Yorkie Diseases

Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies as they are commonly called, are a small dog with long flowing hair. Like all breeds of dogs, there are certain diseases that are more common in their breed than in others. Some of these diseases are minor and preventable if proper steps are taken. Other diseases are much more serious, and when symptoms occur, veterinarian help will be needed.

  1. Portosystemic Shunts

    • In healthy dogs the blood stream carries toxins and toxin byproducts to the liver. A Yorkie suffering from portosystemic shunts suffers from toxins and toxin by products not being transported to the liver by the blood stream. This disease can lead to multiple health issues. Yorkshire terriers with this condition will be small for their age. They will also frequently drink water and urinate often. Dogs with this health issues can also suffer from hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic encephalopathy is when ammonia is not being cleansed by the liver. It occurs shortly after a dog eats, and can result in depression, seizures, coma and lack of coordination.

    Hydrocephalus

    • Hydrocephalus normally occurs in small dogs including Yorkies. Hydrocephalus is a neurological disease that causes excess fluids to develop around the brain and can occur in dogs of all ages. Normal amounts of fluid are there to protect the brain, but too much fluid can lead to the head bulging and can cause brain damage. This disease can be caused by infections, tumors or trauma or can be present as a birth defect. Common symptoms include crying, difficulty walking, eye problems, seizures and difficulty walking.

    Dental Diseases

    • Yorkies and other small dogs are often susceptible to dental diseases. Yorkies have a small mouth and jaw, which can lead to teeth becoming crowded and not falling out naturally. When tooth crowding occurs, plaque and food build up on the teeth. This build up will lead to bacteria forming and possibly periodontal disease. Periodontal disease will lead to bleeding gums and the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body including the heart or lungs. Simple preventative methods such as brushing teeth can be done to prevent dental diseases.

    Canine Hypothyroidism

    • One of the most common hormonal diseases diagnosed by veterinarians is canine hypothyroidism. All mammals, including Yorkies, have a thyroid gland, and when that gland stops producing hormones properly, a dog will suffer from canine hypothyroidism. This disease can occur in any breed, and normally effects middle aged dogs. The most common symptom is hair loss, but other symptoms include weight gain, muscle loss and sluggishness. This is not a life threatening disease and it can be diagnosed through a series of blood tests. Once tested, treatment options are available.