Yorkie Communication: What Their Ears Tell You

Why Do Yorkies Have Such Small Ears?

Yorkies are known for their small, erect ears, which are a defining characteristic of the breed. Their ears are often described as being “bat-like” or “rosebud-shaped,” and they can vary slightly in size and shape depending on the individual dog. The size of a Yorkie’s ears is primarily determined by genetics, and it’s a trait that has been selectively bred for over centuries.

One of the main reasons for the small ear size is the breed’s miniature stature. Yorkies are small dogs, and their ears have been selectively bred to be proportional to their overall body size. As a result, they have proportionally smaller ears than larger breeds.

Another reason for the small ear size is the breed’s temperament. Yorkies are known for being playful, energetic, and affectionate dogs. Their small ears are thought to be a contributing factor to their charming personality. Their ears are less likely to be damaged during playtime or when they are being affectionate with their owners.

However, it’s important to note that there are a few factors that can influence the size and shape of a Yorkie’s ears. These factors include:

• Genetics: The size and shape of a Yorkie’s ears are primarily determined by genetics. Some lines of Yorkies have naturally smaller ears than others.
• Nutrition: A healthy diet can contribute to overall growth and development, including the size and shape of a Yorkie’s ears. A well-balanced diet will provide the necessary nutrients for proper ear development.
• Health: Some health conditions, such as ear infections, can affect the size and shape of a Yorkie’s ears. It’s important to monitor your Yorkie’s ears for any signs of infection and seek veterinary care if necessary.

Overall, the small size of a Yorkie’s ears is a result of selective breeding for the breed’s miniature stature and temperament. It’s a charming feature that is part of what makes Yorkies such popular pets.

What Does It Mean If My Yorkie’s Ears Are Droopy?

While Yorkies are known for their upright, “bat-like” ears, sometimes you might notice your Yorkie’s ears are drooping. This can be a cause for concern, as it could indicate a variety of issues, both physical and behavioral.

Let’s break down some possible reasons for drooping ears in Yorkies:

• Ear Infections: One of the most common reasons for drooping ears in dogs is an ear infection. The presence of inflammation or infection in the ear canal can cause pain and discomfort, making the dog hold its ears down.
• Allergies: Allergies can also lead to ear irritation and inflammation, resulting in drooping ears. Yorkies can be allergic to various things, including pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.
• Trauma: An injury to the ear, such as a bite or a scratch, can cause pain and discomfort, making the dog hold its ear down.
• Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can infest the ear canal, causing inflammation, itching, and discomfort, leading to drooping ears.
• Foreign Objects: If a foreign object gets stuck in the ear canal, it can cause pain and discomfort, leading to drooping ears.

If your Yorkie’s ears are drooping, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian. They can examine your dog’s ears and determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure your Yorkie’s comfort.

In some cases, drooping ears in Yorkies can also be a sign of behavioral issues. If your Yorkie is feeling stressed, anxious, or submissive, they might hold their ears back. However, it’s important to note that this is usually accompanied by other behavioral cues, such as tail tucking and avoiding eye contact.

Observing your Yorkie’s overall behavior is crucial in determining the cause of drooping ears. If you notice any other unusual symptoms, such as excessive scratching, head shaking, or discharge from the ears, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.

What Does It Mean If My Yorkie Is Constantly Shaking His Head?

Yorkies are known for their lively personalities and playful nature, but frequent head shaking can be a sign of something more than just exuberant energy. It’s important to pay attention to your Yorkie’s head-shaking behavior as it can signal various issues, ranging from minor irritations to serious conditions. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes:

• Ear Infections: As mentioned before, ear infections are a common culprit for head shaking. The pain and discomfort associated with an ear infection can trigger repetitive head shaking, especially when trying to dislodge the irritation.
• Allergies: Just like ear infections, allergies can cause discomfort and itching, leading to head shaking. If your Yorkie is allergic to pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, they might shake their head to relieve the irritation.
• Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can cause intense itching and irritation in the ear canal, prompting your Yorkie to shake their head repeatedly.
• Foreign Objects: A seed, piece of grass, or any other foreign object lodged in the ear canal can cause pain and discomfort, prompting your Yorkie to shake their head vigorously.
• Earwax Buildup: While excess earwax is a normal occurrence, excessive buildup can lead to irritation and itching, triggering head shaking.

If your Yorkie is shaking their head excessively, it’s important to observe other symptoms. Watch for any signs of pain, discharge from the ears, scratching at the ears, or redness around the ears. These could indicate a more serious condition requiring veterinary attention.

In some cases, head shaking can also be a sign of behavioral issues. If your Yorkie is feeling stressed, anxious, or frustrated, they might shake their head. It’s essential to consider your Yorkie’s overall behavior to determine if head shaking is a sign of a medical condition or a behavioral issue.

It’s important to note that excessive head shaking in dogs can also be a symptom of serious conditions, including neurological disorders. If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s head-shaking behavior, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What Should I Do If I Notice My Yorkie Has Ear Discharge?

Ear discharge in Yorkies is a common concern among owners, often indicating an underlying issue that requires attention. The appearance and smell of the discharge can provide clues about the cause.

Here’s a breakdown of different types of ear discharge and their potential causes:

Type of Discharge	Possible Causes
Yellow or Brown, Foul-Smelling Discharge	Ear infection (bacterial or yeast)
Clear or White, Odorless Discharge	Allergies, ear mites, or foreign objects
Bloody Discharge	Trauma, ear tumors, or polyps

If you notice any ear discharge in your Yorkie, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can examine your Yorkie’s ears and determine the underlying cause. They may perform a culture to identify the specific bacteria or yeast responsible for the infection, allowing for targeted treatment.

In addition to ear discharge, other symptoms that may accompany an ear infection include:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Redness or swelling around the ears
• Pain when the ear is touched
• Loss of balance

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t delay in seeking veterinary care. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure your Yorkie’s comfort.

Maintaining good ear hygiene for your Yorkie can help prevent ear infections. This includes regularly cleaning the ears with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner and checking for any signs of irritation or inflammation.

Can I Clean My Yorkie’s Ears Myself?

It’s safe to clean your Yorkie’s ears yourself, but it’s crucial to do it correctly and gently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your Yorkie’s ears:

1. Gather the supplies: You will need a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner, cotton balls, and a few towels.
2. Warm the ear cleaner: Warm the ear cleaner to room temperature. Cold ear cleaner can be uncomfortable for your Yorkie.
3. Gently lift the ear flap: Gently lift your Yorkie’s ear flap to expose the ear canal. Avoid pulling or tugging on the ear.
4. Pour the ear cleaner into the ear canal: Pour a small amount of ear cleaner into the ear canal. Make sure the cleaner doesn’t go too far into the ear canal to avoid irritation.
5. Massage the base of the ear: Gently massage the base of the ear for a few seconds to allow the cleaner to work its way into the ear canal.
6. Allow your Yorkie to shake their head: Let your Yorkie shake their head to help remove excess cleaner and debris from the ear canal.
7. Wipe away excess cleaner and debris: Use a cotton ball to gently wipe away any excess cleaner and debris from the ear flap and surrounding area.
8. Repeat on the other ear: Repeat the cleaning process on the other ear.

If you notice excessive ear wax, discharge, or any signs of irritation, it’s best to avoid cleaning the ears yourself and consult with a veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of action.

What If My Yorkie’s Ears Are Constantly Getting Infected?

If your Yorkie’s ears are constantly getting infected, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. Recurrent ear infections can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as allergies, ear mites, or even a foreign object lodged in the ear canal.

Here are some possible causes of recurrent ear infections in Yorkies:

• Allergies: Allergies can trigger chronic inflammation in the ear canal, making it more susceptible to infections. It’s crucial to identify and manage any allergies your Yorkie might have.
• Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can thrive in the ear canal, leading to chronic inflammation and recurrent infections. It’s important to treat any ear mite infestations promptly and thoroughly.
• Foreign Objects: A foreign object lodged in the ear canal can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to persistent infections. A veterinarian can remove the foreign object and clear the infection.
• Ear Canal Anatomy: Some Yorkies have a predisposition to ear infections due to the shape or structure of their ear canals. This can make it more difficult for the ear to drain properly and increase the risk of infections.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or hypothyroidism, can weaken the immune system and make your Yorkie more susceptible to ear infections.

To address recurrent ear infections, a veterinarian will typically perform a thorough examination, including a culture of the ear discharge to identify the specific bacteria or yeast responsible. They may also recommend blood tests to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Treatment for recurrent ear infections may involve:

• Medications: Topical or oral medications may be prescribed to treat the infection and control inflammation.
• Ear Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the ears with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner can help prevent the buildup of debris and reduce the risk of infection.
• Allergy Management: If allergies are contributing to the recurrent infections, your veterinarian may recommend allergy testing and appropriate management strategies.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address anatomical abnormalities in the ear canal or to remove polyps or tumors.

It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and administer any prescribed medications as directed. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments will help ensure that the infection is effectively treated and prevent future recurrences.

Why Does My Yorkie’s Ears Smell?

A bad smell coming from your Yorkie’s ears is often a sign of a problem. The normal ear canal of a healthy dog has a slight odor, but if you notice a strong, unpleasant smell, it’s usually a sign of an infection or irritation. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of smelly ears in Yorkies:

• Ear Infections: Bacterial or yeast infections are common causes of smelly ears in dogs. The bacteria or yeast can produce foul-smelling compounds, contributing to the odor.
• Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can cause a strong, musty smell in the ear canal, as they produce waste products that can be quite pungent.
• Excess Earwax: While earwax is a normal part of the ear’s cleaning process, excess buildup can create a moist environment that encourages bacterial growth and produce a bad odor.
• Foreign Objects: A foreign object lodged in the ear canal can decompose and create a foul smell.
• Allergies: Allergies can trigger inflammation and itching in the ear canal, leading to increased earwax production and creating a moist environment that can contribute to bacterial growth and a bad odor.

If you notice a strong odor coming from your Yorkie’s ears, it’s important to seek veterinary attention promptly. A veterinarian can examine the ears, determine the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Regular ear cleaning and maintenance can help prevent smelly ears in Yorkies. Using a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner and checking for any signs of irritation or inflammation can help keep your Yorkie’s ears healthy and odor-free.

Why Is My Yorkie Constantly Scratching His Ears?

Excessive ear scratching in Yorkies can be a sign of discomfort, irritation, or infection. The constant scratching can cause damage to the ear flap and even lead to secondary infections. Here are some common causes of ear scratching in Yorkies:

• Ear Infections: Ear infections are a common cause of ear scratching in dogs. The pain and discomfort caused by the infection can trigger constant scratching.
• Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can cause intense itching and irritation in the ear canal, leading to frequent ear scratching.
• Allergies: Allergies can trigger inflammation and itching in the ear canal, leading to excessive ear scratching. Yorkies can be allergic to various things, including pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.
• Foreign Objects: A seed, piece of grass, or any other foreign object lodged in the ear canal can cause irritation and trigger scratching.
• Earwax Buildup: Excess earwax can irritate the ear canal and lead to scratching.

If your Yorkie is scratching their ears excessively, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian. They can examine the ears, determine the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.

It’s also important to note that ear scratching can be a sign of other health problems, such as hypothyroidism or autoimmune disorders. If your Yorkie is scratching their ears excessively and you suspect it might be a sign of a more serious condition, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Why Is My Yorkie Holding His Head Tilted?

A tilted head in Yorkies can be a sign of various issues, ranging from simple ear infections to neurological disorders. It’s essential to pay attention to your Yorkie’s head tilt and other associated symptoms to determine the underlying cause.

Here are some common reasons why your Yorkie might be holding their head tilted:

• Ear Infections: As discussed earlier, ear infections can cause pain and discomfort, leading to a head tilt. The dog may tilt its head to try to relieve the pressure in the affected ear.
• Inner Ear Infections: An infection in the inner ear can affect balance and coordination, leading to a head tilt. Other symptoms of inner ear infections include circling, head shaking, and vomiting.
• Neurological Disorders: Neurological disorders, such as vestibular disease, can also cause a head tilt. Vestibular disease is a condition that affects the inner ear and balance system. Other symptoms include nystagmus (rapid eye movement), stumbling, and falling.
• Trauma: A head injury can damage the inner ear or the brain, leading to a head tilt. Other symptoms of head trauma include seizures, lethargy, and loss of consciousness.
• Tumors: In rare cases, a tumor in the brain or inner ear can also cause a head tilt. Other symptoms of brain tumors include seizures, blindness, and paralysis.

If your Yorkie is holding their head tilted, it’s important to seek veterinary attention promptly. A veterinarian can examine your Yorkie, determine the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and improve your Yorkie’s quality of life. If you suspect your Yorkie has a neurological disorder, prompt veterinary care is essential.

Why Does My Yorkie Have Dry Ears?

Dry ears in Yorkies can be a sign of various issues, ranging from simple dehydration to underlying health conditions. Understanding the possible causes can help you address the issue effectively.

Here are some common reasons why your Yorkie’s ears might be dry:

• Dehydration: If your Yorkie isn’t drinking enough water, their ears can become dry and flaky. Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, including ear health.
• Allergies: Allergies can trigger inflammation and itching in the ear canal, leading to dryness and flakiness. This can be exacerbated if your Yorkie is constantly scratching their ears.
• Ear Mites: While ear mites are more commonly associated with oily ears, they can also cause dryness and flakiness in some cases.
• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, can cause dry skin and ears.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can lead to dry skin and ears.

If you notice your Yorkie’s ears are dry, it’s important to address the underlying cause. A veterinarian can examine your Yorkie, determine the reason for the dry ears, and recommend appropriate treatment.

In some cases, simply ensuring adequate hydration and providing your Yorkie with a well-balanced diet can address dry ears. However, if you suspect a more serious underlying condition, prompt veterinary care is essential.

Why Does My Yorkie Have Oily Ears?

Oily ears in Yorkies can be a sign of several issues, often related to inflammation, infection, or parasites. While some dogs naturally have oilier ears than others, excessive oiliness can be a cause for concern. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of oily ears in Yorkies:

• Ear Infections: Both bacterial and yeast infections can cause an increase in earwax production, resulting in oily ears. The infection can lead to inflammation and irritation, further contributing to the oiliness.
• Ear Mites: Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in the ear canal. They can cause intense itching and irritation, leading to increased earwax production and an oily appearance.
• Allergies: Allergies can trigger inflammation in the ear canal, leading to increased oil production and a greasy appearance. The allergies could be related to food, pollen, or other environmental factors.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to oily ears in dogs. In some cases, this can be related to an overactive thyroid gland or other hormonal conditions.

If you notice excessive oiliness in your Yorkie’s ears, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. They can perform a thorough examination, including a microscopic evaluation of ear discharge to identify any parasites or infections.

Treatment for oily ears in Yorkies will depend on the underlying cause. It may involve medications to treat infections or parasites, allergy management strategies, or other approaches to address hormonal imbalances.

Maintaining good ear hygiene for your Yorkie can help prevent oily ears. Regular cleaning with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner and checking for any signs of inflammation or irritation can help keep your Yorkie’s ears healthy and clean.

Summary of Yorkie Ear Issues

Symptom	Possible Causes
Drooping Ears	Ear infections, allergies, trauma, ear mites, foreign objects, behavioral issues
Head Shaking	Ear infections, allergies, ear mites, foreign objects, earwax buildup, behavioral issues
Ear Discharge	Ear infections, allergies, ear mites, foreign objects, trauma, ear tumors
Smelly Ears	Ear infections, ear mites, excess earwax, foreign objects, allergies
Ear Scratching	Ear infections, ear mites, allergies, foreign objects, earwax buildup, hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders
Head Tilt	Ear infections, inner ear infections, neurological disorders, trauma, tumors
Dry Ears	Dehydration, allergies, ear mites, hypothyroidism, nutritional deficiencies
Oily Ears	Ear infections, ear mites, allergies, hormonal imbalances

FAQ

How often should I clean my Yorkie’s ears?

It is recommended to clean your Yorkie’s ears at least once a week, or more frequently if they are prone to ear infections or have oily ears.

What kind of ear cleaner should I use for my Yorkie?

It’s best to use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner specifically formulated for dogs. Avoid using human ear cleaners, as they can irritate your Yorkie’s ears.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clean my Yorkie’s ears?

It’s best to avoid using hydrogen peroxide to clean your Yorkie’s ears. Hydrogen peroxide can be irritating and can even damage the ear canal.

What should I do if my Yorkie is constantly shaking his head?

If your Yorkie is shaking their head excessively, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.

How can I prevent ear infections in my Yorkie?

Regular ear cleaning, using a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner, can help prevent ear infections. It’s also important to manage any allergies your Yorkie might have and keep their ears dry after swimming or bathing.

What are the signs of an ear infection in my Yorkie?

Signs of an ear infection in your Yorkie include head shaking, ear scratching, ear discharge, redness or swelling around the ears, and pain when the ear is touched.

What should I do if I notice ear discharge in my Yorkie?

If you notice any ear discharge in your Yorkie, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.