months. Colors like Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold may shift, sometimes dramatically, during this transition. Born black and tan, Yorkies gradually develop their signature blue-steel coloring as they mature, a process driven by a progressive graying gene that can take up to three years..
Choosing a Yorkshire Terrier by Color
When selecting a Yorkshire Terrier puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Patellar Luxation. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 4 recognized Yorkshire Terrier colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
In the Yorkshire Terrier world, so-called 'rare' colors can be controversial. The breed standard recognizes colors like Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan, and deviations may involve genes associated with health problems. Breeders who focus on color over health may cut corners on testing for Patellar Luxation and Portosystemic Shunt.
Frequently Asked Questions
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