Yorkshire Terrier

Very little. Yorkies grow hair rather than a double coat, so it lengthens steadily and individual strands drop out gradually instead of in seasonal waves. You will find far less on the sofa than with a Labrador. That does not make them allergy proof, because allergens come from skin and saliva too, but many people with mild allergies cope well. Regular brushing still matters, since loose hair tangles into the coat rather than falling away.

That is normal. Yorkie puppies are born mostly black with tan points, and the black gradually clears to steel blue while the tan brightens to gold. The change often starts around six months and can take until two or three years to finish. Some dogs end up darker than others, and a short pet clip can make the shift look faster or patchier. Nothing is wrong with a slow-changing puppy.

They can love children, but toddlers and Yorkies are a risky mix. A dog weighing 2 to 3 kg can break a leg if dropped, sat on or squeezed, and a frightened Yorkie may snap. Homes with children over about seven who can sit on the floor to hold the dog are a better fit. Whatever the age, supervise play and give the dog a quiet place to retreat to.

Teacup is a sales label, not a recognized size or variety. It usually describes dogs bred or selected to be well under the standard, sometimes below 1.5 kg as adults. Very tiny dogs tend to have more trouble with low blood sugar, fragile bones, dental crowding and other health problems. If you are offered a teacup puppy, ask to see both parents, their weights and health checks, and be wary of a premium price for smallness.

Choose based on your time. A full-length coat looks spectacular but needs daily brushing, frequent baths and often wrapping to stop breakage. Most pet owners pick a puppy cut, a short even trim of around 2 to 4 cm, done every six to eight weeks. It is easier to keep clean, dries quickly after walks and makes it simpler to spot skin problems or grass seeds.