Yorkshire Terrier - Health Characteristics
Dog Breeds
Health issues seen in the Yorkshire Terrier include bronchitis, lymphangiectasia, hepatic lipidosis, cataracts, and keratitis sicca. Yorkies often have a delicate digestive system, with vomiting or diarrhea resulting from consumption of foods outside of a regular diet.
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Overview
The lifespan of a healthy Yorkie is 12 to 15 years. Undersized Yorkies that are three pounds or less generally have a shorter lifespan, as they are especially prone to health problems such as chronic diarrhea and vomiting, are even more sensitive to anesthesia, and are more easily injured.
Health issues often seen in the Yorkshire Terrier include bronchitis, lymphangiectasia, hepatic lipidosis, cataracts, and keratitis sicca. Additionally, injection reactions are common. Yorkies often have a delicate digestive system, with vomiting or diarrhea resulting from consumption of foods outside of a regular diet.
Other Health Considerations
Yorkies are also susceptible to sensitive skin. The most common type of skin conditions Yorkies face are brought on by allergic reactions to seasonal pollen, pollution, food, and sometimes the air itself. Their coats may get very dry due to scratching and biting and eventually leading to significant hair loss.
As a toy dog, the Yorkie is more likely to be injured by falls, other dogs, and owner clumsiness. Due to their small size, Yorkies may be endangered if kept in the house with an undiscerning or abusive person, especially a child. Many breeders and rescue organizations will not allow their Yorkies to go to families with young children, because of the risk it poses to the dog.
Genetic Defects Associated with Yorkshire Terriers
As with many purebred dogs, the Yorkshire Terrier is prone to certain genetic disorders. The following are among the most common congenital defects that affect Yorkies:
- Distichiae
- Hypoplasia of dens
- Legg-Perthes disease
- Luxating patellas
- Portosystemic shunt
- Tracheal collapse