Yorkie Pregnancy Information

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and many Yorkie owners have interest in breeding their dog. Pregnancy in Yorkies can be both exciting and worrisome for Yorkie owners.

  1. Breeding Your Yorkie

    • Before breeding a Yorkie, you should have proof of vaccinations and a pedigree chart. Many breeders work hard at maintaining the integrity of the breed, only breeding those dogs that meet the AKC Yorkshire Terrier Standard. Have your dog checked for diseases before breeding her, as some diseases can transfer to the puppies during pregnancy or birth.

    Signs of Pregnancy

    • Pregnancy in a Yorkshire Terrier lasts only about 63 days from conception, according to the York Info Center website, so a veterinarian should examine your dog as soon as you notice signs of pregnancy. First signs of pregnancy include sleepiness and sluggish behavior, quick expansion of the stomach, fast nipple growth and cleaning herself much more often than before.

    Care During Pregnancy

    • It is recommended that your veterinarian supervise the stages of your dog's pregnancy. Anyone who handles a pregnant Yorkie should be gentle with her. She will need a soft, quiet place to rest and will probably spend more and more time resting as labor approaches. A pregnant dog needs puppy food, both for the extra nutrition for herself as well as the growing puppies.