Yorkie Poo Breed Information
The Yorkie Poo — sometimes spelled Yorkipoo — is the kind of dog that seems tailor-made for companionship. A cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, this pint-sized hybrid has carved out a special place in the world of designer dogs. With their expressive eyes, bouncy energy, and undeniable charm, Yorkie Poos don’t just enter your home — they settle into your heart.
Originally developed to combine the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the bold personality and petite size of the Yorkshire Terrier, the Yorkie Poo delivers on both counts. What you get is a dog that’s bright, emotionally tuned-in, and always ready for whatever’s next — whether it’s a walk around the block or a cozy spot on the couch.
One of the first things people notice about the Yorkie Poo is how easily they adapt to different lifestyles. They’re just as comfortable curled up in an apartment as they are chasing a ball in the backyard. They thrive on attention and love being involved in family life — not as an accessory, but as an active participant. Whether you live solo or share your home with kids, cats, or other dogs, Yorkie Poos usually find their rhythm fast.
But they’re not just adorable — they’re sharp. Yorkie Poos are known for their intelligence and curiosity, which makes them quick learners (and occasionally clever rule-breakers). With their compact build, low-shedding coats, and easygoing temperament, they’ve become a popular choice for first-time dog owners and seasoned dog lovers alike.
At their best, Yorkie Poos are joyful, intuitive, and full of life. They offer all the liveliness of a terrier, the smarts of a Poodle, and just enough sass to keep things interesting — all wrapped in a cuddly, low-maintenance package that fits neatly into just about any lifestyle.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Doodle Hybrid / Poodle crossed with a Yorkshire Terrier
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimum
TRAINING
Responsive
TEMPERAMENT
Cheerful, Intelligent, Loyal, Social
ADULT WEIGHT
3-14 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
7-15 in
LIFE SPAN
10-15 yrs
Characteristics
- Clever and Curious by Nature - Yorkie Poos are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental engagement. They’re quick to pick up on routines and love figuring things out — whether that’s learning commands or cleverly unzipping your backpack to find treats.
- Small in Size, Big in Personality - Most Yorkie Poos weigh between 5 and 15 pounds and stand 7 to 15 inches tall, depending on whether the Poodle parent was a Toy or Miniature. They may be small, but they carry themselves with a confidence that feels much larger than their size.
- Expressive, Alert Faces - Their eyes are round and bright, full of expression, and often hint at their mood before they make a sound. Ears may stand up, flop down, or do a little of both — giving each Yorkie Poo a one-of-a-kind look.
- Low-Shedding, Soft Coats - Their coat type can vary — from loose curls to soft waves or even silky straight — depending on which parent they take after. Regardless of texture, most Yorkie Poos are low-shedding and considered more hypoallergenic than the average breed.
- Eager to Be Included - Yorkie Poos thrive on human interaction. They don’t like being left out or ignored and often follow their people from room to room — just to be part of the action.
- Vocal, But Trainable - This mix often has something to say — especially when they’re excited or curious. With early training, their tendency to bark can be shaped into a healthy alertness rather than excessive noise.
- Emotionally Attuned - These dogs are surprisingly in tune with the emotions of their humans. If you're feeling down, a Yorkie Poo is the kind of dog that will quietly curl up next to you or place a paw on your arm — just to check in.
- Balanced Energy Levels - Yorkie Poos enjoy bursts of play, but they also know when to settle. A brisk walk and a few play sessions each day are enough to meet their needs, making them great for people with moderately active lifestyles.
- Highly Adaptable - Whether they’re living in a city apartment or a suburban home, Yorkie Poos adjust easily — as long as they have attention, consistency, and a little space to play.
Appearance
There’s no one-size-fits-all look when it comes to the Yorkie Poo — and that’s part of what makes them so irresistible. As a hybrid between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, the Yorkie Poo inherits a charming mix of features from both sides. The result? A compact, stylish companion with a head-turning coat, a lively expression, and a posture that says “I’m ready for anything.”
Size varies depending on which type of Poodle is in the mix. Most Yorkie Poos fall somewhere between 7 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 5 to 15 pounds. Toy Poodle crosses tend to be on the smaller end, while Miniature Poodle crosses produce dogs with slightly longer legs and a bit more sturdiness. Despite their small frame, they’re agile, quick on their feet, and carry themselves with a confident trot.
The coat is one of the Yorkie Poo’s standout features. It can be:
- Curly like a Poodle,
- Wavy and full-bodied, or
- Silky and straight like a Yorkie’s.
This texture range makes them a bit of a surprise — no two Yorkie Poos are quite the same. Most, however, are low-shedding and considered more allergy-friendly than average. Their hair grows continuously, much like both parent breeds, which means regular grooming is a must to keep their coat looking healthy and polished.
Colors span a wide palette. You’ll see Yorkie Poos in:
- Black
- Cream
- Apricot
- Tan
- Silver
- White
- Chocolate
- Gray
- Or multi-color combinations like black and tan or silver and apricot
Many puppies are born with darker coats that lighten or change pattern as they age — a genetic trait inherited from the Yorkshire Terrier side.
Their face is typically soft and expressive, with round, dark eyes that project alertness and emotion. Their muzzle is proportional and neat — not too short, not overly pointed. Ears can be upright, dropped, or somewhere in between, depending on genetic influence. A Yorkie Poo’s face often carries a curious, intelligent expression that tends to draw people in.
The tail is usually medium in length and may curl slightly over the back or be carried level. Some breeders choose to dock the tail, though many Yorkie Poos are left natural — with a fluffy plume that wags nonstop.
Temperament
The Yorkie Poo is a dog that brings energy, emotion, and personality in equal measure. Bred from two companion-oriented breeds — the bold Yorkshire Terrier and the brainy Poodle — Yorkie Poos are more than just cute. They’re expressive, alert, and deeply people-focused. Whether they’re bouncing across the room or curled up in your lap, they’re always tuned in to the humans around them.
What stands out first is their affectionate nature. Yorkie Poos love attention and are happiest when they’re involved in whatever you’re doing. They’re not just satisfied being nearby — they want to be part of things. Whether you’re cooking, reading, or binge-watching a show, there’s a good chance your Yorkie Poo is either underfoot or snuggled right next to you.
They’re also known for their sharp intelligence. With the Poodle’s smarts and the Yorkie’s quick thinking, this breed often figures things out fast — from opening cabinet doors to navigating new routines. That intelligence makes them trainable, but also means they can get bored easily if not mentally engaged. If left to their own devices too often, they may channel that mental energy into barking, chewing, or digging for something more interesting.
Yorkie Poos are often described as lively and playful, with a dash of sass. They enjoy short bursts of activity — a quick game of fetch, a puzzle toy challenge, or a few zoomies around the living room — followed by downtime with their favorite person. Their energy is manageable, but it does need a consistent outlet to prevent restlessness.
When it comes to social behavior, most Yorkie Poos are friendly and outgoing, especially when socialized early. They usually get along well with other dogs and pets, and they can do great with respectful kids. That said, because of their small size, they can be a little timid or sensitive if handled roughly or surprised. Teaching kids how to interact gently and giving the dog space when needed helps prevent overwhelm or anxiety.
One trait worth noting is their emotional sensitivity. These dogs read the room. If you’re upset, they’ll likely notice — and try to comfort you in their own way. That emotional depth makes them wonderful therapy or emotional support dogs, and also means they thrive in homes with consistency, warmth, and plenty of interaction.
While they may occasionally act like they run the place — especially if they pick up too much from their terrier side — early training and clear boundaries help shape a Yorkie Poo that’s both confident and cooperative. With a little patience and a lot of praise, their true personality shines: spirited, sweet, and always ready to love.
Care
Grooming
Grooming a Yorkie Poo is more than just a beauty routine — it’s a key part of keeping this breed healthy, comfortable, and happy. With a coat that often lands somewhere between the Poodle’s tight curls and the Yorkie’s silky strands, the Yorkie Poo’s grooming needs can vary — but one thing’s for sure: routine matters.
Most Yorkie Poos have low-shedding coats, which is great for allergy-conscious homes. But that also means their hair keeps growing and can tangle or mat if not regularly maintained. For most, brushing at least three to four times a weekis ideal. Dogs with curlier coats may even benefit from a daily brush, especially in friction zones like under the legs, around the neck, and behind the ears.
Using a pin brush or slicker brush, along with a stainless steel comb for detailed work, helps keep the coat smooth and free of debris. Brushing isn’t just about looks — it distributes natural oils, promotes circulation, and gives you a chance to check for lumps, irritations, or signs of skin trouble.
Bathing should be done every 3 to 4 weeks, or more often if your Yorkie Poo is particularly active or prone to skin sensitivities. Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo — preferably one made for dogs with sensitive skin — and follow with a conditioner or detangling spray if their coat is on the longer or curlier side.
Haircuts are also part of the package. Many owners opt for a “puppy cut”, which keeps the coat short, neat, and easier to maintain between grooming appointments. Others may prefer a slightly longer look with rounded face shaping or feathered legs. Either way, professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks helps manage the coat and keeps your Yorkie Poo looking and feeling their best.
But it doesn’t stop at brushing and bathing. Nail trimming should be done every few weeks — overgrown nails can cause posture issues or discomfort, especially in smaller dogs. Ear cleaning is important too, particularly if your dog has floppy ears that can trap moisture. Check weekly for wax buildup, odor, or redness. And don’t forget dental care — brushing your Yorkie Poo’s teeth two to three times a week helps prevent tartar, gum disease, and bad breath.
Grooming time can also be bonding time. Many Yorkie Poos enjoy the routine once they’re used to it — especially if it comes with a calm environment, some gentle talk, and a treat at the end.
Exercise Needs
The Yorkie Poo may be small, but there’s nothing miniature about their energy. With the Poodle’s lively intelligence and the Yorkie’s spirited drive, this breed thrives on movement — but in a way that’s totally manageable for most households. You don’t need a huge backyard or hours of hiking trails. What you need is consistency, engagement, and a bit of creativity.
For most Yorkie Poos, 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day is just right. That could mean two short walks — one in the morning and one in the evening — paired with a few play sessions or interactive games throughout the day. These dogs are known for their love of fetch, tug-of-war, and pretty much any toy that squeaks, crinkles, or rolls.
What makes their exercise needs so adaptable is their moderate energy level. They’re not couch potatoes, but they’re not hyperactive either. They enjoy playtime in short bursts and are usually content to lounge around the house afterward. This makes them an excellent match for apartment dwellers or families with varied schedules — as long as they get regular outlets for movement.
Mental exercise is just as important. Yorkie Poos are clever, and they can get bored easily if their minds aren’t challenged. Puzzle toys, training games, scent work, or learning new tricks are great ways to stimulate their brain and keep boredom at bay. Without that stimulation, their curiosity can turn into mischief — like chewing on shoes or finding their own “projects” around the house.
It’s also worth noting that Yorkie Poos are people-oriented. They don’t just want to exercise — they want to exercise with you. Whether it’s a quick backyard sprint or a stroll through the neighborhood, they’re most engaged when they feel connected. That connection often fuels better behavior and deeper bonding, too.
Because they’re small, Yorkie Poos are sensitive to extreme temperatures. In hot weather, walks should be limited to early morning or late evening, and in winter, a dog sweater or jacket helps them stay warm. Their paws may also need protection on icy or hot pavement.
Ultimately, exercise isn’t just a health requirement for the Yorkie Poo — it’s a daily dose of joy. When their need for movement and mental challenge is met, they’re calmer, more content, and far less likely to pick up pesky habits. And with that signature bounce in their step, they make every walk or play session feel like a celebration.
Health
The Yorkie Poo is generally a healthy little dog, especially when cared for with intention and routine. As a hybrid between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle, this breed often benefits from hybrid vigor — the genetic diversity that can reduce the likelihood of certain hereditary issues. That said, like all dogs, they have a few health quirks worth keeping an eye on — most of which are mild and very manageable with early care.
One of the most common concerns is dental health. Yorkie Poos, like many small breeds, are prone to tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and early tooth loss if dental care is overlooked. Regular brushing (ideally a few times a week), along with professional cleanings and dental chews, can go a long way toward keeping their mouth clean and pain-free.
Another issue to be aware of is patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap temporarily slips out of place. It’s common in small breeds and usually ranges from barely noticeable to mild. If your Yorkie Poo occasionally “skips” a step or holds up one leg for a moment, this may be the cause. Most dogs live comfortably with it, especially if they maintain a healthy weight and avoid strenuous jumping.
Allergies can also crop up — especially skin sensitivities triggered by grooming products, food ingredients, or environmental irritants. If your Yorkie Poo licks their paws excessively, scratches often, or develops dry patches, a gentle diet or hypoallergenic shampoo may help. In more persistent cases, your vet can suggest targeted solutions.
Ear health is another area to keep on your radar. If your Yorkie Poo has floppy or semi-floppy ears, moisture and wax can build up, leading to mild infections. Weekly ear checks and regular cleanings can prevent issues before they start — especially after baths or swim sessions.
Occasionally, Yorkie Poos may experience mild digestive sensitivity, especially if their diet changes abruptly or includes fatty treats. Sticking to a consistent, high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds often keeps their system balanced and predictable.
Lifespan
The Yorkie Poo is known for being a long-lived, resilient little companion. With proper care, most Yorkie Poos enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, often remaining active, affectionate, and full of personality throughout that time. Their longevity is a major draw for families and individuals looking for a dog that truly becomes part of daily life for the long haul.
One reason the Yorkie Poo tends to have a longer lifespan is genetic balance. As a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle — both breeds with strong life expectancies — this hybrid often inherits the best of both lines. Many also benefit from hybrid vigor, a natural boost in health that can come from mixing two distinct gene pools.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the key to supporting this breed’s full life potential. That includes:
- Daily physical activity, like walks or playful games to keep their heart and joints healthy
- Consistent grooming and hygiene routines to protect skin, coat, ears, and teeth
- High-quality, portion-controlled nutrition tailored for small breeds
- Regular veterinary checkups, even when they seem perfectly fine, to monitor baseline health
Another major factor in the Yorkie Poo’s long lifespan is their strong emotional connection with their people. These dogs are incredibly in tune with their surroundings and thrive on love, routine, and attention. A happy Yorkie Poo is typically a healthy one — and their mental wellbeing can have just as much of an impact on physical longevity as diet and exercise.
Because they’re small, their bodies are less prone to some of the issues that affect larger breeds. They’re not hauling around heavy weight, and they don’t need high-impact exercise to stay in shape. That makes them easier to manage and monitor for early signs of discomfort, should anything come up.
In homes where they receive balanced care and regular interaction, Yorkie Poos often become the heartbeat of the household — full of personality, quick with affection, and a lasting presence in everyday life.
Training
Training a Yorkie Poo is often an enjoyable, even entertaining, process. Thanks to the intelligence of the Poodle and the determination of the Yorkshire Terrier, this hybrid tends to be alert, sharp, and responsive — but they also come with a little independent streak. That means the right approach isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Positive reinforcement is the gold standard for Yorkie Poo training. These dogs respond best to rewards like small treats, cheerful praise, or brief play sessions. Their eagerness to please kicks in when they know something good comes out of following your lead. Harsh tones or scolding usually backfire, especially with dogs as emotionally sensitive and people-oriented as this.
Basic commands like sit, stay, and come are usually picked up quickly, especially if introduced early. Keep training sessions short — around 10 to 15 minutes — and make them part of a daily routine. Yorkie Poos enjoy the mental challenge and love the one-on-one attention. Teaching fun tricks or agility games can also double as enrichment and bonding.
One area that often requires a bit more patience is house training. Like many small breeds, Yorkie Poos have small bladders and may take a little longer to develop consistent potty habits. Crate training, a structured schedule, and frequent outdoor breaks are key. Pee pads can help during the early months, especially for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor access.
Socialization is equally important. Exposing your Yorkie Poo to a variety of people, places, sounds, and animals from a young age helps them grow into confident, well-rounded companions. Without early socialization, they can become clingy, overly vocal, or anxious in unfamiliar situations.
Speaking of barking — it’s part of their nature to alert you to sounds, visitors, or even a bird outside the window. While this makes them excellent little watchdogs, it can become excessive without boundaries. Teaching a “quiet” command early, along with providing enough mental stimulation, goes a long way toward shaping appropriate behavior.
One of the best things about training a Yorkie Poo is how much they enjoy the process when it feels like a shared activity. They don’t just want to learn — they want to interact, engage, and be seen. That emotional intelligence, paired with their quick mind, makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners as well as those looking to explore more advanced obedience or trick work.
History
The Yorkie Poo, also spelled Yorkipoo, is a modern hybrid that emerged as part of the designer dog trend that began gaining traction in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While mixed-breed dogs have always existed, the Yorkie Poo was one of several purpose-bred crosses developed to meet specific lifestyle needs — in this case, a small, low-shedding companion dog with intelligence, charm, and a hypoallergenic coat.
By combining the Yorkshire Terrier, a spunky toy breed known for its confident personality and elegant, silky coat, with the Poodle — often a Toy or Miniature variety — breeders hoped to produce a dog that was both affectionate and easy to train. The result was a hybrid with a lively spirit, a manageable grooming routine, and the kind of social intelligence that makes them easy to bond with.
The idea of crossing these two breeds was part of a broader effort to create what many call “the best of both worlds” — pets that maintain desirable qualities while reducing certain health risks or grooming challenges seen in purebreds. This strategy is often credited with promoting hybrid vigor, which can enhance genetic diversity and lead to healthier dogs overall.
Unlike the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle — both of which are recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC) — the Yorkie Poo is not officially recognized as a breed. However, it is registered by several hybrid and designer breed organizations, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), which help track lineage and provide informal breed standards.
The breed’s popularity spread quickly across the United States, particularly in urban areas and among first-time dog owners. Their small size, adaptable temperament, and low-shedding coat made them ideal for apartments, allergy-sensitive homes, and people looking for a low-maintenance but high-companionship pup.
Today, the Yorkie Poo continues to grow in popularity not just for its appearance, but for the well-rounded nature of its personality. They’ve become a go-to choice for families, singles, retirees, and even therapy dog programs — all drawn to a dog that brings playfulness, comfort, and connection to the table.
While the Yorkie Poo’s story is still relatively new, it’s already clear that this crossbreed has earned a permanent place in the hearts of dog lovers — and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.