Yorkshire Terriers in Australia: Popular, Available, High-Maintenance

Yes, Yorkshire Terriers are readily available in Australia and rank among the top 20 most popular breeds (ANKC registration data).

What to Know

• Source: Registered breeders (ANKC/state canine councils), rescue orgs (Yorkie Rescue Australia), occasionally pet shops (regulated).
• Cost: $3,000–$6,000+ from ethical breeders (health-tested parents).
• Grooming: Daily brushing; professional trim every 6–8 weeks. Non-shedding but high-maintenance coat.
• Health: Prone to luxating patella, tracheal collapse, dental crowding, portosystemic shunt, Legg-Calvé-Perthes. Buy from breeders screening for these.
• Temperament: Bold, vocal, loyal, terrier tenacity. Not ideal for toddlers; great for singles/seniors/apartments.
• Biosecurity: Importing a Yorkie requires 180-day prep, 10-day post-entry quarantine (Mickleham, VIC).

Adopt or shop responsibly; avoid puppy farms and online scams.