Want to keep your Yorkie looking chic with a fresh new haircut? Here are some ways to keep them looking up to snuff, no matter how long, flowing, or neatly trimmed their fur is.
Yorkies have special hair—in fact, it somewhat resembles human hair in that it grows long and fine in a single coat. This means they don’t shed nearly as much as other breeds, but they do need to go to the groomer for regular trims.
Though the amount of maintenance for these dogs’ coats can be time-consuming, it also gives you a chance to explore various hairstyle options and perhaps try grooming your dog at home if you’re feeling adventurous.
To help you out we’ve gathered together a bevy of adorable grooming ideas for you—pick the one that you think best complements your unique, wonderful dog and you’re both bound to be delighted.
Top Yorkie Hairstyles
1. Schnauzer Trim
- Via Flickr/Mark Edwards
As the name implies, this canine style is inspired by the Schnauzer!
To get this look, trim your pup’s mustache and ears a little longer, leaving a small skirt of hair on the bottom third of the body and legs. Then you’ll want to clip the upper part of the body to a half inch with a little “bib” left on their chest.
Dignified yet adorable—this option is ideal for the refined Yorkie in your life.
2. Teddy Bear Cut
- Via Pixabay
This cut is perfect for Yorkies, considering they’re such cuddly and affectionate dogs. And just like with your favorite stuffed animal, you won’t be able to resist giving your dog a squeeze when they’re rockin’ this style.
For this look, fur is essentially trimmed to the same length all over the body, except on the face where the hairs are cut in a circular fashion that gives the impression of a sweet teddy bear. Time to cuddle!
3. Puppy Cut
- Via Flickr/choco@Nerima
The Puppy Cut is popular for this breed, probably because it embraces the sweet and playful spirit that so many Yorkies possess.
For this cut keep the hair at around one or two inches all over the body, including the head, ears, and legs. Easy to maintain (and basically tangle-free!), this style is so popular because it gives an angelic and lovely look, without being too high maintenance.
Of course, you’ll have to keep on top of the trims, but this is easy enough to master on your own so long as you invest in a quality pair of clippers and shears.
4. Show Cut
- Via Flickr/Petful
Feeling fancy? Have lots of extra time on your hands for grooming? Then this could be the style for you!
The Yorkie Show Cut is elegant with long, luxurious locks and a top knot. This is the style that the breed generally sports at dog shows sponsored by the American Kennel Club, which is why it’s considered the quintessential Yorkie cut.
Though it isn’t very common except for in show dogs because it takes so much effort to maintain. Just know that you’re going to spend a lot of time brushing, washing their coats, and getting those tangles out.
5. Kennel Cut
- Via Pixabay
This cut is another popular option, especially when those summer months roll around. This haircut consists of very short hair on the body, with the hair on the legs, tail, and head kept just a smidge longer.
The mustache and ears are trimmed to about a half inch, and the paws are trimmed up so they look neat and clean (and ready to run in the sun!).
Regardless of the cut you choose for your Yorkie, we know that their incredible coif is part of what makes this breed so much fun. It’s up to you to decide what style best suits their personality, and what’s the best match for your lifestyle, family, and wallet.
Does your dog dislike being brushed?
Many dogs love to be brushed, but not all do. And unless they got a lot of practice with it as puppies, they may be suspicious when you first introduce them to the brush. Approaching brushing slowly, with positive, non-threatening interactions, is more likely to result in a smoother grooming routine. Here’s how to get your dog to accept—and perhaps even enjoy—brushing:
- Before you even set brush to fur, let your pup make friends with the tool. Start by placing the brush on the ground and throwing high-value treats around and on top of it, encouraging your dog to investigate the funny new object at their speed.
- The simple act of reaching for your dog with the brush can be scary for some dogs. Next, work on reaching out with the brush to very lightly touch your dog’s body with the edge of the bristles. Each time you reach out with the brush, immediately follow it with a high-value treat. Be sure to take extra care (and time, if needed) when brushing around the ears, legs, and genitals.
- When your dog is comfortable with step 2, move on to brushing the fur. Start lightly, alternating each stroke with a reward. Over time, work your way up to pressing more firmly and brushing for several strokes in a row.