Yorkshire Terriers can enjoy active lives, but their small size does not protect them from dental, digestive or orthopedic problems. Similar signs can have different causes, and many Yorkies will never develop the disorders described here.
Teeth and retained baby teeth
A baby tooth sometimes remains in place after its permanent replacement emerges. This is a retained deciduous tooth, which is different from a true extra permanent tooth. Crowding can trap debris and affect the bite. Ask your veterinarian to check the mouth during puppy appointments rather than waiting for an arbitrary age before raising a concern.
Do not pull a tooth at home. An examination helps determine whether treatment is needed and when. Introduce gentle toothbrushing with dog-safe toothpaste, and avoid very hard chewing objects that can fracture teeth. Bad breath, bleeding gums, dropping food or chewing on one side merits attention.
Liver shunts and related conditions
A portosystemic shunt is an abnormal blood vessel that diverts blood around the liver. Signs can include poor growth, digestive upset, unusual behavior or neurological episodes, but these signs alone cannot identify the cause. Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests, imaging and specialist assessment.
Cornell distinguishes large abnormal shunting vessels from microscopic vascular abnormalities in the liver. They are not interchangeable diagnoses and may need different management. Surgery is appropriate for some shunts, while other patients need medical and nutritional treatment. Avoid claims that every affected dog needs the same operation or is guaranteed a cure.
Pancreatitis and digestive changes
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, not simply an infectious disease. Vomiting, poor appetite, abdominal pain and lethargy can occur, although the pattern varies. Rich food or dietary indiscretion can be relevant, but owners should not assume that one ingredient explains every case.
Repeated vomiting, significant pain or inability to keep water down calls for prompt veterinary advice. Treatment depends on severity and may include fluids, pain relief, anti-nausea support and a feeding plan. Do not start antibiotics, human painkillers or a prolonged fast on your own.
Limping and movement
Small breeds can develop problems such as a luxating patella, in which the kneecap slips from its usual position. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease affects the hip in some young small dogs and can cause pain and lameness. A skipping gait or reluctance to use a leg is a reason for examination rather than repeated attempts to exercise the problem away.
Keep floors secure underfoot, prevent risky jumps and maintain a healthy body condition. These measures support comfort but cannot replace diagnosis or correct every structural problem. Ask about safe activity while investigations or recovery are underway.
Neurological signs and everyday prevention
Seizures, marked disorientation, collapse or sudden trouble walking need urgent assessment. Hydrocephalus is one possible neurological condition in toy breeds, but a round head or a small adult size cannot establish that diagnosis. Medication and surgery decisions require an individual veterinary evaluation.
Keep a record of changes in appetite, weight, stool, activity and behavior, and take a short video of an intermittent movement problem if it is safe. Bring vaccination, parasite prevention and previous treatment records to appointments. Regular dental checks can detect problems before eating becomes difficult.
