Care
Grooming
Regular grooming is needed. A
clipped coat needs daily to weekly combing and brushing. Topknot is usually tied
back with ribbon. Full show coats need hours of grooming and pet owners usually
choose to clip them short giving them a shaggy look. They should have their
teeth cleaned regularly. This breed sheds little to no hair.
Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years
Height: 6-7 inches
(15-17½cm.)
Weight: 7 pounds (3.2kg.)
Exercise
These are
active little dogs, who need a
daily walk. Play will take care of a lot
of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, it will not fulfill their
primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more
likely to display behavior problems. If your Yorkie zooms around the house like
a speeding bullet, it is a sign that he needs to go on more/longer walks where
he is made to heel beside or behind the human. Remember, in a dogs mind, the
leader leads the way. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off
lead, such as a large fenced in yard.
Health Issues To Be Concerened With
Some Yorkies are prone to slipped stifle, bronchitis, eye infections, and early
tooth decay, poor tolerance of anaesthetic, and delicate digestion. Exotic
treats should be avoided. They sometimes suffer paralysis in the hindquarters
caused by herniated disks and other problems of the spine. Falls or knocks can
cause fractures of fragile bones. Abnormal skull formations in Yorkies measuring
less then 8 inches (20cm). Dams often have trouble delivering puppies and
sometimes need to have a cesarean. Be sure to feed Yorkies some type of dry food
or bone to chew on to help keep their teeth clean and strong. They should get
their teeth cleaned at the Vet to keep them from falling out and creating
infection.