Yorkshire Terrier Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Yorkshire Terrier colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

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.

Recognized Colors

Blue and Tan Standard

Blue and Gold Standard

Black and Tan Standard

Black and Gold

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($1000–$2500)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$750–$1250)

Coat Genetics

Yorkshire Terrier coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.

DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. 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..

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Yorkshire Terrier colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 4 color varieties, with standard colors including Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Yorkshire Terrier breeder will never compromise health testing (for Patellar Luxation and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $1000–$2500 standard range.

Do Yorkshire Terrier Colors Change with Age?

Many Yorkshire Terrier puppies experience some degree of color change as they mature. Their silky coat undergoes significant textural changes alongside color shifts. Standard colors (Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan) typically stabilize as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months of age.

Controversial Colors

Be cautious of Yorkshire Terrier breeders who promote non-standard colors at prices above the typical $1000–$2500 range. These 'rare' colors may not be recognized by kennel clubs and can occasionally carry genetic health risks. A responsible Yorkshire Terrier breeder from the Toy group focuses on health testing for Patellar Luxation and temperament first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard Yorkshire Terrier colors include Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan. 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..

Among Yorkshire Terrier colors, rarity reflects recessive genetics rather than quality. 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..

Color changes during the puppy-to-adult coat transition (4–12 months) are normal in Yorkshire Terriers. Their silky coat undergoes significant texture changes during this period as well. Standard colors (Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan) tend to be established by maturity.

For the Yorkshire Terrier, standard colors have no known health associations. Some non-standard colors in certain breeds can be linked to deafness, eye problems, or skin sensitivity. 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..

Among Yorkshire Terriers, the most commonly seen colors are Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan. As the breed standard recognizes 4 color variations, there is good variety to choose from. 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..