Into America
The Yorkie began being shown in England under the breed name of the Broken Haired Scotch Terrier in 1861. However, by 1874, the breed was given the official name of the Yorkshire Terrier.In 1872, this dog breed slowly began making its way into America. By 1878, the AKC officially registered the breed.
Popularity
It was during the Victorian Era that this dog changed over from a Hunting/ Ratting dog into a Companion dog.Royalty and the upper class societies in England began to embrace the breed for its unique appearance and small structure. During this time period, small dogs were considered to be of great value. As the breed became much sought after in England, it popularity carried over into America.
Smokey
During the 1940’s the popularity of the Yorkshire Terrier began to drop. Smoky was a famous dog from World War II. She was considered quite a hero as he served with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific. Her notable service brought this breed back into the mainstream. American William Wynne found Smoky in a shell hole near the Japanese lines in New Guinea.She did not understand commands given in English or Japanese. She became part of the troop, going on over 150 air raids and 12 sea missions. Her courage was great and she is hailed for surviving a treacherous typhoon at Okinawa.
While serving with her American troops, she quickly learned amusing tricks which not only entertained the troops...but also enabled her to help the Signal Corps by carrying a telegraph wire through a 70-foot, eight-inch pipe.
Smokey also jumped from a 30-foot tower with a parachute made just for her. After the War, Smokey spent her time visiting veterans' hospitals with her owner, William Wynne, the man who found her.
The Yorkshire Terrier Creates an Offshoot
In 1984 the Yorkshire Terrier is credited with the formation of a new dog breed: The Biewer Terrier which was at first called the Biewer Yorkshire Terrier. Born to two Yorkies, but very rare in color, this led to a 30 year journey to AKC acceptance for the Biewer.| << PREVIOUS | NEXT >> |