Yorkshire terrier health problems

Yorkshire terriers are recognised as being incredibly loyal companions to pet parents around the world, yet they’re also well-known for their powerful personalities!

Despite their dainty size, the Yorkshire terrier still enjoys every opportunity to go on adventures with you, from pet-friendly picnics at the park to taking trips on the train. Don’t be surprised if your Yorkie wants to ‘tell’ you about everything, though – whether someone’s just walked past the house or it’s time for their dinner. If needed, you could check out our top tips on how to manage barking, to help your Yorkie feel calmer.

Yorkies must be brushed daily to prevent their long, silky hair from becoming matted or developing large knots that could cause discomfort. Since your Yorkie may need their coat trimmed to keep them comfortable, you’ll probably have to book regular appointments with a professional groomer, too.

Explore our Yorkshire terrier breed guide for more information about these faithful, little dogs!

Please note: We’ll refer to dogs of the Yorkshire terrier breed as ‘Yorkie’ or ‘Yorkies’ throughout this article.

Potential health conditions linked to the Yorkshire terrier breed

Please remember that while the following health concerns are frequently seen in Yorkshire terriers, each dog is a unique individual. So, your canine companion isn’t necessarily going to suffer from any of the health conditions commonly experienced by Yorkies. But, if you’re considering pet insurance, you could read our guide to insuring your Yorkshire terrier for more information.

Always speak to your vet if you’re concerned about your dog’s health.   

Don’t forget to visit our dog first aid guides to discover the basics of canine first aid.

Dental disease

Some dog breeds, including the Yorkshire terrier, are prone to dental disease.

Most dogs have their full set of 42 permanent adult teeth by the age of around six months, so dental disease could start to develop at any time after this.

Pet parents may prevent dental disease by following vet advice to brush their dog’s teeth, provide dental-care toys, and offer dry dog biscuits as part of a balanced diet. However, certain dog breeds, like Yorkshire terriers, are at higher risk of dental disease due to factors including the shape of their mouth or the way they chew food.

Signs of canine dental disease can be easily missed, since some dogs won’t display symptoms – so, it’s essential to take your Yorkie to a vet for regular dental check-ups. For Yorkies who are suffering from dental disease and do show symptoms, you might notice:

• Bad breath.
• Tartar build-up around their teeth.
• Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums.
• Excessive drooling.
• Repeatedly head shaking or rubbing their face.

In more advanced dental conditions, like periodontal disease (a bacterial infection of the gums and teeth caused by the build-up of plaque), you may notice additional symptoms, including:

• Difficulty eating and/or lack of appetite.
• Swelling around their face.
• Behavioural changes, e.g. refusing to play or irritability.
• Loose teeth.
• Tooth loss.

A vet can diagnose dental disease by examining your Yorkie’s mouth. Sometimes, vets recommend dental x-rays (under general anaesthetic) to assess the health of your Yorkshire terrier’s teeth in more detail.

Usually, canine dental disease is treated by a vet through a scale and polish performed under general anaesthetic. Following a dental procedure, your vet may prescribe pain-relieving medication and/or antibiotics, alongside a long-term aftercare plan for your Yorkie.

Bladder stones

Another potential health concern frequently seen in the Yorkshire terrier breed is bladder stones. Caused by a build-up of minerals in the bladder, that develop into a rock-like form, bladder stones become an emergency when they create a complete blockage.

Straining to pee, peeing more often, and being in pain while peeing could signal that your Yorkie is suffering from bladder stones and needs to be seen by a vet.

Depending on the severity of your Yorkie’s bladder stones, a vet might prescribe a special diet to dissolve the stones or perform surgery to remove any blockages.

Diabetes

Also known as ‘diabetes mellitus’, diabetes is a condition that can affect dogs of the Yorkshire terrier breed.

Usually seen in older dogs, diabetes has an impact on glucose (sugar) levels in your Yorkie’s blood. Symptoms you may notice if your Yorkshire terrier has diabetes could include:

• Increased thirst.
• Increased hunger.
• Peeing more than usual.
• Weight loss.
• Lack of energy.

To treat diabetes, some dogs might require insulin injections, alongside a controlled diet and strict exercise routines.