Yorkshire Terrier Breed Guide

The Yorkshire Terrier is a surprisingly robust little dog for its size — with a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years, a Yorkie can be your companion for well over a decade. That longevity comes with a small list of health considerations every owner should understand from the start, not just when something goes wrong.

Dental health is the single biggest ongoing concern with Yorkies. Their small mouths pack a lot of teeth into very little space, which leads to crowding, rapid plaque buildup, and early tooth loss. Regular at-home brushing combined with annual professional dental cleanings is not optional for this breed — it’s one of the most important things you can do to protect their long-term health.

One condition that consistently surprises first-time Yorkie owners is their sensitivity to general anesthesia. Their small size means standard drug doses can have a much stronger effect. Always inform your vet that your dog is a Yorkshire Terrier before any procedure requiring sedation — a knowledgeable vet will adjust the protocol accordingly and monitor recovery closely.

Many families who chose a Yorkie through Euro Puppy have told us that eye irritations and rear-limb weakness were the health surprises they least expected. Eye irritations are usually manageable with regular checks and gentle cleaning. Rear-limb weakness, sometimes caused by herniated discs or spinal issues, can occur in some dogs — early diagnosis from a vet always leads to the best outcomes.

When choosing your Yorkie puppy, look for a breeder who carries out basic health screenings — including knee and eye evaluations performed by a qualified veterinary specialist. Internationally, programmes under schemes like FCI-affiliated health registries or BVA-endorsed examinations provide a useful reference point, but what matters most is that your breeder is transparent, tests their dogs, and welcomes your questions.