Toy Yorkie Illnesses

The toy Yorkshire terrier is an active, playful, intelligent and independent dog and is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the U.S. While it is generally a healthy animal, like all breeds, it is susceptible to certain illnesses.

  1. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

    • According to the Central Florida Yorkshire Terrier Club, Legg-Calve-Perthes is an inherited illness in some toy Yorkies. The symptoms can start as early as 4 to 12 months. This is a disease of the hip joint and can cause deformity of the joint ball. The disease shuts off the blood supply to the head of the femur bone. The bone slowly dies causing the cartilage to deform. Arthritis of the hip results from this deformation. Signs of the disease include limping, chewing at the flank and pain when moving the leg. If caught early and treated with cage rest, the leg may heal. However, in its later stages surgery may be needed.

    Tracheal Collapse

    • According to the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine, a common condition of a toy Yorkie is tracheal collapse caused by the weakening of the tracheal ring. Symptoms include a goose honking cough that gets worse in hot weather or when exercising. Lack of oxygen can also cause the Yorkie to faint. A veterinarian can prescribe cough suppressants and antibiotics. Sometime steroids are needed to help the healing process.

    Luxating Patella

    • This is a heredity illness in toy Yorkies where the kneecap slips out of place. The kneecap may pop back into place on its on. However, sometimes a veterinarian may have to put it back in place. According to Wendy Brooks, Educational Director at Veterinary Partners, after the kneecaps pops out of joint, the Yorkie may limp or hold that leg up in the air refusing to put pressure on the limb.

    Hypoglycemia

    • Low blood sugar affects many toy Yorkies. If a Yorkie is experiencing low blood sugar he will become weak and may be unable to stand up. He may also tremble and have a seizure. Wendy Brooks, Educational Director at Veterinary Partners, advises that during an episode to rub sugar--such as in the form of Karo syrup or jelly--on the gums. If the dog does not respond to the sugar, immediately take him to a veterinarian. Make sure to keep him warm by holding him close to your body.

    Retinal Dysplasia

    • According to the Natural Health Dog Remedies website, another inherited illness of the Yorkie breed is retinal dysplasia, an abnormality of the retina. Mild folding of one or more areas of the retina does not cause the Yorkie any problems. However, larger areas of thinning and separation of the retina can cause vision impairment and even blindness. Unfortunately there is no cure or treatment for retinal dysplasia.