Yorkshire Terrier vs Chihuahua
A side-by-side look at two breeds people often weigh against each other. Every line below is drawn from each breed's own care profile, so you can compare the honest version rather than the marketing one.
Key differences at a glance
- The Chihuahua tends to live longer - about 14-18 years, against 13-16 years for the Yorkshire Terrier.
- Both are toy dogs, close in size (under 3.2 kg and under 3 kg).
 Yorkshire Terrier The Yorkshire Terrier - universally known as the "Yorkie" - is a tiny dog with an outsized personality. |  Chihuahua The Chihuahua is the smallest recognised dog breed in the world - a tiny, big-eared, big-eyed companion with an... | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Typical weight | under 3.2 kg | under 3 kg |
| Lifespan | 13-16 years | 14-18 years |
| Temperament | Bold, confident, and lively. | Bold, alert, and intensely devoted to one person. |
| Exercise needs | Modest but real. | Modest. |
| Grooming | The coat determines the workload. | Smooth Chihuahua: weekly brush with a rubber curry; very low maintenance. |
| Good with kids | Better with older, gentle children. | Generally not. |
| Best suited for | Singles, couples, retirees wanting a small lively companion. | Singles, couples, retirees wanting a constant companion. |
Common questions
Does the Yorkshire Terrier or the Chihuahua live longer?
On published ranges the Chihuahua tends to live longer, roughly 14-18 years against 13-16 years for the Yorkshire Terrier. Any individual dog varies with genetics, weight and care.
Is the Yorkshire Terrier or the Chihuahua better with kids?
For the Yorkshire Terrier, our profile notes: Better with older, gentle children. For the Chihuahua: Generally not. With either breed, supervise young children and pick the individual dog's temperament over breed rules.
This is a starting point, not a verdict - the right breed depends on your home, time and experience. Read the full guides for Yorkshire Terrier and Chihuahua, or compare two other breeds.