What Do Yorkies Usually Die From? 10 Reliable Answers to Help!
Tiny, but mighty! Even brave, ones would say! Still, we need to answer a difficult question in our today`s article: what do Yorkies usually die from?
Loyal and protective – your Yorkshire Terrier is always ready for an adventure. How can you not love this small adorable creature, right?
Even though they are so little, these cute dogs have a big personality. We know you care about your Yorkie and, obviously, all that you want is to take good care of your little pal.
This is pretty much why in our topic of today we`ll go through some of the most common health problems of this appealing dog breed.
What Age Do Most Yorkies Die?
According to two recent studies performed in Japan and the United Kingdom, the average Yorkie life expectancy is 12.5 – 14.5 years.
Although the lifespan of this breed is somehow longer than many other dog breeds, still, they are predisposed to particular congenital conditions and illnesses.
What Is Poisonous to Yorkshire Terriers?
Thiosulphate represents an inorganic compound found in garlic, chives and onions. Giving this type of foods to your Yorkie in large amounts can become toxic to your little fella`, so best avoid it!
It`s also believed that grapes might also affect your canine`s kidneys from a substance which is still not known. Same with raisins!
Macadamia nuts and broccoli should also be avoided to be given to Yorkshire Terriers as can be poisonous for them.
What Do Yorkies Usually Die From?
The leading death cause among Yorkies is heart failure. Most heart illnesses in canines are the result of weakening deformity of heart valves in such a way that they are no longer able to close properly; at some point, blood starts leaking around these particular valves, putting strain upon the heart.
Canines with such heart valve illness, also known as mitral valve disease, have a specific heart murmur that can be heard at a veterinary investigation.
If you suspect your Yorkie might suffer of a heart disease, it`s recommended to visit your local vet for additional tests in order to determine how serious the disease really is.
Same tests have then to be performed at least once per year for the medical condition to be monitored.
What Other Health Issues Do Yorkies Have?
Some of the most common health problems seen in Yorkies may include dry eye syndrome (KCS), portosystemic shunt, bronchitis, cataracts and lymphangiectasia.
In addition, the Yorkshire Terrier has a sensitive digestive system. Sometimes when it eats some types of foods that aren`t in its regular diet, this might lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
The fairly small size of Yorkie also means that it generally has a low anaesthesia tolerance. In addition, a toy canine like the Yorkshire Terrier is a lot more likely to get injured from clumsiness, falls or other canines.
Also, allergic reactions might lead to itchy, red or dry skin.
What Is the Most Deadly Food for Yorkies?
There are some types of food that you should never ever feed your Yorkie.
For instance, chocolate contains 6 times more theobromine than milk, a xanthine derivative that is known to have dangerous consequences for a Yorkshire Terrier. – More info!
As outlined above, raisins and grapes can also be fatal for your little friend`s kidneys. The very first sign of health issues in this case is vomiting.
Pretty much any kind of nuts should be avoided because of their increased content of phosphorus. You should certainly never feed macadamia nuts to your pooch as this might lead to short-term rear leg paralysis.
Alcohol poisoning can also very well happen in your dog if it happens for it to consume enough amounts that can ferment in the little one`s stomach.
Increased amounts of salt might also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Your Yorkie`s diet should never include salt.
Raw eggs are also to be avoided as much as possible from your fluffy friend`s diet. They might lead to the inability of your Yorkshire Terrier`s body to absorb biotin, thus resulting in skin or coat issues.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that can frequently be found in particular foods, but also toothpaste, candies or gum. This specific substance may have upsetting consequences for your Yorkie.
How Do I Know If My Yorkie Is Dying?
When a canine is close to dying, it might experience heavy breathing, their breathing might become rather shallow!
One might notice that their Yorkshire Terrier has a tendency to struggle to catch its own breath as well, their breathing might being somehow uneven. The time frame between each and every inhale and exhale might seem to take longer. – Click here!
The more signs your canine experience at a particular moment, the more likely is that your canine`s
is close to an end. If you notice your Yorkie breathing rather weird, your furry friend might be close to dying.
What to Watch For?
Any abnormal sign might be a temporary, minor issue or may consist a symptom of severe illness. The essential thing is for you to be able to tell the difference between small problem and urgent help that needs veterinary assistance.
Lots of illnesses can cause Yorkies to have a characteristic mix of signs, which if they are taken together can be a crystal clear signal to your Yorkie needs professional help.
What Signs to Look for Veterinary Help?
Get in touch with your nearest veterinary clinic if you notice any of the below symptoms:
- Drinks or urinates more than usual
- High weight loss, thirst or hunger
- Water consumption or appetite change
- Aggression or other changes of behavior
- Hair loss or itchy skin
- Broken teeth, build-up of tartar, red gums
- Sleeping more than usual, weakness, lethargy
How to Keep your Yorkie Active?
Physical exercise keeps your Yorkshire Terrier just as healthy as us humans! Your dog doesn`t need more than 15 – 20 minutes chasing its favorite stuffed toy in your living room for the little fella` to develop healthy.
In addition, 1 – 2 walks per day in the park can also help improve its immune system and keep healthy problems away.
How Important Is Making the Right Call?
Twenty five percent of canines usually die in a peaceful way during their sleep. On the other hand, 75% of dogs will rely on their owners` right decision to be put to bed forever.
It`s never easy to see your beloved Yorkie go away, so most of the time can be devastating to put your friend to “sleep.” However, it`s vital to keep your dog`s feelings first when making such a difficult decision.
If your Yorkshire Terrier is struggling to breathe or always in constant pain and there`s nothing more to be done, it`s definitely better to euthanize your canine and just let go. This is the most loving and unselfish “last gift” that you can give to your little pal.
Final Word
So we hope we managed to answer such an important question like “what do Yorkies usually die from?”
Needless to say, it`s always hard to endure such moments when it`s about difficult moments for a lifetime friend.
But remember, your dear canine companion will be in a better place, happier than ever!
