yorkie health problems

Genetic health problems in Yorkies

Some of the conditions and illnesses that plague Yorkies

The Yorkshire Terrier was first bred to hunt and kill rats in factories in Northern England in the 1800s, so these dogs are no wimps.

However, every breed suffers from innate problems -- the Golden Retriever for example, can develop hip dysplasia, a very painful condition that can make walking nearly impossible as Goldens get older.

• Hypoglycaemia

  or sudden low blood sugar, is another serious threat to Yorkies, especially the "Teacup Yorkie" Hypoglycaemia occurs when the blood sugar levels (glucose) fall below normal. Glucose is what the body uses as fuel and is necessary for the brain tissue and muscles to function.
  Hypoglycemia is common in Toy breeds and frequently seen in young Toy puppies. The affected puppy may appear confused, disoriented, drowsy, have the shivers, stagger, collapse, fall into a coma, or have seizures. Typical signs include listlessness, depression, staggering gait, muscle weakness and tremors. Hypoglycemia must be treated immediately.
  
  Usually by the time a Yorkie outgrows puppyhood he or she is also out of danger that Hypoglycaemia will strike. However very small Yorkies, may suffer all their lives.

  Treat Hypoglycaemia right away!
  * Keep Corn Syrup on hand
  * If your puppy is showing symptoms, rub the corn syrup on the puppy's gums, under the tongue, and on the roof of the mouth.
  * Warm the puppy against your body.
  * The puppy should revive quickly if not, call the Vet immediately - and let him know you have a Hypoglycaemic pup -- your Yorkie is in serious danger.

• Collapsing Trachea

  Collapsing Trachea is common in many Toy breeds. Symptoms usually don't appear until the dog is around 5, and include coughing, fatigue, shortness of breath, gasping for air and "honking."
  
  The trachea or windpipe, is held open by rings of cartilage -- when the cartilage weakens, the trachea begins to collapse and the amount of air that can get through is severely restricted.This restricted airflow puts big stress on the heart and lungs. A dog with a collapsed trachea usually can't exercise without having problems and in some severe cases, may even pass out from lack of air. Heat, humidity and excitement will make the problem worse.The dog will have trouble breathing and may try to vomit to clear his airway.
  
  Cause? The cartilage defect that leads to the flattened rings seems to be hereditary. However it's a good idea to use a harness instead of a collar if your Yorkie pulls at the leash, to avoid making the condition worse.
  
  Treatment options vary according to the severity of the condition. Some dogs may require stabilization with medications while others may need surgery.

• Cushing's disease

  Canine Cushing's is a serious threat and unfortunately Yorkies are high on the list of susceptible breeds.
  
  Cushing's disease happens when the normal hormonal feedback loop goes crazy -- and too much cortisone, a natural steroid hormone, is produced by the adrenal glands. It's a common condition in older dogs, often mistaken for the aging process itself -- because the dog will gain weight, lose hair, pee in the house and so on. (Don't mistake Cushing's disease for aging, because canine Cushing's can be treated). Typical symptoms include increased thirst and urination, panting, hair loss (usually on the body) and weakness. Your vet will likely prescribe medication, depending on the specific cause of the Cushing's.

• Patella Luxation - also known as slipping kneecaps

  is quite common in Yorkies and can be spotted when the dog lifts one or other hind leg when walking or running. You can sometimes 'feel' the kneecap popping. Limit your Yorkie jumping off furniture as much as you can, and keep your Yorkie's weight on the low side.... definitely not chubby! If the condition seems to be getting worse, see your Vet. She can examine the dog and let you know where the pup is on the 4-grade scale of luxation.
  
  Enforced rest or drug can often help reduce this problem -- many Yorkie owners whose pets have suffered from this condition, say surgery is not at all helpful. Treatment with steroidal anti-inflammatories can be very damaging to the immune system, have awful side effects (short and long term), and many owners feel these drugs should never be used.
  
  For some real in-depth info, see the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website

• Legg-Calve-Perthes (LCP)

  LCP is a painful disease of the hip joint, where blood flow seems restricted to this area and the joint begins to disintegrate. LCP is more common in toy breeds - showing up between 6 and 12 months of life -- but it also attacks children. LCP causes limping, pain, and eventually, arthritis. Treatment varies depending on how serious it seems. In mild cases, enforced rest may be sufficient to allow healing while more severe cases may require surgery.