Yorkshire Terrier Medical Conditions

        For the most part Yorkshire Terriers are hardy healthy dogs.  There are a number of these dogs being reported living for 15 to 16 years, or more.  Yorkies are not, however, without genetically based health problems.  As with any breed of dog, your best chances of a long and healthy life is dependent upon a life-time of good care and obtaining a puppy from a reputable breeder, a dog with an ancestry of sound healthy animals.
        Among the genetic health problems of Yorkshire Terriers are:

Portosystemic Shunts
       This is a congenital liver condition which enables blood flow (partial or full) to bypass the liver during its flow through the circulatory system.  Without the detoxification process of the liver this condition can be fatal.  Most often, surgical correction is required to remedy the situation.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Portosystemic Shunts.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
        Due to insufficient blood supply, the head of the femur (thighbone) begins to die and disintegrate.  Due to the fact that, this condition is more common within some family bloodlines, than others, it is believed that the tendency to develop this condition is hereditary.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

Tracheal Collapse
        Tracheal collapse is due to a weakness in the windpipe.  This condition tends to occur more often in some family bloodlines, than others. In looking to purchase a Yorkie pup, be sure that the "family" is healthy, sound and long-lived.
For more information please see: Medical Index/Tracheal Collapse.
 

Luxating Patellas (Slipping Kneecaps)
        Luxating patellas is a common fault in Yorkshire Terriers.  This condition can either be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (trauma induced).  Be sure that both parents are certified "clear" of this condition, and that care is taken with the puppy to avoid damaging its knees.
For more information please see: Medical Index/Luxating Patellas.
Return to Yorkshire Terrier Directory
Return to Bark Bytes Home
copyright and disclaimer
All rights reserved. No part of this publication shall be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission from Bark Bytes, Inc.