10 Surprising Health Issues That Affect Yorkie Terriers You Need To Know

What Are Some Common Health Problems in Yorkie Terriers?

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as they are affectionately called, are beloved for their tiny size, big personalities, and luxurious long coats. These charming dogs are popular companions for people of all ages, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues. While Yorkies are generally healthy dogs, it’s crucial for owners to be aware of the common health problems they may encounter. Understanding these issues can help you provide the best possible care for your beloved Yorkie and ensure a long and happy life together.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 10 surprising health issues that commonly affect Yorkie Terriers. We’ll delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for each condition, empowering you with the knowledge you need to keep your furry friend healthy and thriving. Whether you’re a new Yorkie owner or a seasoned veteran, this information will prove invaluable in ensuring the well-being of your beloved companion.

Let’s dive into the world of Yorkie health and discover the common ailments that may affect these cherished companions.

1. Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common health issue in Yorkie Terriers, especially in puppies. It can occur due to various factors, including:

• Small size: Yorkies have small bodies and a high metabolism, which can lead to rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• Skipping meals: Missing meals or going long periods without eating can cause a drop in blood sugar.
• Stress: Stress, anxiety, or excitement can also contribute to low blood sugar levels.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia in Yorkies include:

• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Tremors
• Confusion
• Seizures

If you suspect your Yorkie is experiencing hypoglycemia, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Prompt treatment can help restore blood sugar levels to normal and prevent serious complications.

2. Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation, or a dislocated kneecap, is another common orthopedic issue in Yorkie Terriers. This occurs when the kneecap, or patella, slips out of its groove in the thighbone.

Here are some key factors contributing to patellar luxation in Yorkies:

• Small size and bone structure: Yorkies have small legs and thin kneecaps, making them more prone to dislocation.
• Genetics: Patellar luxation is often inherited in Yorkies, so breeding practices can influence the occurrence.
• Trauma: Accidents or injuries can also cause the kneecap to dislocate.

Symptoms of patellar luxation include:

• Limping or holding the leg up
• Pain or discomfort when walking
• Clicking sound in the knee joint
• Swelling around the knee

Treatment for patellar luxation can range from conservative measures like medication and physical therapy to surgical intervention in severe cases. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to minimize pain and improve mobility in affected Yorkies.

3. Dental Problems

Yorkies are prone to various dental issues, including:

• Gum disease: Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can damage teeth and gums.
• Malocclusion: Improper bite alignment (overbite or underbite) can cause dental problems and make chewing difficult.
• Broken teeth: Yorkies’ small teeth are relatively fragile and can break easily, especially during chewing or accidents.

Signs of dental problems in Yorkies include:

• Bad breath
• Red, swollen gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Drooling
• Difficulty chewing

Regular dental care is essential to prevent these problems. This includes brushing your Yorkie’s teeth daily, providing dental chews, and scheduling professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian.

4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are relatively common in Yorkies, especially females. These infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing irritation and inflammation.

Factors that can contribute to UTIs in Yorkies include:

• Short urethra: Female Yorkies have a shorter urethra than male Yorkies, making it easier for bacteria to enter.
• Crystals in urine: Some Yorkies are prone to developing crystals in their urine, which can irritate the urinary tract and make them more susceptible to infection.
• Obesity: Overweight Yorkies may be more prone to UTIs due to pressure on the bladder.

Symptoms of UTIs in Yorkies include:

• Frequent urination
• Painful urination
• Blood in the urine
• Straining to urinate
• Changes in urination habits

If you suspect your Yorkie has a UTI, it’s important to see your veterinarian right away. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, and early intervention can prevent complications.

5. Eye Problems

Yorkie Terriers are prone to certain eye problems, including:

• Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye.
• Cherry eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid, a small fleshy flap that helps protect the eye.
• Dry eye: A condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears, leading to dryness and irritation.

Signs of eye problems in Yorkies include:

• Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eyes
• Squinting or blinking excessively
• Cloudiness or opacity in the cornea
• Sensitivity to light

If you notice any eye problems in your Yorkie, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention immediately. Early treatment can often prevent permanent damage to the eye.

6. Liver Shunts

Liver shunts are a serious condition in which blood bypasses the liver, preventing it from filtering toxins and waste products. This can lead to various health problems.

Liver shunts are often congenital, meaning they are present at birth, and are more common in Yorkies than other breeds. The exact cause is unknown, but genetics is likely a factor.

Symptoms of liver shunts can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some Yorkies may not show any signs until they are older. However, common symptoms include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

If you suspect your Yorkie may have a liver shunt, it’s crucial to have them examined by a veterinarian. Diagnosis can be made through blood tests, ultrasound, and other imaging studies. Treatment options may include medication, surgery, or a combination of both.

7. Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is an orthopedic condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs when the blood supply to the head of the femur (thighbone) is disrupted, causing the bone to die and collapse. This condition is more common in small breeds like Yorkies.

While the exact cause of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetics and environmental factors. The disease typically affects young dogs, often between the ages of 4 and 8 months.

Symptoms of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease include:

• Limping
• Pain in the hip joint
• Stiffness
• Decreased range of motion in the hip

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Treatment options may include rest, pain medication, and surgery.

8. Allergies

Yorkies, like many other dog breeds, can develop allergies to various substances, such as:

• Food allergies: Common food allergens in dogs include beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat.
• Environmental allergens: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and grass are frequent environmental allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in dogs.
• Flea allergies: Flea bites can cause severe skin reactions in dogs with flea allergies.

Signs of allergies in Yorkies include:

• Itching
• Skin redness and irritation
• Hair loss
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Eye discharge
• Gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhea)

If you suspect your Yorkie has allergies, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. They can perform allergy testing to identify the triggers and recommend appropriate treatment, such as dietary changes, medication, or environmental control measures.

9. Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse is a condition that affects the trachea, or windpipe. In this condition, the rings of cartilage that support the trachea weaken, causing it to collapse, especially during inhalation. Tracheal collapse is more common in small breeds like Yorkies.

The exact cause of tracheal collapse is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetics and environmental factors. The condition can be exacerbated by factors like obesity, coughing, and stress.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include:

• A honking or goose-like cough
• Difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or excitement
• Wheezing or whistling sounds during breathing
• Blue discoloration of the gums and tongue

If you suspect your Yorkie has tracheal collapse, it’s crucial to see your veterinarian immediately. Treatment options may include medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to support the trachea.

10. Seizures

Seizures are a neurological condition that can affect Yorkie Terriers. They occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be caused by various factors, including:

• Idiopathic epilepsy: This is the most common type of seizure in dogs, and it’s often caused by a genetic predisposition.
• Brain tumors: Tumors in the brain can cause seizures by disrupting normal brain function.
• Head trauma: Injuries to the head can also lead to seizures.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can trigger seizures in dogs.

Symptoms of seizures in Yorkies include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Muscle tremors or spasms
• Biting or chewing
• Panting
• Drooling
• Incontinence
• Confusion or disorientation

If you witness a seizure in your Yorkie, it’s important to remain calm and observe the episode. Try to note the duration of the seizure and any other symptoms. Once the seizure is over, seek veterinary attention promptly.

Treatment for seizures may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or other therapies depending on the underlying cause. Regular veterinary care is crucial to manage seizures and ensure the best possible quality of life for your Yorkie.

A Table Summarizing Common Health Issues in Yorkie Terriers

Health Issue	Causes	Symptoms	Treatment
Hypoglycemia	Small size, skipping meals, stress	Lethargy, weakness, tremors, confusion, seizures	Immediate veterinary attention, restoring blood sugar levels
Patellar Luxation	Small size, genetics, trauma	Limping, pain, clicking sound, swelling	Medication, physical therapy, surgery (in severe cases)
Dental Problems	Plaque and tartar buildup, malocclusion, broken teeth	Bad breath, red gums, loose teeth, difficulty chewing	Regular dental care, dental chews, professional cleanings
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)	Short urethra, crystals in urine, obesity	Frequent urination, pain, blood in urine, straining	Antibiotics
Eye Problems	Conjunctivitis, cherry eye, dry eye	Redness, swelling, discharge, squinting, cloudiness	Veterinary attention, treatment varies depending on the issue
Liver Shunts	Congenital, genetics	Lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice	Medication, surgery
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease	Disrupted blood supply to the hip joint	Limping, hip pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion	Rest, pain medication, surgery
Allergies	Food, environment, fleas	Itching, skin irritation, hair loss, sneezing, coughing	Dietary changes, medication, environmental control
Tracheal Collapse	Weakening of tracheal cartilage	Honking cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing	Medication, weight management, surgery
Seizures	Idiopathic epilepsy, brain tumors, head trauma, hypoglycemia	Loss of consciousness, tremors, biting, panting	Medication, lifestyle changes, therapies

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs that my Yorkie might be sick?

Any changes in your Yorkie’s behavior or appearance could be a sign of illness. Be on the lookout for:

• Lethargy or inactivity
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Changes in urination or defecation habits
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Limping or pain when walking
• Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eyes, ears, or nose
• Weight loss or gain
• Changes in coat texture or shedding
• Unusual behavior such as aggression, restlessness, or anxiety

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How can I prevent health problems in my Yorkie?

Here are some tips for keeping your Yorkie healthy:

• Provide a balanced diet: Feed your Yorkie high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid table scraps and sugary treats, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can put extra strain on your Yorkie’s joints and organs, increasing the risk of various health issues.
• Exercise regularly: Daily exercise is important for maintaining your Yorkie’s physical and mental health.
• Provide regular veterinary care: Schedule annual checkups and vaccinations, and seek veterinary attention promptly if you notice any health concerns.
• Practice good hygiene: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly, bathe them as needed, and keep their ears and eyes clean.
• Prevent parasites: Use flea and tick prevention medication as recommended by your veterinarian.

What should I do if my Yorkie has a seizure?

If your Yorkie has a seizure, it’s important to remain calm and observe the episode. Move any objects that could potentially injure your dog. Do not try to restrain or put anything in your dog’s mouth during a seizure. Once the seizure is over, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How often should I brush my Yorkie’s teeth?

It’s recommended to brush your Yorkie’s teeth daily, but even brushing a few times a week is better than not brushing at all.

What are some good dental chews for Yorkies?

Look for dental chews that are specifically designed for small dogs and have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance. Some popular brands include Greenies, DentaLife, and Nylabones.

What are some tips for preventing UTIs in my Yorkie?

Here are some tips for preventing UTIs in your Yorkie:

• Encourage frequent urination: Take your Yorkie out to urinate regularly, especially after naps and meals.
• Provide fresh water: Make sure your Yorkie always has access to fresh water.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can put pressure on the bladder, making it more susceptible to infection.
• Avoid harsh cleansers: Use mild cleansers on your Yorkie’s genitals, especially if they are a female.
• Consider dietary changes: Some diets may be more prone to forming crystals in the urine. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.

Is it normal for my Yorkie to sneeze a lot?

Occasional sneezing is normal, but if your Yorkie is sneezing frequently or has other symptoms like eye discharge or coughing, it’s a good idea to see your veterinarian. These symptoms could indicate allergies, an upper respiratory infection, or other health concerns.