The Yorkshire terrier was developed in Yorkshire, England during the Victorian era. The breed is thought to descend from several other terriers including the Maltese, black & tan Manchester, and Dandie Dinmont terrier as well as some breeds that are now extinct such as the Clydesdale terrier.
Other historical information about the breed is uncertain or conflicting. Some believe the dogs were bred by working men in Northern England who could not easily keep large dogs, yet wanted a feisty companion. Other reports say the Yorkie was developed for catching rats that infested mine shafts and as a dog to enter badger and fox burrows. Yet another theory is that Scotsmen working in Yorkshire wool mills developed the breed.
The original Yorkshire terriers were larger than those of today. Through selective breeding, the dogs were miniaturized and became a dog that was fashionable to own. In the United States, the breed first appeared in shows during the late 1800s. Today, the Yorkie is primarily a pampered companion and lapdog.