Chihuahua (Long Coat) vs Yorkshire Terrier

Choosing between Chihuahua (Long Coat) and Yorkshire Terrier? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Yorkshire Terrier is the higher-energy of the two, while Chihuahua (Long Coat) is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Chihuahua (Long Coat) vs Yorkshire Terrier: full comparison

TraitChihuahua (Long Coat)Yorkshire Terrier
SizeVery SmallVery Small
Energy levelMediumHigh
TrainabilityMediumMedium
FriendlinessMediumMedium
Good with childrenLowLow
Grooming needsHighVery High
SheddingHighLow
BarkingVery HighVery High
ProtectivenessHighHigh
AdaptabilityHighHigh
Typical lifespan15 years14 years
HypoallergenicNoYes

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) is a toy-sized companion that happily fits into even the smallest apartment and is easy to carry, travel with and manage indoors. By comparison, the Yorkshire Terrier is a toy-sized companion that happily fits into even the smallest apartment and is easy to carry, travel with and manage indoors. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) needs a solid walk or two a day plus some active play. The Yorkshire Terrier needs a good deal of daily exercise — long walks, running or vigorous play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) needs frequent grooming and benefits from professional trims and leaves a noticeable amount of hair on furniture and clothing. The Yorkshire Terrier is high-maintenance to groom, needing regular professional grooming and daily brushing and drops very little hair. The Yorkshire Terrier is also considered hypoallergenic, an advantage for allergy sufferers. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Chihuahua (Long Coat) picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, barks a great deal, which is worth considering with neighbors close by and can share a home with children given careful, supervised introductions. The Yorkshire Terrier picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, barks a great deal, which is worth considering with neighbors close by and can share a home with children given careful, supervised introductions. On guarding instinct, Chihuahua (Long Coat) is naturally watchful and protective of its family and home, whereas Yorkshire Terrier is naturally watchful and protective of its family and home.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Chihuahua (Long Coat) if you want a calmer, lower-energy companion, you prefer lower grooming upkeep, or you want a longer-lived breed.

Choose the Yorkshire Terrier if you need a hypoallergenic, low-dander coat, you want less shedding around the home, or you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Chihuahua (Long Coat) or the Yorkshire Terrier better for families with children?
Both the Chihuahua (Long Coat) and the Yorkshire Terrier are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Chihuahua (Long Coat) or the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Chihuahua (Long Coat) sheds more than the Yorkshire Terrier. If shedding is a concern, the Yorkshire Terrier is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Chihuahua (Long Coat) or the Yorkshire Terrier?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Chihuahua (Long Coat) or Yorkshire Terrier bigger?
Chihuahua (Long Coat) and Yorkshire Terrier are a similar size (Very Small).
Which barks more, Chihuahua (Long Coat) or Yorkshire Terrier?
Both bark a similar amount (very high).
Which is better for apartment living, Chihuahua (Long Coat) or Yorkshire Terrier?
For apartment or apartment living, Chihuahua (Long Coat) has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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