Yorkshire Terrier Health Issues: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Care

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to several health issues that can affect their quality of life. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common issue in Yorkies, especially in puppies under 4 months old.

Yorkshire Terriers can be born with or develop a heart murmur, which is a condition where the heart beats irregularly. This can be detected through a heart exam and may require medication or surgery.

Proper care and prevention can go a long way in keeping your Yorkie healthy. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and management.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to several health issues, including dental disease, which affects 80% of all dogs by age two. This is a common chronic problem in pets, and Yorkies are more likely than other dogs to have problems with their teeth.

Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints, even cutting a Yorkie's life span by one to three years.

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Some common eye problems in Yorkies include cataracts, which can cause blindness, and dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, which is a painful condition that can be treated with ointment. Other eye problems include cherry eye, corneal abrasions, conjunctivitis, corneal ulcerations, distichiasis, ectopic cilia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), retinal dysplasia, and chronic dry eye.

Heart disease is another common health issue in Yorkies, with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and heart valve disease being two conditions that can affect them. PDA occurs when a small blood vessel of the heart does not close properly, disrupting blood flow between the two parts.

Dental issues are a common problem in dogs, especially in small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers. In fact, 80% of all dogs are affected by dental disease by age two.

Yorkies are particularly prone to dental issues due to their small mouths and closely packed teeth, which can lead to tartar buildup and gum disease.

Regular dental care is essential to prevent or manage dental disease. This includes brushing your dog's teeth regularly and professional cleanings.

Symptoms of dental disease in Yorkies can include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or bleeding gums, and loose teeth.

Here are some common symptoms of dental disease in dogs:

If left untreated, dental disease can lead to serious health issues, including damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. In severe cases, it can even shorten a dog's lifespan by one to three years.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to eye problems that can be extremely painful and even cause blindness if not treated promptly. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Yorkies, where the lenses of their eyes become more opaque and cloudy.

Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine, but surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option.

Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is another common eye condition in Yorkies. The tear glands no longer produce enough tears to keep the eye moist, resulting in sore, itchy eyes and infections.

Symptoms of dry eye include a thick discharge, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a dull, dry appearance of the eye. If you notice any of these signs, call your veterinarian immediately.

Here are some common symptoms of dry eye in Yorkies:

If your Yorkie is diagnosed with dry eye, your veterinarian may prescribe ointment that needs to be applied for the rest of their life. Regular eye examinations are crucial to monitor for any signs of concern and prevent further complications.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to liver issues, particularly a condition called portosystemic shunt (PSS). PSS occurs when some of the blood supply bypasses the liver, depriving it of the necessary blood flow to function properly.

This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, which can cause a range of symptoms, including stunted growth, seizures, vomiting, and lethargy.

Symptoms of liver disease in Yorkies can also include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, loss of appetite, weight loss, and changes in behavior such as irritability and depression.

In addition to these symptoms, liver disease can also cause jaundice, blood in the urine or feces, and lethargy.

To diagnose liver disease, a veterinarian will typically perform a physical examination, liver function test, standard blood panel, and urinalysis to evaluate the health and function of the kidneys and liver.

In some cases, additional tests such as ultrasound and X-rays may be necessary to rule out cysts, stones, or cancer in the liver. A biopsy may also be required in severe cases.

Treatment for liver disease in Yorkies often involves managing symptoms and treating the underlying cause. This may include medications to control symptoms, antibiotics, fluid therapy, and surgery.

In some cases, a dietary change may be recommended to promote liver health, such as switching to a prescription food or a formula that supports liver function.

Here's a list of common symptoms of liver disease in Yorkies:

Heart issues are a serious concern for Yorkshire Terriers, and it's essential to be aware of the potential problems that can arise.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life. These conditions can be detected through regular check-ups and diagnostic testing.

A common heart issue in Yorkies is Patent Ductus Arteriosis, a condition where a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart doesn't close properly after birth. This can lead to too much blood being carried to the lungs, fluid build-up, and strain on the heart.

Symptoms of Patent Ductus Arteriosis may be mild or more severe, and can include coughing, fatigue during exercise, weight loss, shortness of breath, or weakness in the hind limbs.

Heart failure is a leading cause of death among Yorkshire Terriers in their golden years, often caused by weakening of a valve that allows blood to leak back into the heart. This can lead to strain on the heart and potentially life-threatening complications.

If your Yorkie has a heart murmur or outward signs suggesting heart problems, it's crucial to have them checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Regular check-ups and diagnostic testing can help detect heart issues early on, allowing for treatment and potentially prolonging your pet's life.

Here are some common signs of heart disease in Yorkies:

Early detection and treatment of heart disease can make a significant difference in your Yorkie's quality of life and longevity. Regular veterinary care, weight control, and a healthy diet can all help prevent or manage heart issues in Yorkies.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Yorkies that can cause severe pain and even paralysis.

Yorkies with IVDD may suddenly become unable or unwilling to jump up, go up stairs, or move around, and may even drag their back feet.

A hunched back, crying out in pain, or refusing to eat or go potty are all signs that your dog is likely in severe pain due to IVDD.

If you see these symptoms, don't wait - call an emergency clinic immediately.

Rest and medication may resolve less severe cases of IVDD, but in many cases involving paralysis, surgical removal of the ruptured discs is necessary.

Surgical removal of the ruptured discs is most effective when done within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Weight control is essential in preventing IVDD, as excess weight can put additional stress on your dog's back.

Using ramps or steps from puppyhood can also help prevent back problems by reducing the need for your dog to jump on and off furniture.

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Low Blood Sugar is a common condition in young, small-breed dogs, including Yorkshire Terriers. It can be caused by many conditions.

The physical signs of Low Blood Sugar include weakness, collapse, and seizures. These signs may occur after exercise or excitement.

If your dog shows any of these signs, such as shaking, stumbling, or loss of coordination, call your vet right away! They can provide immediate care and help prevent long-term damage.

Fortunately, once controlled at a young age, most dogs outgrow Low Blood Sugar.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to several health issues, but with knowledge and proper care, many can be managed. Heart failure is one of the most common causes of death for the breed.

Stomach issues are also common in Yorkies, with food sensitivities, allergies, pancreatitis, diarrhea, and more being potential problems. Adding pumpkin puree or sweet potatoes to their diet can help alleviate some of these issues.

Some common health issues in Yorkies include patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place, and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, a painful degenerative hip condition. Intervertebral disc disease can also occur, causing pressure on the spinal nerves.

Yorkies may also experience tracheal collapse, where the cartilage rings in the trachea are weak or formed incorrectly, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing.

Yorkshire Terriers are prone to several bone and joint issues that can cause pain and discomfort. One common condition is patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause your Yorkie to hop or skip while walking, and may require surgery in severe cases.

Maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint supplements can help manage patellar luxation. It's also essential to observe your Yorkie's behavior and watch for signs of lameness or stiffness.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease is another painful degenerative hip condition that affects young Yorkies. It causes the femoral head to become brittle and easily fracture, leading to pain and lameness in one or both rear legs. Surgery is often required to correct this condition.

Intervertebral disc disease can also affect Yorkies, causing pressure on spinal nerves and potentially leading to paralysis. Regular observation and veterinary check-ups can help identify these conditions early on.

Here are some common symptoms of bone and joint issues in Yorkies:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing these conditions and preventing long-term damage. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in keeping your Yorkie happy and healthy.

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Tracheal Collapse is a common health issue in Yorkshire Terriers. The trachea, or windpipe, is made up of rings of cartilage that provide flexibility and strength, but in Yorkies, these rings can be weak or formed incorrectly.

This can cause the trachea to collapse and become too narrow, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing. Most cases of tracheal collapse are mild and can be treated with medication.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include a honking cough, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance. These symptoms can be managed with medications and changes to your dog's lifestyle.

Using a harness instead of a collar can help avoid pressure on the windpipe, which can exacerbate the condition. Managing your dog's weight is also crucial in preventing and managing tracheal collapse.

In severe cases, surgery may be required to treat tracheal collapse. However, with proper care and management, many Yorkies can live happy and healthy lives despite this condition.

Here's a quick rundown of the symptoms and treatment options for tracheal collapse:

By being aware of the risks and taking steps to prevent and manage tracheal collapse, you can help keep your Yorkshire Terrier happy and healthy.

Yorkshire Terriers require regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health and catch potential issues early. These check-ups should be scheduled annually or bi-annually to assess overall health, detect abnormalities, and update vaccinations.

To prevent parasites, implement a year-round prevention plan that includes flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Regularly check your dog for signs of parasites and consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatments.

A proper diet and exercise routine are crucial for your Yorkie's health. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and keep her diet consistent. Don't give her people food, and exercise her regularly but don't overdo it at first.

Here are some additional tips to keep your Yorkie healthy:

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Yorkshire Terriers, causing or worsening joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

It's tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, but feeding her leftover people food and doggie treats can lead to obesity. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk. She'll feel better, and so will you!

To prevent obesity, monitor your dog's weight and adjust portion sizes as needed. Use a measuring cup or food scale to ensure accurate portion sizes.

A high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential for maintaining your dog's overall health. Look for foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

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Dogs normally begin to lose their primary (“puppy”) teeth at around 4 months of age.

Retained teeth are common in small breeds like Yorkies.

The retained puppy teeth trap food and hair between the normal adult tooth and the primary tooth.

Painful gums, bad breath, and adult tooth loss can result if untreated.

We’ll monitor his growing teeth and recommend removal of the puppy teeth if they are present alongside his adult teeth.

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Taking care of your Yorkshire Terrier is a big responsibility, but it's also incredibly rewarding. With regular veterinary check-ups, you can ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

To keep your Yorkie's diet on track, feed a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Look for foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Monitor their weight and adjust portion sizes as needed to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint and health issues.

Brushing your Yorkie's teeth regularly is crucial to prevent dental disease. They often have serious problems with their teeth, so you'll need to brush them at least three times a week! Daily brushing and regular trimming is also recommended to prevent mats and keep their long coat beautiful.

Yorkies are prone to certain health conditions, including tracheal collapse, dental disease, and luxating patella. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect these issues early on. To keep your Yorkie as healthy as possible, it's best to keep them up to date with vaccinations and parasite control treatment.

Exercise is also essential for your Yorkie's physical and mental well-being. Provide daily walks to promote cardiovascular health and prevent obesity. Engage your Yorkie in interactive play sessions with toys that challenge their intelligence and agility.

Here's a summary of some key care and lifestyle tips for your Yorkie:

By following these care and lifestyle tips, you can help your Yorkie live a long, happy, and healthy life.

As your dog ages, they may require a little extra support to stay healthy and happy. Supplements can be a great way to provide this support, but it's essential to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to ensure they're suitable for your dog's specific needs.

Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can promote joint health and mobility, reducing the risk of arthritis and joint issues. These supplements can be especially beneficial for older dogs who may be experiencing joint pain or stiffness.

Probiotics are another type of supplement that can support digestive health by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. They can be particularly beneficial during times of stress or dietary changes, which can help prevent digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for supporting skin and coat health, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health. Fish oil supplements are a popular source of omega-3s and can be a great addition to your dog's diet.

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Antioxidant supplements, such as vitamin E and C, can help protect cells from damage and support the immune system. This can be especially important for older dogs who may be more prone to illness or disease.

Here are some common supplements for dogs, grouped by their benefits:

As a Yorkie owner, you want to ensure your furry friend receives the best care possible. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of medical care, which can be a significant relief.

Pet insurance can be the difference between choosing the best care for your pet or simply what you can afford. Generally speaking, pre-existing conditions are not covered, so getting covered for your Yorkie when they are a puppy will offer you the most benefit.

Yorkies are prone to several serious health conditions, including oral inflammation, walking abnormality, and liver disorder. These conditions can develop and be costly to treat, with associated costs ranging from $1,330 to $4,380 over a lifetime.

Here are the estimated costs for these common health issues:

To manage your Yorkie's health, it's essential to stay on top of veterinary care and monitor their health closely. Regular check-ups and preventative care can help prevent or catch health issues early on, reducing the risk of costly treatments down the line.

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Prevention and diagnosis are key to maintaining your Yorkshire Terrier's health. Regular testing for bleeding disorders, such as Von Willebrand's disease, can help identify potential issues before they become serious.

To prevent parasites from infesting your Yorkie's body, it's essential to test for them on a regular basis. This includes checking for worms like hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms, as well as external parasites like fleas and ticks.

Some health conditions, like diabetes, can be challenging to identify and diagnose. However, with regular check-ups and testing, such as blood work and urinalysis, your veterinarian can help determine if your pup has diabetes or coexisting conditions.

Here are some common symptoms of diabetes in Yorkies:

By being proactive and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help prevent and diagnose potential health issues in your Yorkshire Terrier.

Bleeding Disorders can occur in dogs and range in severity from very mild to very severe. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result.

Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Yorkshire Terriers. This disease can lead to severe bleeding during surgery or after an injury.

We'll conduct diagnostic testing for blood clotting time or a specific DNA blood test for Von Willebrand’s disease or other similar disorders to check for this problem before we perform surgery.

Your Yorkie is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). This genetic condition affects the blood supply to the liver.

Portosystemic shunt is a congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver, leading to the accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream. This can cause a range of symptoms, including stunted growth, seizures, vomiting, and lethargy.

If your Yorkie develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, your veterinarian will test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver.

Surgical correction of the shunt and dietary management can improve the quality of life for dogs with this condition. Regular monitoring by a veterinarian is essential for managing this condition.

Here are some common symptoms of liver shunt in Yorkies:

Your veterinarian will need to conduct a physical examination and some medical tests to diagnose a liver disease or disorder. These may include a liver function test, standard blood panel, urinalysis, and blood tests to check proteins, enzymes, and other liver-produced substances.

To keep your Yorkie healthy, regular testing for parasites is a must. All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Yorkie's body, inside and out, and some can even be transmitted to you or a family member.

Fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms are just a few examples of parasites that can infest your Yorkie's skin and ears. These parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so it's essential to test for them on a regular basis.

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Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito are all ways that these parasites can get into your Yorkie's system. Some parasites can be transmitted through mosquito bites, so it's crucial to take preventative measures.

Preventive medication can help keep your Yorkie healthy by eliminating parasites before they become a problem. Regular testing and preventative medication can help ensure your Yorkie lives a long, healthy life.

Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pup and gather a medical history, especially if they develop chronic hypoglycemia. Tests that may be done include a complete blood count, blood glucose concentration, routine biochemistry, blood insulin concentration, and a urinalysis. An ultrasound may also be completed to rule out any tumor in the abdomen or pancreas.

If your Yorkie appears extremely disoriented to the point of being in a stupor or coma, immediate action is needed. Give your dog sugar water or an oral glucose concentration like Nutri-Cal or corn syrup. If you have no other choice, put some drops of sugar water underneath your dog’s tongue.

A high-quality diet is crucial for Yorkshire Terriers because of their risk of hypoglycemia. Feeding small, frequent meals and ensuring your dog has a consistent source of glucose can help prevent hypoglycemia.

In emergencies, providing a sugar source, such as honey or syrup, can quickly raise blood sugar levels. To diagnose your Yorkie with diabetes, your veterinarian will need to do a physical examination and look at the clinical science. Along with that, they will order blood work and a urinalysis.

These tests will help determine if your pup has diabetes as well as any coexisting conditions. A liver function test and standard blood panel will likely be done to diagnose a liver disease or disorder.

Here are some common symptoms of liver disease in Yorkies:

To prevent inherited genetic diseases, your Yorkie should undergo a patella evaluation, which checks for kneecap issues.

A patella evaluation is crucial because Yorkies are prone to kneecap problems.

You can also consider DNA testing, but it's not yet available for all medical concerns or conditions.

DNA testing can offer more information about your Yorkie's health, but it's essential to understand its limitations.

Yorkshire Terriers typically live between 12 to 15 years with proper care.

Their lifespan is influenced by genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care.

With attentive care and regular veterinary visits, many Yorkies enjoy healthy, long lives.

Yorkies are considered senior dogs between seven and eight years old.

A Yorkie between eight and ten years old is a senior and needs senior dog food, as well as possible supplements and activity modification to accommodate their changing body and needs.

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Emergency situations can arise suddenly, and it's essential to know what to look out for in your Yorkshire Terrier. If you notice any of the following signs, seek medical care immediately: scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge; inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine; cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes; drinks and urinates more, eats more, potbelly, poor haircoat; slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizures after eating; coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest; increased hunger and thirst, weight loss; leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, jump, or "bunny hopping".

Some of these signs can be indicative of serious health issues, such as heart failure, which is one of the most common causes of death in Yorkshire Terriers. By being aware of these potential warning signs, you can take prompt action to get your dog the medical attention they need.

If your Yorkshire Terrier's quality of life begins to decline due to age or illness, it's essential to have an open and honest conversation with your veterinarian to understand your dog's condition, treatment options, and overall prognosis.

As you navigate the difficult decision of saying goodbye to your Yorkshire Terrier, it's essential to understand that their quality of life should be the top priority. If your dog's daily comfort, mobility, appetite, and overall enjoyment of life are declining, it may be time to consider euthanasia.

Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial to understand your dog's condition, treatment options, and overall prognosis. They can provide professional guidance to help you make an informed decision.

If your dog experiences more bad days than good ones, or if they are no longer interested in activities they once enjoyed, it might be time to consider euthanasia. This can be a challenging decision, but it's often the kindest option to prevent further suffering.

In-home euthanasia is a popular option for many owners, providing a peaceful and familiar environment for their pet's final moments. This allows your Yorkshire Terrier to be surrounded by loved ones in the comfort of their home, making the process as stress-free as possible.

Coping with the loss of a pet is emotionally challenging, and it's essential to reach out to friends, family, or pet loss support groups for help. Remember, it's okay to seek help and share your feelings with others who understand what you're going through.

To help you navigate this difficult time, here are some things to keep in mind:

If you're facing this difficult decision, compassionate euthanasia providers can help guide you through the process with dignity and care.

If you notice your Yorkshire Terrier exhibiting any of the following signs, seek medical care immediately. These symptoms can be indicative of serious health issues that require prompt attention.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all warning signs that your dog may be experiencing a painful ear infection.

Inability or straining to urinate, discolored urine, or increased thirst and urination can be symptoms of a urinary tract infection or other kidney-related issues.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can be a sign of an eye infection or other vision problems.

Drinks and urinates more, eats more, develops a potbelly, and has a poor haircoat can be indicative of Cushing's disease or other hormonal imbalances.

Slow or stunted growth, seizures after eating, coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest, increased hunger and thirst, weight loss, and leg stiffness can all be signs of various health issues that require medical attention.

Here is a list of emergency signs to watch out for: