Again I apologize if that offended anyone, but, on a more serious note...
Actually, in the case of the Yorkshire and all Terrier Breeds, the Tail is Docked for a very good reason. Terriers are Varminteers, and if let do what they were intended to, will follow the Varmint into Burrows. Frequently, the Dogs would be so vigorous about it, that they would need assistance in getting out of the hole.
Thusly, abbreviating their Tails enhanced their ability to back up, AND OR, if necessary, a short stocky stump was very handy for the Hunter to take hold of, and pull the Dog back out of the hole.
Original lengths for most Terrier Breeds were in the 3-4" lengths.
A convenient handful.
