Yorkshire Terrier vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
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Yorkshire Terrier
Small in size but big in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier charms with boldness and affection. Its silky coat and lively spirit make it an ideal companion.

Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Small
2–3.2 kg
Silky, straight
12–16 years
2–3.2 kg
Moderately active
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Yorkshire Terrier
Enjoys people but can be selective with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active and alert throughout the day
Likes games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to various living environments
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Yorkshire Terrier
Dental issues, luxating patella
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Yorkshire Terrier
Good option
Their small size and moderate exercise needs suit new dog owners well.
Excellent fit
Yorkies adapt well to small spaces and require minimal room to thrive.
Somewhat suitable
They enjoy play but don’t require intense daily exercise.
Not ideal
Their fragile build makes them less tolerant of rough play from young children.
Possible fit
Can get along with other pets if socialized early and monitored.
Prone to anxiety
They dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues.
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Yorkshire Terrier
- Alert and responsive to surroundings
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Compact size suits apartment living
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Adaptable to various daily routines
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Yorkshire Terrier
- Prone to separation anxiety when alone
- Fragile bones due to small size
- Tendency toward excessive barking
- Needs regular grooming and coat care
- Can be stubborn during training
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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