6 Common Yorkie Terrier Diseases And How To Spot Them Early

Yorkie terriers are beloved for their playful personalities and adorable size. They are often considered to be great family pets, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Knowing the common diseases that Yorkie terriers may develop can help you provide them with the best possible care.

This article will discuss 6 common Yorkie terrier diseases, including their symptoms, causes, and treatment options. We will also explore ways to prevent these conditions and ensure your Yorkie lives a long and healthy life.

By understanding these diseases and being vigilant about your Yorkie’s health, you can give them the best chance of a happy and fulfilling life.

Let’s delve into the specifics of each disease and learn how to spot them early on.

What Are The Most Common Yorkie Terrier Diseases?

Yorkie terriers, despite their charming personalities and small size, can be susceptible to certain health issues. Understanding these common diseases and how to recognize them early is crucial for providing your furry friend with the best possible care.

Here are six common Yorkie terrier diseases that you should be aware of:

• Hypoglycemia
• Patellar Luxation
• Portosystemic Shunt
• Dental Issues
• Eye Problems
• Allergies

Being aware of these conditions and their symptoms can help you detect potential problems early and seek veterinary attention promptly. This proactive approach can significantly contribute to your Yorkie’s well-being and longevity.

Hypoglycemia in Yorkie Terriers

Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, is a condition that can affect Yorkie terriers, especially puppies and seniors. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough glucose (sugar) to function properly. In puppies, it’s often due to inadequate milk intake or infrequent feedings. In older Yorkies, it may be linked to underlying conditions like liver disease or diabetes.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia in Yorkie terriers:

• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Shaking
• Seizures
• Loss of coordination
• Collapse

Treatment of hypoglycemia:

If you suspect your Yorkie is experiencing hypoglycemia, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary attention. They can administer glucose intravenously to rapidly raise blood sugar levels and provide further treatment depending on the underlying cause.

Prevention of hypoglycemia:

• For puppies, ensure they are fed frequently and receive adequate milk from their mother or a milk replacer.
• For adult Yorkies, maintain a regular feeding schedule and provide them with a high-quality diet.
• Monitor your Yorkie’s weight and consult a veterinarian if they show signs of weight loss or changes in appetite.

Hypoglycemia can be a serious condition, but early intervention and proper care can often prevent complications. By being aware of the symptoms and seeking veterinary assistance promptly, you can help your Yorkie overcome this challenge.

Patellar Luxation in Yorkie Terriers

Patellar luxation, also known as kneecap displacement, is a common orthopedic condition in small breed dogs, including Yorkie terriers. It occurs when the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its groove in the thighbone (femur).

Causes of patellar luxation:

• Inherited predisposition: Patellar luxation is often inherited, making certain breeds like Yorkies more prone to the condition.
• Developmental issues: Abnormalities in the development of the knee joint can contribute to patellar luxation.
• Trauma: Injuries to the knee joint, such as those caused by falls or accidents, can also cause the kneecap to dislocate.

Symptoms of patellar luxation:

The severity of patellar luxation can vary. Some dogs may show no symptoms, while others may experience:

• Limping or lameness
• Skipping gait
• Holding the leg up
• Pain or discomfort when the leg is manipulated
• Clicking or popping sound in the knee joint

Treatment of patellar luxation:

Treatment options for patellar luxation depend on the severity of the condition and the dog’s age. Non-surgical treatment may involve:

• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the knee joint.
• Rest and pain management: Rest and pain medication can help alleviate symptoms.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches can strengthen muscles around the knee and improve joint stability.

In more severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the alignment of the kneecap and stabilize the joint.

Prevention of patellar luxation:

While patellar luxation is often genetically predisposed, there are measures you can take to minimize the risk:

• Responsible breeding: Choosing breeders who test their dogs for patellar luxation can help reduce the incidence of the condition.
• Avoid excessive exercise: Overexertion can put stress on the knee joint, especially in young dogs.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can exacerbate the symptoms of patellar luxation.

Being aware of the potential for patellar luxation in Yorkie terriers and seeking early veterinary care can help manage the condition and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Portosystemic Shunt in Yorkie Terriers

A portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a serious condition that occurs when blood bypasses the liver, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. In Yorkie terriers, this condition can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life.

Causes of portosystemic shunt:

• Congenital malformations: Abnormal blood vessel connections present at birth can lead to PSS.
• Acquired conditions: Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, can cause a shunt to form.

Symptoms of portosystemic shunt:

PSS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Stunted growth
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Urinary problems
• Seizures
• Behavioral changes
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Treatment of portosystemic shunt:

Treatment for PSS typically involves:

• Dietary management: A special diet low in protein and high in fiber may be prescribed to reduce the workload on the liver.
• Medications: Medications can be used to control symptoms and reduce toxin levels.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to close or correct the shunt.

Prevention of portosystemic shunt:

While congenital PSS is difficult to prevent, regular veterinary checkups and monitoring your Yorkie for signs of the condition can help with early diagnosis and treatment.

PSS can be a complex and challenging condition, but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve your Yorkie’s quality of life.

Dental Issues in Yorkie Terriers

Yorkie terriers, with their small mouths and crowded teeth, are prone to developing dental issues. These issues can range from plaque buildup to serious gum disease and tooth loss.

Causes of dental issues:

• Breed predisposition: Yorkie terriers, due to their small size and crowded teeth, are more susceptible to dental problems.
• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and dental care can lead to plaque buildup and gum disease.
• Diet: A diet high in carbohydrates can contribute to the formation of plaque and tartar.

Symptoms of dental issues:

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Difficulty chewing
• Loss of appetite
• Drooling

Treatment of dental issues:

Treatment options for dental issues vary depending on the severity. They may include:

• Professional dental cleaning: A veterinarian can remove plaque, tartar, and calculus from the teeth.
• Tooth extraction: Severely damaged or infected teeth may need to be removed.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat gum infections.

Prevention of dental issues:

• Regular brushing: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth at least once a day with a dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush.
• Dental chews: Provide your Yorkie with dental chews or toys to help remove plaque.
• Dental diets: Consider feeding your Yorkie a dental-specific diet formulated to reduce plaque buildup.
• Professional dental checkups: Schedule annual dental checkups with your veterinarian to ensure early detection and treatment of any issues.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for your Yorkie’s overall health and well-being.

Eye Problems in Yorkie Terriers

Yorkie terriers are prone to certain eye problems, some of which can be serious if left untreated. These issues can affect their vision and overall quality of life.

Common eye problems in Yorkie terriers:

• Dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca): A condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
• Cherry eye: A protrusion of the third eyelid, which can cause irritation and affect vision.
• Glaucoma: An increase in pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness.
• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens of the eye, impairing vision.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A hereditary condition that causes degeneration of the retina, leading to blindness.

Symptoms of eye problems:

Symptoms of eye problems can vary depending on the specific condition, but some common signs include:

• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Redness or swelling of the eyes
• Cloudy or opaque eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Squinting or pawing at the eyes
• Vision loss or blindness

Treatment of eye problems:

Treatment for eye problems in Yorkie terriers can range from simple measures to more complex procedures, depending on the condition:

• Artificial tears: For dry eye, artificial tears can help lubricate the eyes and reduce irritation.
• Surgery: For cherry eye, surgery may be necessary to reposition the third eyelid.
• Medications: Medications can be used to lower pressure in the eye for glaucoma or to reduce inflammation.
• Cataract surgery: For cataracts, surgery may be necessary to remove the cloudy lens and improve vision.

Prevention of eye problems:

While some eye problems are genetically predisposed, regular eye exams by a veterinarian can help detect early signs of issues and allow for timely treatment. You should also be aware of any breed-specific eye conditions.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing vision loss and maintaining your Yorkie’s quality of life.

Allergies in Yorkie Terriers

Allergies are common in Yorkie terriers, and they can range from mild skin irritations to severe respiratory problems. Understanding the different types of allergies and their symptoms is essential for providing proper care.

Types of allergies:

Yorkie terriers can develop allergies to various substances, including:

• Food allergies: Reactions to certain ingredients in their diet, such as beef, chicken, dairy, or wheat.
• Environmental allergies: Reactions to allergens in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or grass.
• Contact allergies: Reactions to substances that come into contact with the skin, such as shampoos, detergents, or flea medications.

Symptoms of allergies:

Symptoms of allergies in Yorkie terriers can vary depending on the type and severity of the allergy, but common signs include:

• Skin problems: Itchiness, redness, scaling, hair loss, and hot spots.
• Respiratory problems: Sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Vomiting, diarrhea, and gas.
• Ear infections: Redness, swelling, and discharge from the ears.

Treatment of allergies:

Treating allergies in Yorkie terriers involves identifying the allergen and avoiding it whenever possible. Other treatment options may include:

• Medicines: Antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications can help manage allergy symptoms.
• Hypoallergenic diets: For food allergies, a veterinarian can recommend a hypoallergenic diet to eliminate potential allergens.
• Environmental control: Reducing exposure to environmental allergens can help minimize symptoms.
• Immunotherapy: In some cases, immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be used to build up tolerance to specific allergens.

Prevention of allergies:

While not all allergies can be prevented, you can take steps to minimize the risk:

• Regular grooming: Regular grooming can help remove allergens from your Yorkie’s coat.
• Air purifiers: Using air purifiers can reduce the concentration of airborne allergens in your home.
• Avoidance of allergens: Identifying and avoiding specific allergens can help prevent reactions.

Managing allergies in Yorkie terriers requires patience and a close relationship with your veterinarian. By working together, you can help your furry friend live a comfortable and happy life.

What Are Some Common Yorkie Terrier Health Problems?

Yorkie terriers, despite their small size and big personalities, are prone to certain health issues. Understanding these common health problems can help you provide preventative care and address any concerns early on. Here are some common Yorkie terrier health problems to be aware of:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, particularly in puppies and seniors.
• Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement, a common orthopedic condition in small breeds.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): A condition where blood bypasses the liver, leading to a buildup of toxins.
• Dental Issues: Plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss, often due to crowded teeth.
• Eye Problems: Dry eye, cherry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy.
• Allergies: Reactions to food, environmental, or contact allergens, leading to skin, respiratory, or gastrointestinal problems.

Being vigilant about your Yorkie’s health and seeking regular veterinary care can help detect and address these issues early on, improving their overall well-being and longevity.

How Can I Prevent Common Yorkie Terrier Health Problems?

While some health problems are genetically predisposed, there are many steps you can take to prevent common Yorkie terrier health issues and ensure your furry friend lives a long and happy life.

• Responsible Breeding: Choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for genetic health conditions, reducing the risk of inheriting certain diseases.
• Proper Nutrition: Feed your Yorkie a high-quality diet tailored to their age and activity level. This helps maintain a healthy weight and provides essential nutrients for optimal health.
• Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule annual veterinary checkups, including dental examinations, to detect early signs of health problems and provide preventative care.
• Dental Care: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly, at least once a day, to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Consider dental chews or toys to help maintain good oral hygiene.
• Eye Care: Observe your Yorkie’s eyes for any signs of irritation, redness, or discharge. Schedule regular eye exams by a veterinarian, especially if your Yorkie has a breed-specific eye condition.
• Exercise and Weight Management: Encourage regular exercise appropriate for their age and health. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints and promotes overall well-being.
• Allergen Control: Identify and avoid potential allergens in their environment, such as food, dust mites, or pollen. Regular grooming can help remove allergens from their coat.

By implementing these preventative measures and establishing a strong relationship with your veterinarian, you can significantly reduce the risk of common Yorkie terrier health problems and ensure your beloved companion enjoys a long and fulfilling life.

How Can I Spot Common Yorkie Terrier Health Problems Early?

Early detection is crucial for managing Yorkie terrier health problems effectively. Being aware of common symptoms can help you identify potential issues promptly and seek veterinary care. Here’s a guide to spotting common Yorkie terrier health problems early:

• Hypoglycemia: Look for weakness, lethargy, shaking, seizures, loss of coordination, and collapse, especially in puppies and seniors.
• Patellar Luxation: Observe for limping, skipping gait, holding the leg up, pain when manipulating the leg, and clicking or popping sounds in the knee joint.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): Watch for stunted growth, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, urinary problems, seizures, behavioral changes, and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice).
• Dental Issues: Be alert for bad breath, red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, difficulty chewing, loss of appetite, and drooling.
• Eye Problems: Pay attention to excessive tearing or discharge, redness or swelling of the eyes, cloudy or opaque eyes, sensitivity to light, squinting, pawing at the eyes, and vision loss or blindness.
• Allergies: Observe for itchiness, redness, scaling, hair loss, hot spots, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, and ear infections.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

Early intervention is vital for managing Yorkie terrier health problems successfully and ensuring a happy and healthy life for your furry companion.

Table Summarizing Common Yorkie Terrier Diseases

Disease	Symptoms	Causes	Treatment	Prevention
Hypoglycemia	Weakness, lethargy, shaking, seizures, loss of coordination, collapse	Inadequate milk intake, infrequent feedings, liver disease, diabetes	Glucose administration, treatment of underlying cause	Frequent feeding, high-quality diet, weight management
Patellar Luxation	Limping, skipping gait, holding the leg up, pain, clicking or popping sounds	Inherited predisposition, developmental issues, trauma	Weight management, rest, pain medication, physical therapy, surgery	Responsible breeding, avoid excessive exercise, maintain a healthy weight
Portosystemic Shunt	Stunted growth, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, urinary problems, seizures, behavioral changes, jaundice	Congenital malformations, acquired conditions (liver disease)	Dietary management, medications, surgery	Regular veterinary checkups, monitor for signs of the condition
Dental Issues	Bad breath, red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, difficulty chewing, loss of appetite, drooling	Breed predisposition, poor oral hygiene, diet	Professional dental cleaning, tooth extraction, antibiotics	Regular brushing, dental chews, dental diets, annual dental checkups
Eye Problems	Excessive tearing or discharge, redness or swelling, cloudy eyes, sensitivity to light, squinting, pawing at eyes, vision loss	Dry eye, cherry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, PRA	Artificial tears, surgery, medications, cataract surgery	Regular eye exams, be aware of breed-specific conditions
Allergies	Itchiness, redness, scaling, hair loss, hot spots, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, ear infections	Food allergies, environmental allergies, contact allergies	Medicines, hypoallergenic diets, environmental control, immunotherapy	Regular grooming, air purifiers, avoidance of allergens

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie terrier diseases and how to spot them early:

What are the most common signs of a sick Yorkie terrier?

Some common signs of a sick Yorkie terrier include:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Changes in urination or defecation habits
• Coughing or sneezing
• Redness or swelling in the eyes or ears
• Skin problems, such as itching or hair loss
• Behavioral changes, such as excessive barking or hiding
• Difficulty breathing
• Limping or lameness

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.

How often should I take my Yorkie terrier to the vet?

It’s recommended to take your Yorkie terrier to the vet for annual checkups and dental cleanings. Additionally, you should schedule appointments if you notice any signs of illness or injury.

What are some things I can do to keep my Yorkie terrier healthy?

Here are some tips for keeping your Yorkie terrier healthy:

• Feed them a high-quality diet appropriate for their age and activity level.
• Provide them with regular exercise, but avoid excessive exertion, especially in puppies and senior dogs.
• Maintain a healthy weight by monitoring their food intake and providing them with opportunities to burn calories.
• Brush their teeth regularly to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
• Schedule annual veterinary checkups to detect health issues early on.

Can I prevent all Yorkie terrier health problems?

Unfortunately, you can’t prevent all Yorkie terrier health problems, especially those that are genetically predisposed. However, by following preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of many common issues.

What should I do if I think my Yorkie terrier has a health problem?

If you suspect your Yorkie terrier may have a health problem, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment.

Are Yorkie terriers generally healthy dogs?

Yes, Yorkie terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain breed-specific health issues. By following preventative measures and seeking veterinary care when needed, you can help your Yorkie live a long and healthy life.

How can I tell if my Yorkie terrier is happy and healthy?

A happy and healthy Yorkie terrier will typically have a good appetite, a shiny coat, bright eyes, and an energetic and playful personality. They will also be free from excessive itching, coughing, sneezing, or limping. If you notice any changes in your Yorkie’s behavior or appearance, it’s best to contact your veterinarian.