Pocket VetYorkshire Terrier health guide
Yorkshire Terriers are tiny, spirited companions. Their small size brings dental, knee, windpipe, and (rarely) liver issues that need attention.
Size
Toy (2–3.5 kg)
Lifespan
13–16 years
Energy
Moderate
Common health concerns
Dental disease
Tiny crowded mouths get tartar and tooth loss early.
Luxating patella
Slipping kneecaps cause skipping or lameness.
Collapsing trachea
Weak windpipe causes a honking cough; use a harness.
Portosystemic (liver) shunt
A congenital blood-vessel defect; signs include poor growth and disorientation.
Care tips
- ✓Daily dental care and regular cleanings
- ✓Use a harness, never a neck collar
- ✓Keep lean to protect knees
- ✓Feed small, frequent meals to toy puppies (low blood sugar risk)
Worried about your Yorkshire Terrier?
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Check my dog nowSigns that need a vet
- ●Honking cough, especially when excited
- ●Skipping or holding up a back leg
- ●Bad breath, loose or sore teeth
- ●Disorientation, poor growth, or weakness after meals
Frequently asked
Why does my Yorkie cough like a goose honk?
That honking cough often signals a collapsing trachea, common in toy breeds. Use a harness instead of a collar and see your vet — many cases are managed with weight control and medication.
Do Yorkies have a lot of dental problems?
Yes. Their small, crowded mouths are prone to tartar, gum disease, and early tooth loss. Daily brushing and regular professional cleanings are important.
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Pocket Vet editorial team
Written and maintained by the Pocket Vet editorial team using authoritative veterinary sources. Reviewed June 9, 2026. This guide is informational only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care — see our editorial & safety policy. When in doubt, contact your vet; in a true emergency, go to an emergency clinic immediately.
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