Top 5 Health Concerns for Yorkies and Yorkie Mixes

Yorkshire Terriers—and pups mixed with Yorkies—may be tiny, but they’re full of personality, energy, and love. Our team at Welleby Veterinary Hospital loves caring for these spirited companions and understands how much their families value their health and happiness. Like all breeds, Yorkies have a few common health challenges that owners should be aware of. Here are the top five concerns we frequently see in our practice and how we can help catch them early: 

1. Dental Disease 

Yorkies are particularly prone to dental disease because of their small mouths and tightly packed teeth. Crowded teeth trap food and bacteria easily, leading to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and eventual tooth loss. Dental disease is one of the most common issues we see in this breed. 

Bad breath is often the first warning sign. More advanced dental problems may cause pain, difficulty eating, or infections that affect the heart and kidneys. Preventive care is key to keeping your Yorkie’s mouth—and overall health—in great shape. 

How we can help: 

• Oral exam – We check for plaque, gum inflammation, alignment issues, and damaged or crowded teeth. 
• Dental X-rays – Essential for spotting hidden issues like infection under the gumline, bone loss, or root damage. 
• Professional cleaning – Under-anesthesia cleanings allow us to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar, protect the airway, and treat problematic teeth safely. 
• Home care guidance – We can recommend brushing routines, dental diets, and safe chews to maintain dental health. 

2. Luxating Patella (Kneecap Dislocation) 

Yorkies are commonly affected by medial patellar luxation (MPL), where the kneecap slips in and out of place. This can cause your dog to suddenly skip steps, hop on one leg, or

occasionally hold a hind limb up. Some Yorkies show no discomfort, while others may limp or avoid running and jumping. 

Milder cases may be managed with lifestyle changes, while more severe luxations can lead to arthritis or long-term mobility issues and may require surgery. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We assess the kneecap for looseness or abnormal movement. 
• X-rays – Help evaluate severity and detect secondary issues like inflammation or early arthritis. 
• Treatment planning – Depending on the grade, we may recommend supplements, weight control, or surgical correction. 

3. Collapsed Trachea (Windpipe Weakness) 

Yorkies are especially prone to tracheal collapse—a condition where the windpipe weakens and narrows, making it difficult for air to pass through. This leads to a distinctive “honking” cough, often triggered by excitement, exercise, or pulling on the leash. 

While manageable, untreated tracheal collapse may worsen over time and cause breathing distress. Early detection helps improve comfort and outcomes. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen to breathing patterns and gently assess for coughing or throat sensitivity. 
• X-rays – Help identify signs of tracheal narrowing. 
• Fluoroscopy – A real-time moving X-ray that shows how the trachea behaves during breathing. 
• Ongoing care – Treatment may include cough suppressants, medications, weight management, or lifestyle changes to reduce airway irritation. 

4. Eye Problems (Dryness, Injury & Pressure Issues)

Yorkies have expressive, prominent eyes that are more exposed and prone to injuries, irritation, and dryness. Long facial hair can rub against the eyes, while debris or rough play can lead to scratches or ulcers. Common signs of eye trouble include squinting, pawing at the face, redness, discharge, or swelling. 

Without early treatment, eye issues can progress to pain, vision loss, or permanent damage. Routine eye exams help catch problems early. 

How we can help: 

• Tear test – Checks for dry eye, which can cause chronic irritation and infection. ● Fluorescein dye test – Highlights scratches, ulcers, or corneal injuries. 
• Eye pressure test (Tonometry) – Measures pressure to screen for glaucoma, a serious and potentially sight-threatening condition. 

5. Liver Shunts (Portosystemic Shunt – PSS) 

Yorkies are genetically predisposed to liver shunts, a condition where blood bypasses the liver, preventing proper filtration of toxins. This causes waste to build up in the bloodstream, affecting overall health—especially the nervous system. 

Signs often appear early in life and may include poor growth, lethargy, confusion, staring episodes, or even seizures. Early detection greatly improves long-term outlook. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam & bloodwork – Routine testing helps identify abnormal liver values that may suggest a shunt. 
• Genetic testing – Can reveal hereditary predisposition and support proactive monitoring. 
• Bile acid testing – A specialized test that evaluates how well the liver processes toxins. 
• Ultrasound or advanced imaging – Confirms the presence and location of the shunt to determine whether surgery or medical management is best. 
• Long-term care planning – Includes dietary changes, medications, and guided medical or surgical treatment.

We care for your Yorkie or Yorkie Mix like they’re part of our own family. These little dogs with big personalities deserve the highest-quality care to stay healthy, happy, and thriving. Give us a call at (954) 748-2002 or book online here.