Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Papillon (2–5 kg, 14–16 years) and the Yorkshire Terrier (2–3 kg, 13–16 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Both breeds have similar energy demands — Papillon tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.
On trainability, the Papillon is markedly easier to train — picks up cues fast, stays focused. The Yorkshire Terrier is more independent and rewards patience over volume.
Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Yorkshire Terrier needs significantly more brushing, washing and coat care. Factor in €30–€80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer if you don't do it yourself.
For allergy sufferers, the Yorkshire Terrier is the lower-shed, more hypoallergenic option.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
 Papillon |
 Yorkshire Terrier |
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Toy | Toy |
| Origin | France / Belgium | Yorkshire, England |
| Weight | 2–5 kg | 2–3 kg |
| Height | 20–28 cm | 20–23 cm |
| Lifespan | 14–16 years | 13–16 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
PapillonFriendly, alert, lively, smart. Papillons are surprisingly bold and athletic for their size and excellent at training games.
30–45 minutes a day plus mental work.
Long silky single coat — light shedding. Brush 2–3× weekly. Ear feathering needs care.
Patellar luxation. Progressive retinal atrophy (DNA test). Dental disease. Open fontanel (puppies). Generally healthy and long-lived.
Full Papillon profile →
Yorkshire TerrierConfident, brave, affectionate, sometimes feisty. Yorkies often think they're the size of a German Shepherd and will challenge larger dogs. Bond very closely with one person. Can be yappy without training.
30–45 minutes a day plus indoor play. Two short walks plus mental work is enough. Yorkies are easy to over-exercise — their joints are tiny.
Daily brushing if kept in a long coat. Most owners opt for a "puppy cut" every 6–8 weeks. Hair grows continuously and doesn't shed (good for allergies). Tear staining around eyes is common — wipe daily.
Tracheal collapse (use a harness, never a collar). Patellar luxation. Liver shunts (puppy screen test). Dental disease (small mouths, crowded teeth — daily brushing essential). Hypoglycaemia in young puppies.
Full Yorkshire Terrier profile →Apartment-friendly families, owners who enjoy training.
Apartment-dwellers, allergy-sensitive owners, retirees, anyone wanting a long-lived pocket-sized companion.
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