ChihuahuaVSYorkshire Terrier

The Chihuahua is known for being sassy, charming, graceful, while the Yorkshire Terrier is typically described as spirited, bold, affectionate. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 4/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

The Chihuahua is a small breed standing 15–23 cm (6–9 in) tall and weighing 1–3 kg (2–7 lbs). In comparison, the Yorkshire Terrier is a small breed at 18–23 cm (7–9 in) and 2–3 kg (4–7 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The Chihuahua has a short coat available in fawn, black, white, chocolate, cream, blue, while the Yorkshire Terrier sports a long coat in blue and tan, black and gold. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Chihuahua has moderate energy (3/5) with low exercise needs (2/5). The Yorkshire Terrier has moderate energy (3/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

Both breeds have similar exercise requirements, so your daily activity routine won't change much regardless of which you choose. Plan for regular walks and play sessions to keep either breed content.

When it comes to shedding, the Chihuahua drops more fur with a shedding level of 2/5, while the Yorkshire Terrier is lighter at 1/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Yorkshire Terrier will be easier to live with.

Grooming-wise, the Yorkshire Terrier needs more upkeep (5/5) than the Chihuahua (1/5). The Yorkshire Terrier's long coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Chihuahua and $500 for the Yorkshire Terrier. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Chihuahua has a lifespan of 14–18 years, while the Yorkshire Terrier lives 13–16 years. The Chihuahua tends to live longer on average.

Both breeds score 3/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Chihuahua include patellar luxation, heart disease, hydrocephalus, hypoglycemia. The Yorkshire Terrier is prone to patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, tracheal collapse, dental disease. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $450 for the Chihuahua and $450 for the Yorkshire Terrier. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the Yorkshire Terrier, which scores 3/5 for trainability. The Chihuahua's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

The Yorkshire Terrier ranks higher in intelligence (4/5 vs 3/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

The Yorkshire Terrier is the more intelligent of the two, scoring 4/5 to the Chihuahua's 3/5. This means the Yorkshire Terrier generally picks up new commands faster and is better at figuring things out independently. On the flip side, their sharp mind needs regular engagement through puzzle toys, training games, and varied activities to prevent behavioral issues.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in instinctive intelligence. Each breed is naturally talented at the tasks they were originally bred for.

The Yorkshire Terrier's higher intelligence translates directly into better trainability (3/5 vs 2/5), making them both the quicker learner and the easier breed to train. This combination is ideal for owners who want a responsive, obedient companion.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

The Yorkshire Terrier edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 2/5 with children versus the Chihuahua's 1/5. The Yorkshire Terrier's spirited temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

The Yorkshire Terrier is more welcoming to strangers (3/5), while the Chihuahua tends to be more reserved (2/5). If you frequently have guests, the Yorkshire Terrier's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Chihuahua ranges from $400–$1,500, while a Yorkshire Terrier typically costs $800–$3,000. The Yorkshire Terrier is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $790 for the Chihuahua and $1,250 for the Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $20 for the Chihuahua and $25 for the Yorkshire Terrier. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.