I can confirm that over here in England variation in size is normal. The smaller ones are sometimes sought after and some breeders used to use rather unethical methods to keep them small. I heard that during the first half of the last century, unscrupulous breeders gave them gin to stunt their growth! But they were bred from larger terriers in Scotland, like the Skye, Waterside, Dandie Dinmont etc. So given their origins it would be unusual if many Yorkies werent smaller. There is a feeling over here that the tiny ones are good for a one dog no kids household, possibly a mature couple, but for a family pet youre better off with the larger ones.
Over here it is pretty much the same with Jack Russells. They vary quite widely in size and stature. |