The Ultimate Guide to Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers: Everything You Need to Know
What is a Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terrier?
A Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terrier, also known as a Yorkie, is a small breed of dog that is known for its long, silky coat and its floppy ears. While most Yorkshire Terriers have erect, pointed ears, some Yorkies are born with floppy ears. This is a genetic trait that is not always predictable and can occur even in litters where all other puppies have erect ears.
These dogs are affectionate, playful, and relatively easy to train. They make great companions for people of all ages, and they are known for their intelligence and loyalty.
However, Floppy Eared Yorkies can also be prone to certain health problems, including ear infections and eye problems. It is important to be aware of these potential issues and to take steps to prevent them.
Are Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers Rare?
Floppy ears in Yorkies are not as common as erect ears, but they are not considered rare either. The prevalence of floppy ears in Yorkies can vary depending on the breeder and the specific bloodlines. While some breeders specifically breed for floppy ears, others do not.
If you are interested in getting a Floppy Eared Yorkie, it is important to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with information about the dog’s lineage and health history.
Are Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers Healthier?
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers are healthier or less healthy than their erect-eared counterparts. However, some breeders believe that floppy ears may be associated with certain health problems, such as ear infections.
It is important to note that any dog breed can be prone to health problems, and it is always advisable to have a veterinarian check your dog regularly.
How Do I Know If My Yorkie Will Have Floppy Ears?
It is difficult to predict whether a Yorkie puppy will have floppy ears. Even if both parents have erect ears, there is a chance that the puppy may inherit the gene for floppy ears. However, there are some factors that may increase the likelihood of floppy ears, such as:
- Breeders who specifically breed for floppy ears: Some breeders prioritize floppy ears and select breeding pairs based on this trait. This increases the chance of producing puppies with floppy ears.
- Bloodlines: Certain bloodlines may be more prone to floppy ears than others. This is because floppy ears are a genetic trait, and the genes for floppy ears can be passed down from generation to generation.
- Individual puppy: Even within a litter, some puppies may be born with floppy ears while others have erect ears. This is simply due to the random combination of genes that each puppy inherits from their parents.
How Do I Care for My Floppy Eared Yorkie?
Caring for a Floppy Eared Yorkie is similar to caring for any other Yorkshire Terrier, with a few extra considerations:
- Ear hygiene: It’s crucial to keep your Yorkie’s ears clean and dry to prevent infections. Regularly check for dirt, debris, and wax buildup and clean the ears with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner. If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge, consult your veterinarian immediately.
- Grooming: Yorkies have long, silky coats that require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Pay close attention to the ears, as they can easily get tangled due to the length of the hair.
- Ear infections: Floppy ears can be more prone to ear infections due to the lack of air circulation. Keep your Yorkie’s ears clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. If you notice any signs of an ear infection, such as scratching, shaking the head, or a foul odor, contact your veterinarian.
- Training: Floppy Eared Yorkies are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. Use positive reinforcement methods to teach your Yorkie basic commands and good manners.
Are Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers More Prone to Ear Infections?
Yes, Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers may be more prone to ear infections compared to their erect-eared counterparts. This is primarily due to the shape of their ears, which can trap moisture and create a favorable environment for bacteria and yeast to grow.
Floppy ears often have reduced air circulation, leading to a warm and humid environment inside the ear canal. This can promote the growth of microorganisms that cause ear infections. Additionally, the longer hair around the ears can trap dirt and debris, further increasing the risk of infection.
What Should I Do If My Floppy Eared Yorkie Has an Ear Infection?
If you suspect your Floppy Eared Yorkie has an ear infection, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. A veterinarian can diagnose the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Ear cleaning: The veterinarian will thoroughly clean the ear canal to remove debris and any infected material. They may use specialized solutions to help remove wax and debris.
- Medications: Depending on the type of infection, your veterinarian may prescribe topical or oral medications. Topical medications are applied directly to the ear canal, while oral medications are taken by mouth.
It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully for administering medications and for ongoing ear care. Regularly clean your Yorkie’s ears and monitor them for any signs of recurrence.
Are Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers More Prone to Eye Problems?
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that Floppy Eared Yorkies are more prone to eye problems than Yorkies with erect ears. However, certain eye conditions can occur in any breed, and it’s always important to be aware of potential problems and seek veterinary attention if needed.
Do Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers Need Special Care?
Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers need a bit of extra care, particularly when it comes to their ears. To keep your floppy-eared Yorkie healthy and happy, consider the following:
- Regular ear cleaning: As mentioned earlier, floppy ears are more prone to infections due to reduced air circulation. Regularly cleaning the ears with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner can help prevent ear infections.
- Ear trimming: The hair around the ears can trap moisture and debris. Trimming the hair around the ears can help keep them clean and dry.
- Careful drying: After baths or swimming, ensure the ears are thoroughly dried to prevent moisture buildup.
- Professional grooming: Consider taking your Yorkie to a professional groomer for regular ear cleaning and hair trimming.
Are Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers More Difficult to Groom?
Grooming a Floppy Eared Yorkie may require slightly more attention than grooming a Yorkie with erect ears, but it’s not necessarily more difficult.
The extra effort lies in keeping the ears clean and free from tangles. Regular brushing and trimming the hair around the ears can help prevent mats and make grooming easier.
Can I Train My Floppy Eared Yorkie to Have Erect Ears?
No, you cannot train a Floppy Eared Yorkie to have erect ears. The shape of a dog’s ears is determined by genetics, and it’s not something that can be changed through training.
If you are interested in a Yorkie with erect ears, you can look for breeders who specifically breed for this trait.
Why Do People Prefer Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers?
Some people prefer Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers because they find them to be more adorable or unique. They may also appreciate the extra attention required for ear care, as it can be seen as a bonding experience with their pet.
Table of Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terrier Information
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ear Type | Floppy ears |
| Rarity | Not as common as erect ears, but not considered rare |
| Health | No scientific evidence suggests they are healthier or less healthy than erect-eared Yorkies |
| Ear Infections | More prone to ear infections due to reduced air circulation and moisture buildup |
| Grooming | Requires extra attention to ear care, but not necessarily more difficult to groom overall |
| Training | Generally intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train |
| Care | Regular ear cleaning, trimming hair around ears, careful drying after baths or swimming |
Frequently Asked Questions About Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers
What is the best way to clean my Floppy Eared Yorkie’s ears?
The best way to clean your Floppy Eared Yorkie’s ears is to use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner. Gently apply the cleaner to the ear canal, massaging the base of the ear to loosen debris. Wipe away any excess cleaner with a cotton ball or soft cloth. Never insert anything into the ear canal, as this can damage the eardrum.
How often should I clean my Floppy Eared Yorkie’s ears?
It is recommended to clean your Floppy Eared Yorkie’s ears at least once a week, or more often if they are prone to ear infections. You can also check the ears for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
What are the signs of an ear infection in a Floppy Eared Yorkie?
Signs of an ear infection in a Floppy Eared Yorkie include scratching at the ears, shaking the head, head tilt, discharge from the ears, and a foul odor from the ears. If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Can I use human ear drops on my Floppy Eared Yorkie?
No, you should never use human ear drops on your Floppy Eared Yorkie. Human ear drops may contain ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Always use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner or medication.
How can I prevent ear infections in my Floppy Eared Yorkie?
You can help prevent ear infections in your Floppy Eared Yorkie by regularly cleaning their ears, keeping them dry, and avoiding excessive exposure to water. It’s also important to be aware of any factors that may increase the risk of infection, such as allergies or a history of ear infections.
What are the best foods for Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers?
A high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds is the best choice for Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Yorkie, taking into account their age, activity level, and any health conditions.
How much exercise does a Floppy Eared Yorkie need?
Floppy Eared Yorkshire Terriers are relatively small dogs and do not need extensive exercise. Daily walks and playtime in the yard are sufficient to meet their needs. However, it’s important to provide mental stimulation through interactive toys and training.
