The Yorkshire Terrier is a widely loved companion breed that spread around the world not long after its creation. But like many selectively bred purebred dogs, it may carry inherited defects that make some diseases more likely. Respiratory and skeletal weaknesses are two important areas to consider before choosing the breed.
Common Yorkshire Terrier Diseases
Double rows of teeth: Yorkshire Terriers often have retained baby teeth. During tooth replacement, the owner should watch carefully to see whether the baby teeth fall out. If the teeth become crowded or form double rows, a veterinary check is needed. Mild cases may be left alone, but if the bite is affected, tooth extraction may have to be considered.
Dislocation: Small breeds are prone to habitual joint dislocation, often because of repeated jumping. Owners should therefore avoid overly intense movement and also prevent the dog from frequently leaping off furniture or high places indoors.
Tracheal collapse: This is a common disease in many small breeds and also a common problem in Yorkshire Terriers. It can cause wheezing or breathing difficulty and may produce a honking, goose-like sound. If this appears, the dog should be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Skin disease: Yorkshire Terriers easily develop skin problems because of unsuitable food, incomplete coat cleaning, or living in damp conditions. Common signs include bad smell and hair loss. Besides choosing the right food, owners should maintain careful coat cleaning and avoid indoor dampness.
Another important point is that Yorkshire Terriers are among the smallest dog breeds in the world, only slightly larger than Chihuahuas. Because of this, they carry some dwarf-type genetic tendencies. In breeding, female Yorkies may occasionally give birth to severely deformed dwarf puppies that are much smaller than normal and usually cannot survive. For that reason, it is generally better not to breed Yorkshire Terriers casually at home.