Routine Health Checks for Yorkies

Many small dog breeds, or toy dog breeds share a number of common health issues. Some of these issues can be devastating and some not as serious.

The severity of the health condition tends to get worse if the illness is left untreated – which is the same for us humans as well.

In general Yorkshire Terriers are a healthy dog breed that live 13 – 16 years. Some have undoubtedly lived a while longer than that. This just goes to show that with proper care they can and do live long and therefore are considered a generally healthy dog.

Unfortunately, the smaller the dog the higher the chance of having health ailments. This includes and is especially pertinent to the tiny Teacup Yorkie.

Knowing what to be aware of and look out for is important for you as a responsible and caring owner. The average amount of vet visits per year is more than once. Especially if you notice any of the signs of any of the conditions I will note below.

Prevention is obviously the best form of medicine. However early treatment is important too and will go a long way in helping your Yorkie recover quickly and live a long good life.

A consistent routine of checking your Yorkie’s health is a good practice when it comes to being on top of your Yorkies healthcare. It also creates a good habit which will benefit your Yorkie in the long term.

Yorkshire Terrier breeders recommend the following routine health checks at least once a month.

Weigh your Yorkie

Checking your Yorkies weight is a good way to stay on top of and prevent most negative health reactions. Just like overweight humans, overweight dogs are put at risk of developing many conditions as their body is constantly stressed and pushed to the limit.

A healthy average weight for an average sized Yorkie is 7 pounds or 3.2 kg

If your Yorkie is smaller than average then adjust their weight goals accordingly.

if you don’t know how to weigh your Yorkie, check out this scale from Amazon:

In the event that your Healthy is overweight or is gaining weight, start by either decreasing the amount of food they eat per day little by little, and increasing their physical activity level little by little.

One important note is that if your Yorkie already has digestive issues you’re aware of, do not under any circumstances feed them human food. This includes leftover scraps or under the table treats.

While you are exercising your Yorkie – which includes a walk or sustained playing around the house, make sure to take note of whether their stamina level is changing. You can tell by their tiredness and panting.

In general Yorkies love being in new territories – exploring all the new scents, sights and sounds so you can easily get them good exercise by taking them for a walk.

Do not take them for walks that are too long though because they do not like it and may not tolerate it well.

Groom your Yorkie

Yorkie hair does not fall out on its own, you must either cut it yourself or take it to a highly reputable dog groomer.

Clip your Yorkie’s nails.

Wash your Yorkie from time to time and make sure to clean their ears and around their eyes. Be careful not to obviously hurt their eyes – nobody wants that.

Check their skin condition monthly. Take your fingers and flow it through their hair along their body to feel around for any abnormal patches, growths or lumps.

You do want to be aware of patches of skin for hair loss – this can be caused by mange, fleas or mites. Although Yorkies are not prone to skin conditions – they do happen and it is not unheard of.

A Yorkie that has been in contact with other dogs is more likely to develop these problems. Be aware of this.

Vaccinate your Yorkie according to your breeder and vet recommendations.

Be aware of your Yorkies behaviour and if you note any stark change to their attitude or condition, that does not clear up within one or two days – immediately take him or her to the vet.

Always remember a Yorkie cannot speak English. Or any language for that matter – they cannot speak and let you know how they are feeling, it is up to you to take note of their lifestyle and their behaviour.
So be aware!