Do Yorkies Have Delivering Complications?

Breeding any bitch presents the possibility of losing both the mother and the puppies. Some breeds, such as bulldogs, generally require a Caesarean, due to their large heads and wide chests. Other breeds commonly develop problems during delivery, including tiny dogs such as Yorkshire terriers, according to the Animal Specialty and Emergency Hospital. Breeders need to consider the risks to the bitch, know the signs of birthing problems and prepare for the medical expenses related to complications.

  1. Bitch Size

    • Standard Yorkshire terriers weigh between 4 and 7 lbs. Like other small dogs, their tiny size may cause issues with maintaining normal body functions during pregnancy. Yorkshire terriers may develop eclampsia, a condition common with small dogs and with dogs given calcium supplements during pregnancy, according to Churchville Veterinarian Centre. The problem occurs when the bitch cannot handle the amount of calcium needed to produce milk, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Typically, the problem occurs after birth but may present prior to delivery,

    Health

    • A healthy delivery requires energy, and the chances of a positive outcome increase with healthy bitches. Bitches infested with parasites, such as mites and worms, have increased risk of developing problems during delivery due to poor health. Tiny dogs, like Yorkies, can lose significant blood from flea infestation. Treating the bitch prior to whelping also decreases the puppies from exposure, according to PetEduction.com. A fever, green or colored discharge, or a foul-smelling discharge indicate an infection, which increases delivery problems.

    Litter Size

    • The small size of a Yorkie creates delivery complications when the litter contains a larger number of puppies or a very large puppy. The crowding condition, strain on the uterus and exhaustion from delivering a large litter increase chances for difficult childbirth in the Yorkshire terrier. A single puppy may result in too little hormone release to stimulate a normal delivery. An X-ray or ultrasound may help estimate the number and size of puppies to evaluate the need for Caesarean delivery or veterinarian assistance, according to the Animal Specialty and Emergency Hospital.

    Prevention

    • Owners of some breeds that are prone to uterine inertia or problems pushing puppies out the birth canal may want to consider planning a Caesarean, recommends D. Caroline Coile, writer and owner of Canine Research and Writing. A planned Cesarean avoids risks associated with delivery problems, makes surgery during regular veterinary hours possible, thus avoiding emergency hour costs, and increases puppy survival rates, according to Coile.