9 Essential Facts About the Yorkie Poo You Should Know

Thinking about bringing a Yorkie Poo into your life? These pint-sized pups are full of personality, energy, and love — but like any breed, they come with their quirks. Here’s what I’ve learned from working with small breed mixes like the Yorkie Poo and what you should know before deciding if this little dynamo is right for you.

Small Dog, Big Personality

Yorkie Poos are a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. That mix gives you a dog that typically weighs under 15 pounds and stands no taller than 15 inches. They’re tiny — perfect for your lap or apartment living — but they don’t always act their size. Expect confidence, sass, and a dog that thinks it can take on the world (or at least the neighbor’s Lab).

One thing to watch out for: the smaller the dog, the higher the chance of health issues related to poor breeding. Always go with a reputable breeder who provides health clearances, or consider adoption where rescue staff can give you honest insights into a dog’s health and temperament.

They’re Energetic (But Not Exhausting)

Despite their size, Yorkie Poos are surprisingly energetic. Both Yorkies and Poodles were originally bred with purpose — hunting rats and retrieving birds — so don’t be fooled by their dainty looks. That said, they don’t need hours of running. A couple of short walks and some tug or fetch in the living room usually does the trick. They’re great for folks who want an active companion but not a high-maintenance athlete.

Smart and (Mostly) Willing to Learn

Poodles are people-pleasers. Yorkies? Not so much — they can be a little headstrong. When you combine the two, you get a dog that’s usually eager to learn but might test your patience now and then. Consistency and positive training work wonders. Start early, keep it fun, and don’t let that cute face get away with bad habits.

A Velcro Dog With a Side of Sass

Yorkie Poos love their people. They’ll follow you from room to room and curl up in your lap the second you sit down. That affection is sweet, but it also means they don’t like being left alone for long. Some can develop separation anxiety, so it helps if you work from home or have a pet sitter or doggy daycare option.

One heads-up: they can be barkers. Some bark out of boredom, others at every noise outside. With training, you can tone it down — but don’t expect silence. It’s part of the terrier package.

Great With Families — When Socialized Well

With proper socialization, Yorkie Poos usually do great with kids, other dogs, and even cats. Their small size means you’ll need to supervise play with young children to avoid accidental injuries, but their social nature makes them solid family dogs. Just make sure they meet plenty of people and pets early on so they grow up confident rather than fearful or snappy.

That Luxurious Coat Needs Some TLC

Yorkie Poos often inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding coat — which is great for allergy sufferers — but that doesn’t mean low-maintenance. Their hair can range from silky to curly, and it needs regular brushing to prevent mats. Plan for daily brushing and monthly baths, and consider a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks to keep things tidy.

Colors vary widely, and their coat can change a bit as they age. If you’re getting a first-generation mix, expect some unpredictability. Later-generation Yorkie Poos tend to have more consistent coats.

Health: What to Watch For

Like all dogs, Yorkie Poos can inherit health issues from either parent. Some of the common concerns include:

• Patellar luxation (knee issues)
• Epilepsy
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (hip joint problems)
• Hypothyroidism
• Skin allergies (atopic dermatitis)
• Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
• Liver shunt (PSS)

The best way to stack the odds in your favor? Choose a breeder who screens for genetic health problems or adopt from a rescue that does vet checks. And of course, regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and keeping their weight in check go a long way in keeping your Yorkie Poo healthy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a loving, lively little companion who’ll cuddle on the couch and make you laugh daily, the Yorkie Poo might be your perfect match. They’re smart, adaptable, and full of heart — just be ready for some barking, grooming, and lots of attention.

And trust me, once you’ve had a small dog with a big personality, it’s hard to imagine life without one.