Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier
Why this comparison exists: Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier are both toy breeds in a similar size class — a genuine either/or choice buyers actually make.
The short answer: It depends on your priorities: Chihuahua for grooming need. Read the breakdown below, then match it to your home and routine.
Head-to-head
| Chihuahua | Yorkshire Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Toy | Toy |
| Origin | Mexico | England |
| Weight | 1–3 kg | 2–3 kg |
| Height | 15–23 cm | 18–20 cm |
| Lifespan | 14–17 yrs | 11–16 yrs |
| Coat | short or long smooth | long silky hypoallergenic |
| Trait ratings (our 1–5 editorial scoring) | ||
| Shedding | 2/5 | 1/5 ▲ |
| Grooming need | 2/5 ▲ | 5/5 |
| Exercise need | 1/5 ▲ | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Kid friendly | 1/5 | 2/5 ▲ |
| Apartment suitable | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Barking tendency | 5/5 | 4/5 ▲ |
| Monthly cost (est.) | $60–120 | $70–150 |
Key differences that actually matter:
- Grooming need: Chihuahua 2/5 vs Yorkshire Terrier 5/5 — a real, noticeable gap.
- Lifespan: Chihuahua 14–17 yrs vs Yorkshire Terrier 11–16 yrs. See the dog lifespan overview for how each compares to the all-breed average.
Choose Chihuahua if
- you want less grooming need (2/5 vs 5/5)
Choose Yorkshire Terrier if
- you simply prefer its look and temperament overall
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for families, Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier?
For kid-friendliness: Chihuahua scores 1/5, Yorkshire Terrier scores 2/5. Yorkshire Terrier has the edge.
Which sheds more, Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier?
Chihuahua scores 2/5 for shedding vs Yorkshire Terrier at 1/5. Chihuahua sheds noticeably more.
Which is easier to train, Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier?
Chihuahua: 3/5, Yorkshire Terrier: 3/5. Both train similarly.
Which costs more to keep, Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier?
Estimated $60–$120/mo for the Chihuahua vs $70–$150/mo for the Yorkshire Terrier. Larger, heavier-groomed breeds cost more.
Breed profiles
Chihuahua full profile
Yorkshire Terrier full profile
More comparisons
More comparisons coming soon.
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Chihuahua full profile
Yorkshire Terrier full profile
More comparisons
More comparisons coming soon.
Not sure yet?
Take the breed selector quiz
Trait ratings are our editorial scoring, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough estimates and vary by location. Health notes are general guidance — consult your veterinarian.