Dog breed comparison
Pomeranian vs Yorkshire Terrier
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Pomeranian | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 7 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder | 8 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 3 to 7 pounds | 4 to 6 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 16 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Energy
The Yorkshire Terrier has more energy than the Pomeranian.
Exercise needs
The Yorkshire Terrier needs more exercise than the Pomeranian.
Shedding
The Pomeranian sheds more than the Yorkshire Terrier.
Barking
The Pomeranian barks more than the Yorkshire Terrier.
Easy to train
The Pomeranian is easier to train than the Yorkshire Terrier.
Intelligence
The Pomeranian is quicker to learn than the Yorkshire Terrier.
Which to choose
Pomeranian or Yorkshire Terrier?
Choose the Pomeranian if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
Choose the Yorkshire Terrier if…
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that barks less
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Pomeranian or the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Pomeranian is generally easier to train than the Yorkshire Terrier. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Pomeranian or the Yorkshire Terrier?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less than the Pomeranian. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
