Parti History

One of the most delightful characteristics of Parti Yorkies is their individuality. Some have predominantly white coats with small patches of black and tan, while others have bold markings across their faces and bodies. Their coats may also change in shade as they mature, making it especially enjoyable to watch a Parti puppy grow into a beautiful adult Yorkshire Terrier. No two Parti Yorkies look exactly alike, and that is part of their charm! 

A small black and white Yorkshire Terrier puppy lying on a speckled stone surface in front of a wooden plank wall, with a green plant leaf in the upper left corner and a 'Yorkiehouse Est 1988' watermark at the bottom left.

What Is a Parti Yorkie?

The Parti Yorkshire Terrier is a beautiful color variation of the purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Unlike the traditional Yorkie, which is known for its classic blue-and-tan coloring, Parti Yorkies feature striking combinations of white, black, and tan.

Each Parti Yorkie has its own unique coat pattern, making every puppy special. Although their coloring may look different, they share the same intelligence, affectionate personality, and playful nature that Yorkshire Terriers are known for.

A small fluffy puppy with black, white, and tan fur sitting on a white faux-fur rug. The Yorkie House logo is overlaid at the bottom center.

The History of a Parti Yorkie

Parti coloring has existed in Yorkshire Terrier bloodlines for generations. Historically, breeders focused on the traditional blue-and-tan coat recognized by the breed standard, so Yorkies with white markings were less commonly seen.

Over time, a better understanding of genetics helped explain how Parti coloring could naturally appear in purebred Yorkshire Terriers.

Today, Parti Yorkies are admired for their distinctive appearance while remaining part of the Yorkshire Terrier breed.

A small fluffy dog with black, white, and tan fur sits on a speckled gray floor in front of a wood-paneled wall. A script watermark reading 'Yorkiehouse Est.

What Causes Parti Coloring?

Parti coloring is inherited through genetics. The white spotting pattern is generally associated with recessive genetic variations that can be carried by traditionally colored Yorkshire Terriers.

When both parents carry the appropriate genetic variation, they can produce Parti-colored puppies, even if neither parent displays the pattern.

This is one of the fascinating reasons why Parti Yorkies can have such different and beautiful markings.

A small tri-color puppy with black, white, and tan fur sits on a white fluffy rug while a human hand gently holds its head. The text 'Yorkiehouse Est.

Are Parti Yorkies Purebred?

Yes! Parti Yorkies can be be purebred Yorkshire Terriers. All of YorkieHouse Parti puppies are purebred.

Their coloring does not make them a separate breed or a mixed breed. Parti-colored Yorkshire Terriers can be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) when they meet the organization's registration requirements.

Although Parti coloring falls outside the traditional AKC conformation show standard, these Yorkies are every bit as much Yorkshire Terriers as their traditionally colored counterparts.