How Much Care Does a Yorkie Need?

A Yorkie, also known as Yorkshire terrier, is a toy dog breed that is extremely energetic and outgoing. Yorkies are suitable for apartment living and were the third most popular dog breed in 2010, according to AKC Dog Registration Statistics. If you are planning to get a Yorkie, you should be informed about the amount of care the dog needs, and decide if it is suitable for your lifestyle. Typically, all Yorkies require grooming and little exercise, but each Yorkie may have specific problems that require additional care.

  1. Yorkie Diet

    • Yorkshire terriers may get dry or wet food or you may prepare meals at home, but consult your veterinarian to include all needed nutrients for the pet's well-being. Feed small amounts of food and no more than three meals a day. Give your pet treats, but limit the amount of treats to prevent your pet from becoming overweight. Avoid rawhide or bones as treats, because these may cause complications, such as chocking or organ puncture.

    Yorkie Grooming

    • Yorkies have long coats that require regular brushing and baths. The brushing prevents matting and spreads the essential oils produced by the skin to the coat, preserving its sheen and silky appearance. Clean the dog's ears and eyes at least once per week. Coat trimming is also necessary to give the dog the freedom to move. Trim the coat to floor length or choose a short cut during warmer months. Daily teeth brushing is recommended to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.

    Exercise and Socialization

    • Yorkies are toy dogs and typically weight less than 7 lbs. For this reason, they don't need too much daily exercise and they can easily get their exercise indoors, so they adapt well to indoor living. Yorkshire terriers require daily socialization and need to interact with people. Provide your dog with a wide range of toys, ensuring the size and roughness of the toys is suitable and won't cause jaw fractures. Allow your pet to take naps, because it needs to restore its energy.

    Veterinary Visits

    • Yorkies are easy to transport to the veterinarian due to their size, and a small kennel is suitable for transportation purposes. During the first year of the dog's life, you need to take your pet to get its core vaccinations. The first vaccinations are administered when the puppy is six to eight weeks old, and boosters are given over the following weeks until the puppy is four months old. If you choose not to breed your pet, neuter it after it is six months old. After the first year, visit the veterinarian at least once a year for booster vaccines.

    Special Care

    • Depending on the health of your Yorkie, you may have to spend more time and care for your pet. Yorkies may be affected by acute or chronic diseases. Keep an eye on your pet's behavior and detect symptoms such as dry, pale gums, elevated temperature (over 101 degrees F), behavior changes, lethargy, agitation, vomiting or diarrhea to get immediate treatment and prevent complications.