Pet Topics

Although there are many benefits to having a Yorkshire Terrier, there are still health problems that you should be aware of. Yorkshire Terrier health problems can either be inherited, congenital or acquired. However, many of Yorkshire Terrier health problems have become a thing of the past due to continued research and selective breeding practices. By knowing about the most common Yorkshire Terrier health problems and recognizing the signs you can make sure your dog has a happy and healthy life.

One common condition that affects many Yorkshire Terriers is portosystemic shunts. This condition causes the blood to flow abnormally around the liver rather than to the liver, which can cause serious problems. Yorkshire Terriers with this condition cannot remove the toxins from their body. This condition can either be congenital or acquired, meaning either the dog is born with the condition or they can develop it later in life. A dog with this condition will be small for their age and breed. Other signs include excessive drinking, frequent urination and after eating they may show signs of depression, muscular incoordination, coma and seizures.
Another of the Yorkshire Terrier health problems is hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is found in the neck and it produces a hormone that helps to speed up metabolism. When the gland stops functioning then hypothyroidism occurs and it is one of the most common hormonal diseases in dogs. Many of the causes for hypothyroidism are still unknown. The only known cause is when the immune system destroys the thyroid gland. Typically the disease will affect middle-aged dogs. Hair loss is typically the first sign and tests will not link the hair loss to any other skin condition. Other symptoms that may occur include weight gain, muscle loss, lethargy and a tendency to seek heat. Often times the signs are attributed simply to the aging process of the dog and medical care is not sought. While it is not a life threatening condition, it can severely effect the pets quality of life and reduce the their overall number of years.
The last of the most common Yorkshire Terrier health problems that you want to educate yourself about is renal failure. The kidneys help to clear all toxins from the blood and to conserve water if a pet doesn’t drink enough. When the kidneys begin to deteriorate a serious medical condition known as chronic renal failure results and can eventually lead to serious health problems. Chronic renal disease is caused by a variety of inherited and acquired disorders. Although the condition typically mimics nearly every other health condition since the signs are very vague. The condition is typically found in middle-aged to older Yorkshire Terriers. Excessive drinking or urination, weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting or general signs that your pet isn’t feeling well are some signs to watch out for. If diagnosed soon enough the progression of the disease can be slowed by dietary means. Your veterinarian will be able to help you choose a diet that has reduced protein, phosphorous and salt.

The ability to recognize common health problems is an important part of Yorkshire Terrier care. You also want to be aware of when you should seek emergency care for your Yorkshire Terrier.