Yorkie Poo: The Complete Guide to This Tiny Designer Dog

What Two Breeds Make Up a Yorkie Poo?

The Yorkie Poo (also spelled Yorkipoo, Yorkie-Poo, or YorkiePoo) is a designer cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This pairing combines one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States with the highly intelligent, low-shedding Poodle. The result is a small companion dog that typically weighs between 4 and 15 pounds (1.8–6.8 kg) and stands 7 to 15 inches (18–38 cm) tall at the shoulder.

Unlike purebred dogs governed by a single breed standard, Yorkie Poos are inherently variable. Each individual inherits a unique combination of traits from both parent breeds, meaning littermates can look and behave quite differently. This guide breaks down what you can reasonably expect — and where surprises are likely.

Parent Breed Breakdown

Parent Breed Comparison: Yorkshire Terrier vs. Poodle (Toy/Miniature)

Trait	Yorkshire Terrier	Toy/Miniature Poodle
AKC Group	Toy Group	Toy or Non-Sporting Group
Weight Range	4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg)	Toy: 4–6 lb; Mini: 10–15 lb (1.8–6.8 kg)
Height	7–8 in (18–20 cm)	Toy: ≤10 in; Mini: 10–15 in (25–38 cm)
Coat Type	Long, silky, single-layer	Curly, dense, single-layer
Shedding Level	Very low	Very low
Energy Level	Moderate	Moderate to high
Trainability	Moderate (independent streak)	Very high
Vocalization	High — alert barker	Moderate to high
Lifespan	11–15 years	10–18 years
Common Health Risks	Luxating patella, tracheal collapse, portosystemic shunt	Addison's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation

The Yorkshire Terrier brings terrier boldness, a silky coat, and a strong alert-barking instinct. The Poodle contributes intelligence, a hypoallergenic curly coat, and a willingness to learn complex tasks. Both breeds are long-lived toy dogs, which gives the Yorkie Poo a favorable longevity outlook. For more on both parent breeds, see the AKC Yorkshire Terrier page and the AKC Poodle page.

Understanding Yorkie Poo Generations: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen

For most buyers, an F1 or F1B from a breeder who can show health-tested parent dogs is the safest choice. Multigen Yorkie Poos can carry accumulated health risks if breeders haven't screened for inherited conditions across multiple generations. Always ask to see Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or equivalent health certificates for both parents regardless of generation.

Yorkie Poo Size: How Big Will They Get?

Size is one of the most variable traits in this mix because the Poodle parent can be either a Toy (4–6 lb) or a Miniature (10–15 lb). A Yorkie Poo from a Toy Poodle parent will be noticeably smaller than one from a Miniature Poodle parent.

Yorkie Poo Size Ranges by Parent Poodle Type

Parent Poodle Type	Expected Weight	Expected Height	Size Category
Yorkshire Terrier × Toy Poodle	4–8 lb (1.8–3.6 kg)	7–10 in (18–25 cm)	Teacup/Tiny Toy
Yorkshire Terrier × Miniature Poodle	7–15 lb (3.2–6.8 kg)	10–15 in (25–38 cm)	Small Toy

Even within the same litter, puppies can vary by 2–4 pounds at maturity. If size matters to you — for apartment living, travel, or compatibility with small children — ask the breeder for the exact weight and height of both parent dogs. A puppy typically reaches about 75% of adult weight by 6 months of age.

Coat Types, Colors, and Shedding: What to Expect

Both parent breeds are low-shedding, but "low-shedding" is not the same as "non-shedding." A Yorkie Poo will shed minimally regardless of coat type, but the texture and grooming demands differ significantly.

The Three Coat Possibilities

• Curly/Wavy (Poodle-dominant): Tight curls or loose waves, similar to a Poodle. Most likely in F1B puppies backcrossed to a Poodle. Requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Least likely to shed but most prone to matting.
• Straight/Silky (Yorkie-dominant): Fine, straight hair resembling the Yorkshire Terrier's coat. More common in F1 puppies or reverse F1B crosses. Easier to brush at home but still needs daily combing if kept long. Low matting risk compared to curly coats.
• Mixed/Combination: Some dogs inherit a wiry or combination coat — straight on the body with curly furnishings on the ears, legs, or tail. This is common in F1 and F2 generations and can be the most unpredictable to maintain.

Common Yorkie Poo colors include black and tan (inherited from the Yorkie side), apricot, cream, chocolate, silver, sable, and parti-color (white with patches). The color can change as the puppy matures — many Yorkie Poos born dark lighten significantly by age 1–2, a trait inherited from both parent breeds.

Yorkie Poo Temperament: Personality Range and Challenges

Temperament in designer crosses spans a spectrum between both parent breeds. Here's what the best-case and challenging scenarios look like:

Trait Variability: Temperament Range in Yorkie Poos

Trait	Best-Case Scenario	Challenging Scenario
Sociability	Friendly with strangers, adaptable to new environments	Wary of strangers, slow to warm up, may hide or bark
Trainability	Eager to please, picks up commands quickly (Poodle influence)	Independent and stubborn, easily distracted (terrier influence)
Energy Level	Playful but settles well indoors	Bouncy, restless, needs structured outlets or develops nuisance behaviors
Barking	Alerts to visitors then quiets	Chronic alarm barking at sounds, passersby, other dogs
Separation Tolerance	Comfortable alone for 3–4 hours	Distressed when left alone, may howl, chew, or have accidents
Child Compatibility	Gentle with respectful, older children (8+)	Snappy or fearful when handled roughly; fragile around toddlers
Dog Compatibility	Plays well with similar-sized dogs	Reactive on leash, territorial, or fearful of larger dogs

The Yorkie Poo tends to form strong bonds with one or two people and thrives as a companion dog. Early socialization between 8 and 16 weeks of age is critical — puppies that encounter a variety of people, surfaces, sounds, and other dogs during this window develop into more confident adults. Use positive reinforcement methods exclusively; aversive techniques like shock collars or alpha rolls damage trust and can worsen fear-based behaviors in sensitive toy breeds.

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality

The term hybrid vigor (heterosis) refers to the idea that crossbred dogs may have reduced risk of certain inherited diseases because they have a broader gene pool. This is partially true — mixed breeds are less likely to inherit recessive conditions that require two copies of a defective gene (one from each parent). However, hybrid vigor does not eliminate health risks. A Yorkie Poo can still inherit any condition that affects either parent breed, particularly those caused by dominant genes or shared anatomical traits.

Inherited Health Conditions to Screen For

Health Risks Inherited from Parent Breeds

Condition	Inherited From	Prevalence/Notes	Screening Available
Patellar Luxation	Both breeds	Common in toy breeds; kneecap slips out of place causing intermittent limping	OFA patella evaluation
Tracheal Collapse	Yorkshire Terrier	Progressive weakening of tracheal rings; causes honking cough, worsens with age	No genetic test; manage with harness (not collar), weight control
Portosystemic Shunt (PSS)	Yorkshire Terrier	Abnormal blood vessel bypasses liver; causes stunting, seizures, disorientation	Bile acids test, ultrasound
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease	Both breeds	Degeneration of the femoral head in young dogs (typically 4–12 months); causes hind limb lameness	X-ray diagnosis
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)	Poodle	Gradual vision loss leading to blindness; onset varies by gene variant	OFA/CERF eye exam, DNA test (prcd-PRA)
Hypoglycemia	Both (toy breed trait)	Low blood sugar, especially in puppies under 4 months; can cause weakness, seizures	Manage with frequent small meals
Dental Disease	Both breeds	Toy breeds are highly prone to early periodontal disease due to crowded teeth	Daily brushing, annual veterinary dental cleanings

Responsible breeders test parent dogs for patellar luxation, eye conditions (CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam), and cardiac issues before breeding. Ask to see written results, not verbal assurances. For a comprehensive overview of inherited conditions in small breeds, the Merck Veterinary Manual is an excellent reference.

Expected lifespan for a well-cared-for Yorkie Poo is 12–15 years, with some living to 16 or 17. Regular veterinary wellness exams every 6–12 months, weight management (ideal body condition score: 4–5 out of 9), and daily dental care are the three most impactful things you can do to maximize longevity.

Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Care

Grooming by Coat Type

Grooming requirements depend heavily on which coat your Yorkie Poo inherits:

• Curly coats: Brush every 1–2 days with a slicker brush and metal comb. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($50–$80 per session). Without regular grooming, curly coats mat quickly, especially behind the ears and under the legs. Mats can pull on skin and cause pain or infection.
• Straight/silky coats: Brush daily with a pin brush to prevent tangles. Can be kept in a shorter "puppy cut" to reduce maintenance. Bathing every 3–4 weeks with a gentle, dog-specific shampoo.
• All coat types: Clean ears weekly (toy breeds are prone to ear infections due to hair growth in the ear canal). Trim nails every 2–3 weeks. Brush teeth daily with enzymatic dog toothpaste — dental disease affects an estimated 80% of small-breed dogs by age 3.

Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Yorkie Poos need structured daily activity:

• Walks: 20–30 minutes per day, split into two shorter outings. Use a harness rather than a collar to protect the trachea.
• Indoor play: 15–20 minutes of interactive play (fetch, tug, puzzle toys) to satisfy the terrier drive and Poodle intelligence.
• Mental stimulation: Food-dispensing toys, scent games, or short training sessions (5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily). Without mental enrichment, this mix is prone to boredom barking and destructive chewing.

Yorkie Poos are not built for intense endurance exercise. Avoid long hikes or jogging — their small frame and short legs are better suited to neighborhood walks and indoor play. In cold weather (below 40°F / 4°C), a small dog sweater is recommended since they have minimal body fat and single-layer coats.

Cost Breakdown: What a Yorkie Poo Actually Costs

Yorkie Poo Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

Expense Category	Estimated Range	Notes
Puppy Purchase (Breeder)	$1,200–$4,000	Varies by generation, breeder reputation, location, and parent health testing. F1B from tested parents typically $1,800–$3,000.
Adoption/Rescue	$200–$600	Yorkie Poos occasionally appear in Poodle or small-breed rescues. Waitlists may be long.
First-Year Veterinary Costs	$500–$1,200	Includes initial exam, DHPP/rabies vaccines, spay/neuter, heartworm test, fecal exam.
Annual Veterinary Care	$400–$800	Wellness exam, vaccines, heartworm preventive, dental cleaning.
Grooming (Annual)	$350–$650	Based on professional grooming every 6–8 weeks at $50–$80 per session.
Food (Annual)	$200–$400	High-quality small-breed kibble or wet food; ~½ cup/day for a 7 lb dog.
Pet Insurance (Annual)	$360–$720	$30–$60/month for comprehensive coverage on a toy breed.
Supplies (First Year)	$300–$600	Crate, harness, bed, bowls, grooming tools, toys, dental supplies.
Estimated First-Year Total	$3,500–$8,400	Including puppy purchase from breeder.

A note on breeders: the wide price range reflects the difference between breeders who health-test parents and raise puppies in their home versus those who don't. Puppies priced below $1,000 from online listings or pet stores are often from puppy mills or backyard breeders who skip health screening. Always visit the breeder's facility, meet the parent dogs, and request written health guarantees. Adoption from a breed-specific rescue is a legitimate and often less expensive alternative — check Poodle rescues and Yorkshire Terrier rescues, which sometimes take in Yorkie Poo mixes.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Get a Yorkie Poo?

This mix is well-suited to:

• Apartment dwellers who want a small, relatively quiet companion (though barkiness varies — early training helps)
• Older adults or retirees looking for an affectionate, manageable-sized dog for companionship and light daily walks
• Families with children aged 8+ who can be taught to handle a fragile toy dog gently — this is not a rough-and-tumble breed for toddlers
• Mild allergy sufferers willing to commit to regular grooming (remember: no dog is truly hypoallergenic, and individual reactions vary)
• First-time dog owners who want an intelligent, trainable companion — the Poodle influence makes this mix more biddable than a pure Yorkie

This mix is not ideal for:

• Families with toddlers or very young children — a 5-pound dog can be seriously injured by a child who picks them up incorrectly or drops them
• People who are away from home 8+ hours daily without a dog walker or pet sitter — this mix is prone to separation distress
• Those unwilling to invest in regular grooming — neglected coats lead to painful matting and skin infections
• Off-leash hiking enthusiasts — Yorkie Poos have terrier prey drive and are vulnerable to predators (hawks, coyotes) in rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

How big will a Yorkie Poo get?

Most Yorkie Poos weigh between 4 and 15 pounds (1.8–6.8 kg) and stand 7 to 15 inches tall. Size depends primarily on whether the Poodle parent is a Toy or Miniature. Ask the breeder for exact parent weights to estimate your puppy's adult size.

Is a Yorkie Poo a good family dog?

Yorkie Poos can be excellent family dogs for households with older, respectful children. Their small size makes them fragile around toddlers, and rough handling can lead to injury or defensive snapping. They thrive in calm, attentive households.

Do Yorkie Poos bark a lot?

Many Yorkie Poos are vocal, inheriting the Yorkie's alert-barking instinct. Early training using positive reinforcement — rewarding quiet behavior and teaching a "quiet" cue — can manage excessive barking. Expect some barking at doorbells, passersby, and unfamiliar sounds.

How long do Yorkie Poos live?

The typical lifespan is 12–15 years, with some living to 16 or 17. Regular veterinary care, weight management, dental hygiene, and avoiding tracheal damage (use a harness, never a collar, for walks) all contribute to longevity.

Are Yorkie Poos easy to train?

They tend to be more trainable than pure Yorkshire Terriers thanks to Poodle intelligence, but individual variation is significant. Some pick up commands in days; others require weeks of patient repetition. Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes), use high-value treats, and never use punishment-based methods, which backfire with sensitive toy breeds.

Can Yorkie Poos be left alone?

Adult Yorkie Poos can typically handle 3–4 hours alone if properly conditioned. Longer periods increase the risk of separation anxiety, which manifests as barking, howling, destructive chewing, or house-soiling. Crate training, interactive toys, and gradual desensitization to departures help build independence.

What should I feed a Yorkie Poo?

Choose an AAFCO-approved small-breed or toy-breed formula with appropriately sized kibble. Adults typically eat ¼ to ¾ cup per day split into two meals, depending on weight and activity level. Puppies under 4 months should eat 3–4 small meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's body condition score and any health conditions.