Although they are special colour variants of the Terrier, both dogs must retain the typical build of a small, compact and elegant terrier. Let us look at how to recognise a beautiful, correctly built chocolate and black Terrier (black yorkie).
The chocolate Terrier (chocolate yorkie)
Its coat is a uniform, deep chocolate colour, from a milk-chocolate to a dark-chocolate shade. It may have gold markings, but pure chocolates are highly prized. The nose and pads are exclusively chocolate brown, since a black nose is genetically impossible with this colour. The eyes are medium-sized, amber or hazel, with brown eyelid rims. The coat is silky, glossy and straight.
The black Terrier
Its coat is completely black, so-called jet black, without any grey, silver or blue. The black must stay from root to tip and for life. The nose and pads are completely black, the eyes dark brown to black, with a distinct black eyelid rim. The coat is exceptionally dense, heavy, shining and silky, with a high lustre.
The shared build of both
Regardless of colour, both must retain the characteristic body structure. The ideal weight ranges between 1.8 and 2.8 kilograms, up to about 3 kilograms at most. The body is compact and harmonious, the topline straight, the head carriage proud. It is precisely this combination of correct build and pure colour that makes a beautiful coloured Terrier.
Literature and sources
Schmutz, S. M., research on the genetics of dog coat colour.
Kennel Club of Slovenia (KZS) and FCI breed standards for the Terrier.
This text is based on current professional knowledge and on our kennel's experience. It does not replace consultation with a veterinarian or cynologist.
