How To Solve Common Problems In Yorkie Terriers

Why is my Yorkie terrier shaking?

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their playful and loving personalities, but they can also be prone to certain health problems that can cause them to shake. While shaking can be a sign of a serious condition, it is also common for Yorkies to shake for less serious reasons.

If your Yorkie is shaking, it is important to identify the cause of the shaking. Some common reasons why Yorkies shake include:

• Cold: Yorkies are small dogs and can get cold easily. If your Yorkie is shaking, it may simply be because they are cold. Try wrapping them in a blanket or putting on a sweater to see if that helps.
• Excitement or nervousness: Yorkies are known to be excitable and nervous dogs. If your Yorkie is shaking, they may simply be excited or nervous about something. Try to calm them down by giving them a treat or petting them.
• Pain: If your Yorkie is shaking, they may be in pain. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as arthritis, a broken bone, or an injury. If you think your Yorkie may be in pain, it is important to take them to the vet to get checked out.
• Anxiety: Yorkies can also shake from anxiety. If your Yorkie is shaking, they may be anxious about something, such as a loud noise, a new person, or being left alone. Try to identify the source of their anxiety and take steps to address it.
• Medical conditions: In some cases, shaking can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as hypoglycemia, seizures, or neurological disorders. If you are concerned that your Yorkie may be shaking due to a medical condition, it is important to take them to the vet to get checked out.

If you notice your Yorkie shaking, it’s important to observe their behavior to determine the cause. If the shaking is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s best to contact your veterinarian immediately.

Your veterinarian will be able to assess your Yorkie’s condition and determine the cause of the shaking. They may recommend blood work, x-rays, or other diagnostic tests to help them make a diagnosis.

If the shaking is determined to be due to a medical condition, your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may involve medication, dietary changes, or other therapies.

By addressing the cause of the shaking, you can help your Yorkie feel better and prevent further complications.

How to stop my Yorkie terrier from barking?

Excessive barking is a common problem for Yorkie owners. While Yorkies are known for their playful personalities, they can also be quite vocal. If your Yorkie is barking excessively, it is important to identify the cause of the barking and take steps to address it.

There are a number of reasons why Yorkies bark excessively, including:

• Boredom: If your Yorkie is bored, they may bark to get your attention. Try to provide your Yorkie with plenty of toys, chew bones, and opportunities to play and exercise.
• Anxiety: Yorkies can also bark out of anxiety. If your Yorkie is anxious about being left alone, they may bark excessively when you are gone. Try to create a calm and comfortable environment for your Yorkie when you are not home.
• Territoriality: Yorkies are known for being territorial, and they may bark at strangers or other animals who come into their territory. Try to socialize your Yorkie early on so that they are more comfortable around other people and animals.
• Attention-seeking: Yorkies may also bark to get attention from their owners. If your Yorkie barks and you give them attention, they will learn that barking is a way to get what they want. Try to ignore your Yorkie when they bark and only give them attention when they are quiet.
• Protective instincts: Yorkies have a strong protective instinct and may bark at anything that they perceive as a threat. This could include strangers, other animals, or even loud noises. Try to teach your Yorkie that these things are not threats and that they don’t need to bark at them.

Once you have identified the cause of your Yorkie’s barking, you can begin to take steps to address it.

For example, if your Yorkie is barking out of boredom, you can provide them with more toys and opportunities for exercise. If your Yorkie is barking out of anxiety, you can try to create a more calm and comfortable environment for them.

If you are struggling to stop your Yorkie from barking, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer. A dog trainer can help you to identify the cause of your Yorkie’s barking and develop a plan to address it.

How to stop my Yorkie terrier from biting?

Yorkies are known for their playful and loving personalities, but they can also be prone to biting. Biting can be a problem for Yorkies of all ages, but it is particularly common in puppies. If your Yorkie is biting, it is important to identify the cause of the biting and take steps to address it.

There are a number of reasons why Yorkies bite, including:

• Teething: Puppies bite because they are teething. Their gums are sore, and biting can help to relieve the pain.
• Play: Yorkies may also bite during play. They may not realize that they are biting too hard, and they may just be excited and having fun.
• Fear: Yorkies may also bite out of fear. If your Yorkie feels threatened, they may bite to protect themselves.
• Dominance: Some Yorkies may bite to assert dominance over other dogs or people. This is often a sign of insecurity or lack of training.
• Pain: Yorkies may also bite if they are in pain. If your Yorkie is in pain, they may be irritable and more likely to bite.

Once you have identified the cause of your Yorkie’s biting, you can begin to take steps to address it.

For example, if your Yorkie is biting because they are teething, you can give them chew toys to help relieve the pain. If your Yorkie is biting during play, you can teach them to play gently by redirecting their biting to a toy.

If your Yorkie is biting out of fear, you can help them to feel more secure by socializing them and exposing them to new people, animals, and situations in a safe and controlled environment.

If your Yorkie is biting to assert dominance, you can help them to learn that you are the pack leader by using positive reinforcement training methods.

If your Yorkie is biting because they are in pain, you should take them to the vet to get checked out.

It is important to remember that biting can be a serious problem and should not be ignored. If you are struggling to stop your Yorkie from biting, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer. A dog trainer can help you to identify the cause of your Yorkie’s biting and develop a plan to address it.

How to potty train my Yorkie terrier puppy?

Potty training a Yorkie puppy can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you potty train your Yorkie puppy:

1. Establish a Routine: Puppies have small bladders and need to go out frequently, especially after waking up and eating. Set a regular potty schedule, taking your puppy out every two hours and immediately after meals and naps.
2. Choose a Designated Potty Spot: Pick a specific spot in your yard or outside your home for your puppy to use as their potty area. Consistency is key to potty training success.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement: When your puppy eliminates in the designated potty spot, praise them with verbal encouragement and a treat. Positive reinforcement will help them associate going potty in the right place with positive experiences.
4. Supervise and Watch for Signs: Keep a close eye on your puppy, especially after meals and naps. Look for signs they need to go potty, such as sniffing, circling, or squatting.
5. Take Them to the Designated Spot Immediately: When you see these signs, immediately take your puppy to their designated potty spot.
6. Accidents Happen: If your puppy has an accident inside, clean it up with a pet-safe cleaner and don’t punish them. Punishing can make the training process more stressful for both you and your puppy.
7. Be Patient and Consistent: Potty training takes time and patience. Stay consistent with your routine and reward your puppy for their successes. Accidents are part of the process, so don’t get discouraged.
8. Consider a Crate: A crate can be helpful for potty training. Puppies are less likely to go potty where they sleep. If you use a crate, ensure your puppy has a chance to go out right before bedtime and first thing in the morning.
9. Consult Your Veterinarian: If you’re having trouble potty training your Yorkie, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can offer advice and rule out any underlying medical issues that might be contributing to the problem.
10. Celebrate Success: As your Yorkie puppy progresses with potty training, celebrate their successes with praise, treats, and playtime. This positive reinforcement will help them stay motivated and make the training journey enjoyable for both of you.

Why is my Yorkie terrier eating poop?

Coprophagia, or the act of eating poop, is a common behavioral issue in dogs, including Yorkie terriers. While it might seem disgusting to us, there are a few reasons why your Yorkie might be engaging in this behavior.

Here are some of the most common reasons behind coprophagia in Yorkies:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients in your Yorkie’s diet, particularly protein and essential vitamins, could lead them to seek those nutrients from their own poop. This is a sign that their food might not be meeting their nutritional needs.
• Stress or Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways, and some dogs may turn to coprophagia as a way to cope. If your Yorkie is experiencing a change in routine, a new environment, or separation anxiety, this could trigger the behavior.
• Boredom: Just like humans, dogs can get bored. If your Yorkie doesn’t have enough mental and physical stimulation, they might resort to destructive or unusual behaviors like eating poop.
• Medical Conditions: In some cases, coprophagia can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as intestinal parasites, pancreatic insufficiency, or certain types of digestive disorders. If your Yorkie has a medical condition that affects their digestion, they might find their own feces appealing.
• Puppyhood: Puppies often explore their environment with their mouths, and they may sample poop simply out of curiosity. This behavior typically fades as puppies mature.
• Taste: Believe it or not, the composition of dog poop can sometimes make it appealing to dogs. It might contain undigested food, which could be perceived as a tasty treat.

If you notice your Yorkie eating poop, it’s important to address the behavior promptly. Here are some steps you can take:

• Consult Your Veterinarian: First, schedule a visit with your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Your vet can perform a physical exam, run blood tests, and check for parasites.
• Diet Evaluation: Discuss your Yorkie’s diet with your vet and consider switching to a higher-quality food that meets their specific nutritional needs.
• Environmental Enrichment: Provide your Yorkie with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. This could include interactive toys, puzzles, regular walks, playtime, and training sessions.
• Reduce Stress: Identify and address any stressors in your Yorkie’s environment. This might involve providing a safe and comfortable space, avoiding overstimulation, and gradually introducing new people or situations.
• Pick Up Poop Promptly: Keep your Yorkie’s living area clean and remove poop as soon as possible. This will make it less appealing to your dog.
• Consider a Muzzle: If your Yorkie is persistent in eating poop, a muzzle can be a temporary solution to prevent them from ingesting it.
• Positive Reinforcement: When you catch your Yorkie eating something appropriate (like their food or a treat), praise them and reward them with a special treat.

Remember, patience and consistency are key to addressing coprophagia. It may take time and effort to modify your Yorkie’s behavior. Consult your vet if you’re concerned or if the behavior persists despite your efforts.

How do I groom my Yorkie terrier?

Grooming your Yorkie terrier is essential for their health and well-being. Their long, silky coat requires regular attention to prevent mats and tangles, and to keep them looking their best. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to groom your Yorkie at home:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a few essential tools for grooming your Yorkie, including a high-quality slicker brush, a metal comb, a pair of dog-specific nail clippers, a pair of blunt-tipped scissors, a bath towel, dog shampoo and conditioner, and ear cleaning solution.
2. Start with Brushing: Begin by brushing your Yorkie’s coat regularly, at least once a day, to prevent matting and tangles. Use the slicker brush to remove loose hair and dirt, and then follow with the metal comb to ensure that there are no knots or mats left.
3. Give Them a Bath: Yorkies need regular baths, approximately every 4-6 weeks. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat clean, healthy, and free of any odors. Always rinse their coat thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo and conditioner.
4. Dry Their Coat: Gently towel dry your Yorkie’s coat after their bath, and then let it air dry completely. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting if needed, but make sure you keep it a safe distance from their skin to prevent burns.
5. Trim Their Nails: Trim your Yorkie’s nails regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown and uncomfortable. If you’re unsure how to trim your dog’s nails, ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for assistance.
6. Clean Their Ears: Use an ear cleaning solution and cotton balls to gently clean their ears. Avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the ear canal, as this can cause irritation or damage.
7. Brush Their Teeth: Brushing your Yorkie’s teeth regularly is essential for their oral health. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste and brush gently, paying attention to their back teeth.
8. Professional Grooming: Consider taking your Yorkie to a professional groomer for a full grooming session every few months. This will ensure that their coat is properly trimmed, their nails are clipped, and their ears are cleaned professionally.
9. Be Gentle and Patient: Grooming your Yorkie can be a bonding experience. Be patient, gentle, and praise your Yorkie throughout the grooming process to make it a positive experience for both of you.

Grooming your Yorkie regularly is crucial for their health, hygiene, and overall well-being. With a little time and effort, you can keep your Yorkie looking their best and enjoying a healthy, happy life.

What are the best foods to feed my Yorkie terrier?

Choosing the right food for your Yorkie terrier is essential for their overall health and well-being. Yorkies have specific dietary needs due to their small size and active lifestyle. Here’s a guide to help you select the best food for your furry friend:

• High-Quality Ingredients: Look for foods made with high-quality, digestible ingredients like real meat (chicken, beef, lamb, or fish) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
• Age-Appropriate Formula: Choose a food that is formulated specifically for small breed dogs. These formulas have smaller kibble sizes that are easier for Yorkies to chew and digest. Consider puppy formulas for growing puppies and adult formulas for mature Yorkies.
• Nutrient-Dense: Yorkies require a nutrient-dense diet to support their energy levels, healthy coat, and overall well-being. Look for foods that are rich in protein, essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), and vitamins and minerals.
• Limited Ingredient Diets: Consider limited ingredient diets for Yorkies who are prone to food allergies or sensitivities. These diets contain a smaller number of ingredients, which can help to identify potential allergens.
• Dry Food vs. Wet Food: Both dry food and wet food can be suitable for Yorkies, but dry food is typically more convenient and may help with dental health. Wet food can be more appealing to some Yorkies and can be helpful if your dog is having trouble eating.
• Treats: Choose healthy and low-calorie treats to reward your Yorkie. Avoid treats with artificial ingredients and sugar.
• Water: Always provide fresh, clean water for your Yorkie to drink. Keep their water bowl filled and clean it regularly.
• Consult Your Veterinarian: It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian about the best food for your Yorkie. They can assess your dog’s individual needs and recommend the right food for their age, activity level, and health conditions.

By choosing the right food for your Yorkie terrier, you can provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive and enjoy a long and healthy life. Remember, good nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining their energy, vitality, and overall well-being.

How to train my Yorkie terrier puppy?

Training your Yorkie terrier puppy is essential for building a well-behaved and happy dog. It lays the foundation for a strong bond, good manners, and a positive relationship. Here are some tips for successfully training your Yorkie puppy:

1. Start Early: Begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home, even at just a few weeks old. Puppies are eager to learn, and early training makes the process easier.
2. Be Consistent: Consistency is key. Train your puppy in short, frequent sessions using positive reinforcement methods, like treats, praise, and playtime.
3. Choose the Right Commands: Start with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” These commands form the foundation for more advanced training.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy when they perform the desired behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Positive reinforcement makes learning enjoyable for them.
5. Be Patient and Understanding: Puppies make mistakes. Be patient, understanding, and avoid punishment. Instead, redirect them to the correct behavior with positive reinforcement.
6. Socialization: Proper socialization is crucial for your Yorkie puppy. Expose them to different people, animals, sights, and sounds in a safe and controlled environment to help them develop confidence and become well-adjusted dogs.
7. Enroll in Puppy Training Classes: Consider enrolling your puppy in a puppy training class. This provides a structured environment where they can learn from a professional trainer and interact with other puppies.
8. Practice, Practice, Practice: Training is an ongoing process. Practice the commands regularly to reinforce the training and maintain your puppy’s good behavior.
9. Have Fun!: Training should be fun for both you and your puppy. Use positive reinforcement, keep sessions short and rewarding, and make it an enjoyable bonding experience.

Training your Yorkie puppy takes time, patience, and consistency, but the rewards are worth it. By training your puppy effectively, you can develop a strong bond, build good manners, and create a well-behaved and happy companion for years to come.

How to choose the right Yorkie terrier breeder

If you’re looking to bring a Yorkie terrier into your life, choosing the right breeder is crucial. It’s important to find a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health, well-being, and temperament of their dogs. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a Yorkie breeder:

• Reputation and References: Research potential breeders thoroughly. Look for breeders with a good reputation in the community, positive reviews, and references from previous buyers.
• Health Testing: Responsible breeders will have their breeding dogs tested for common health conditions that Yorkies are prone to, such as patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Ask for documentation of these tests.
• Breeding Practices: Inquire about the breeder’s breeding practices. A responsible breeder will focus on the health and well-being of their dogs, not just on profit. They should have a clean and safe environment for their dogs.
• Temperament and Socialization: Meet the parents of the puppies, if possible. Observe their temperament and how they interact with people and other dogs. A responsible breeder will prioritize socialization and ensure that puppies are exposed to different people and situations.
• Puppy Contracts: A reputable breeder will provide a puppy contract that outlines responsibilities, health guarantees, and other terms. Review this contract carefully before making a decision.
• Breeder’s Involvement: A good breeder will be invested in their puppies’ well-being and be available to answer questions and provide support after you bring your new Yorkie home.
• Avoid Puppy Mills: Be wary of breeders who sell puppies online without meeting them in person or who offer a “too good to be true” deal. Puppy mills prioritize profit over the health and well-being of their dogs.
• Consider Rescue Organizations: If you’re open to adopting a Yorkie, consider reaching out to local rescue organizations. Many wonderful Yorkies are waiting for their forever homes.

Choosing the right Yorkie breeder is an important decision. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and visiting potential breeders, you can find a responsible breeder who shares your commitment to finding a healthy, well-adjusted, and happy Yorkie companion.

Table Summarizing Common Yorkie Problems

Problem	Causes	Solutions
Shaking	Cold, Excitement, Pain, Anxiety, Medical Conditions	Identify the cause, provide warmth if needed, try to calm them down, consult a vet if necessary
Excessive Barking	Boredom, Anxiety, Territoriality, Attention-seeking, Protective Instincts	Provide mental and physical stimulation, create a calm environment, socialize them, ignore barking and reward quietness, train them to be less protective
Biting	Teething, Play, Fear, Dominance, Pain	Provide chew toys, teach gentle play, socialize them, assert dominance, consult a vet if they’re in pain
Potty Training	Lack of routine, not recognizing signs, lack of consistency, accidents	Establish a routine, watch for signs, be consistent, clean up accidents without punishment
Eating Poop	Nutritional deficiencies, stress/anxiety, boredom, medical conditions, taste	Consult a vet, improve diet, provide stimulation, address stress, pick up poop promptly, consider a muzzle
Grooming	Matted fur, dirty coat, overgrown nails, dirty ears, poor dental hygiene	Brush regularly, bathe regularly, trim nails, clean ears, brush teeth
Nutrition	Low-quality food, lack of specific nutrients, allergies	Choose high-quality food, select age-appropriate formulas, consider limited ingredient diets, consult a vet
Training	Lack of early training, inconsistent training, not using positive reinforcement	Start training early, be consistent, use positive reinforcement, socialize them
Choosing a Breeder	Unreputable breeders, lack of health testing, poor breeding practices, no puppy contracts	Research breeders, ask for health testing documentation, inquire about breeding practices, get a puppy contract

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie terriers:

What is the average lifespan of a Yorkie?

The average lifespan of a Yorkie is 12-15 years, but some can live even longer with proper care.

How much does a Yorkie terrier cost?

The cost of a Yorkie terrier can vary depending on the breeder, lineage, and location. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more for a Yorkie puppy.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

Yorkies are prone to certain health conditions, including patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and eye problems. Regular vet checkups and preventive care can help to identify and manage these issues.

Are Yorkies hypoallergenic?

Yorkies are not technically hypoallergenic, as they still produce dander (dead skin cells). However, their coat is considered to be less allergenic than the coats of some other breeds, making them a good choice for some people with allergies.

Are Yorkies good family dogs?

Yorkies are known for their loving and playful personalities, making them great companions for families. However, they are small dogs and should be supervised around young children to prevent accidental injuries.

What are some common Yorkie terrier names?

Popular Yorkie names include:

• Bella
• Lucy
• Charlie
• Max
• Coco
• Teddy
• Buddy

Where can I find a Yorkie terrier breeder?

You can find Yorkie terrier breeders through online directories, dog breed clubs, and local pet shelters. Be sure to do your research and choose a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.