Some of the more common health issues seen in all types of Yorkie dogs, including Teacup Yorkies are also seen in other breeds of toy and small dogs.
Often these health conditions are not life threatening but can become more serious if left untreated for longer periods of time. Yorkshire Terriers are generally a healthy breed, although the smaller dogs, including the very tiny Teacup Yorkies are more prone to most health conditions than the larger and Yorkie dogs in the breed.
Knowing what to look for and understanding the first signs of some of the more common medical conditions for Yorkie dogs is important for the owner. Yorkie dogs will often need to go to the vet more than once a year, especially if any of the conditions described below are noted. Keep in mind that early treatment will often be the most effective way to manage or treat health conditions in Yorkie dogs.
Getting into a routine that allows you to check Yorkshire Terriers overall health and wellness on a regular, routine basis is important. There are checks that need to be done daily and weekly for Yorkie dogs, however there are also checks that can be done once a month. The following health checks are recommended by Yorkie breeders on a monthly basis:
It is a good idea to weigh your Yorkie once a month. Overweight Yorkie dogs, like overweight humans, have greater risks for many health conditions. Weighing Yorkie dogs will help you monitor if it is eating properly and not overeating.
If you notice that the dog is gaining weight, try decreasing the food a bit at a time, cutting out the table scraps or treats, and increasing exercise. Yorkie dogs, especially those with digestive problems, should not be fed any types of human food or table scraps under any conditions.
Spend time exercising with your dog and note if there are any changes in the Yorkie dogs stamina or general fitness level. Yorkie dogs enjoy a moderate amount of exercise, but is an idea dog for in an apartment as their small size makes it possible for them to exercise in the house. They love going on walks and investigating new territories, as well as playing and running, but do not enjoy excessive amounts of either of these activities. It is important to provide a wide variety of exercise for the Yorkie dogs to keep them active.
Trim your dogs nails, clean their ears and eyes and check the condition of their skin at least once a month. Run your hands completely over the dog to check for any swellings, tumors or growths. Watch for dry or scaly patches on the skin or hair loss. These can be signs of fleas, mites or mange conditions. Yorkshire Terriers are not prone to skin allergies, but they do occur. Fleas and mites are common in any breed of dog and can easily be transmitted from contact with infected dogs or environments.
Schedule regular vet visits for Yorkie dogs – adults or puppies. Follow all vaccination schedules and report any changes in your Yorkie dogs behavior or condition to the vet if they do not clear up in 24-48 hours. The old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is really crucial when working with Yorkie dogs. They don’t have the ability to talk for themselves; they have to rely on your attention to them to note if they are not well or need any changes in their environment. Acting sooner rather than later will catch any problems before they lead to larger complications.
Overall well-bred Yorkshire Terriers are typically very healthy dogs, even with their diminutive size. However often Teacup Yorkies, which are very small version of the standard and toy Yorkshire Terriers are more likely to have serious health problems. All sizes of Yorkie dogs can develop health problems, many which are similar to other small, medium and even large breeds of dogs.
Working with reputable Yorkie breeders is the best possible way to minimize the risk of disease or genetic problems with Yorkie dogs. It is still important for all owners to ensure that their Yorkie dogs have routine yearly vet checks and vaccinations to ensure they are healthy and detect any medical conditions at an early stage.
Sharda Baker is an industry established dog writer. She has successfully published several dog books including The Insiders Guide To A Happy, Healthy & Well Behaved Yorkshire Terrier.
Get your complimentary Yorkshire Terrier Online Course, and numerous free articles, by visiting Sharda’s blog today.
Author: Sharda Baker
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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