Six Common Yorkie Health Problems to Watch For

Yorkshire Terriers, like other dogs, are at risk of developing breed-specific health issues. Common Yorkie health problems fall into three categories: congenital, genetic, and acquired. Even getting a dog from a careful breeder may not prevent inherited conditions, as genes can skip several generations. You may not be able to control your dog from developing a problem, but if you recognize the signs of common Yorkie health problems, you can help your Yorkie get a faster diagnosis and start treatment.

1. Hypoglycemia

While most problems hit dogs in their older years, hypoglycemia is one of the few common health problems in Yorkies that typically appears young. Hypoglycemia is deficient blood sugar levels. This acquired condition occurs more in Yorkshire Terriers and other toy dogs than in other dog breeds.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include energy, drowsiness, lethargy, fainting, and weakness. Puppies (up to five months) are commonly affected, but this ailment can surface in adults too. Rubbing sugar or honey on your dog’s gums is a quick fix for hypoglycemia.

You can also feed your Yorkie protein-rich food every few hours. When you take your dog to the vet, they can perform medical tests and create a long-term nutritional plan. More info: http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_dg_low_blood_sugar

2. Legg-Perthes Disease

Legg-Perthes is among the most common health problems in Yorkies. This degenerative genetic disease affects certain Yorkshire Terrier lines more than others. Unlike many degenerative conditions, it is prevalent in younger dogs between five and eight months old.

Legg-Perthes Disease weakens the hip joints by restricting blood flow to the femur. Without that vital blood supply, the hip joint weakens and becomes deformed. The bone collapses, and the cartilage around it cracks. Limping, lameness, and pain can indicate the presence of this disease. Surgery is the standard treatment for this disease, with a good prognosis for recovery.

3. Retinal Dysplasia

In most cases, Retinal Dysplasia is inherited. It can also be caused by damage to the eye from trauma or infection. This condition affects the tissue, or the retina, behind the dog’s eyeball. Vision problems occur as a result. In severe cases, the Yorkshire Terrier becomes completely blind. Dogs diagnosed with Retinal Dysplasia are discouraged from breeding due to the disease’s likelihood of passing to subsequent generations.

In mild cases, the dog has small blind areas and displays few, if any, symptoms. In more severe cases, your dog might stumble on stairs, run into furniture, and have trouble navigating around objects. Retinal Dysplasia is often discovered during a routine annual exam.

A certified Canine Eye Registry Foundation ophthalmologist can also administer an official test. There is no treatment for Retinal Dysplasia, but you can make life easier for your pet by keeping food, toys, and water in the same place, walking along the same routes, and not rearranging furniture.

4. Luxating Patella

Luxating Patella, or kneecap dislocation, is a congenital disability that causes improperly developing tendons, tissues, and ligaments around your Yorkie’s knees. As a result, the joint becomes unstable. When the kneecap slips out of place, your dog might yelp or let out a high-pitched sound. They might walk with a limp, an uneven skipping gait, or have trouble bending their legs.

If left untreated, Luxating Patella can result in your dog losing mobility. Bed rest, usually three to six weeks, is recommended in mild or moderate situations. Your vet might also prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines and encourage you to walk your dog up hills to strengthen the muscles around the knee.

Surgery is reserved for severe or chronic cases and has about a 90 percent success rate.

5. Collapsed Trachea

Collapsed Trachea is a genetic condition that affects Yorkies and other toy dogs. In affected dogs, the cartilage rings around the Trachea are softer and weaker than those in other dogs. They can become tight or collapse as a result.

In addition to genetics, Collapsed Trachea can be caused by blunt force, such as an owner yanking on a young dog’s leash. Symptoms include gagging, labored breathing, noisy breathing, and coughing. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

Your vet might prescribe a low-fat diet if your pet is overweight. Using a harness instead of a leash and collar can alleviate pressure on the Trachea, and medication can be prescribed to reduce swelling. Surgery is performed in advanced cases and has a good prognosis.

6. Liver Shunt

Liver Shunt, or Portosystemic Shunt, is an abnormality in the portal vein. Consequently, blood flow to the liver is impaired, and the livers can’t correctly clean blood. Unclean blood then pushes toxins into vital organs, including the heart and brain.

Symptoms include jaundice, lack of appetite, seizures, muscle weakness, loss of cognitive function and vision, and weight loss. This condition is life-threatening and requires early treatment. Antibiotics and dietary adjustments are recommended in the early stages. Surgery is used to the problem permanently.

Conclusion

Craig

As a lifelong dog lover, I fell in love with Yorkies for their spunky personalities, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty.

As a dedicated Yorkie owner, I have spent years learning about the breed and how to provide the best possible care for them. From finding the proper diet to exercise, and so much more! I take every aspect of my Yorkie’s life seriously.

In addition to being a loving dog parent, I’m an avid blogger, sharing my experiences and insights on all things Yorkie-related. From training tips to grooming advice, Yorkieclothing.com is a go-to resource for other Yorkie owners worldwide.