How to Care for the Skin of a Yorkie

The skin of a healthy Yorkshire terrier is soft, supple and free from lesions, hot spots and sores. Because of healthy skin, a Yorkie also has a healthy, silky coat free from tangles, mats and debris. However, show-quality skin is possible only with excellent nutrition and routine grooming care to reflect a healthy Yorkie from the inside to the outside. Knowing what constitutes a healthy diet and routine grooming are critical for healthy skin.

Things You'll Need

  • Quality pet food
  • Clean, fresh water
  • Soft pin brush and comb
  • Low-fat treats
  • Oatmeal shampoo and conditioner
  • Skin supplements
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed a quality diet to reduce the chance of allergies and skin disorders. Whole-meat, grain and vegetable ingredients such as lamb, rice and sweet potatoes are sources of omega fatty acids and essential nutrients necessary for healthy skin and coat cell growth.

    • 2

      Supply fresh, clean water twice daily to keep a Yorkie's skin hydrated, making it soft and pliable. Dry skin flakes and itches, creating hot spots and skin sores as a result from scratching.

    • 3

      Wash food and water bowls twice a week with mild dish detergent and warm water to prevent fungus and bacteria from causing skin problems as well.

    • 4

      Incorporate daily and weekly grooming routines using appropriate sized combs and brushes to prevent dry skin and brittle hair. Brushing the coat regularly keeps hair follicles clean, improves circulation and moisturizes the skin and coat with natural oils.

    • 5

      Bathe Yorkies only when necessary. Always use skin-hydrating shampoos and conditioners such as pet-safe oatmeal and herbal blends to nourish dry, flaky skin.

    • 6

      Mist with topical skin and coat conditioners to rehydrate skin between baths.

    • 7

      Exercise Yorkies daily to keep skin tone and elastic.

    • 8

      Offer low-fat treats that include extra skin-softening nutrients such as omega fatty acids, whole-meat protein sources and skin-conditioning vegetables.