About a Teacup Yorkie
A Teacup Yorkshire Terrier weighs 3 to 5 pounds at adulthood. Breeders strive to keep the size very small, which while adorable can also be problematic. Tracheal collapse is a often a genetic issue but often just occurs due to weak cartilage. Teacup Yorkies are often injured due to falls or improper handling, sometimes being sat on due to not being noticed. This breed does not do well being left alone and requires interaction.
Teacup Yorkies, like any other animal, have their pros and cons. They are wonderful pets, if you have the time to invest in their care and maintenance. Being adorable is an
obvious plus, but there are health considerations of this tiny dog that you should consider.
Injuries
This breed is very curious, and like a child, must be watched to avoid getting into a hurtful situation. Teacup Yorkies do not have much chance when attacked by another larger dog. Their small stature leads to them not being readily noticed and thus accidently stepped or sat on. Injuries sustained can damage bones and vital organs, having long-term effects.
Poison
Should poison be accidentally ingested, a Teacup Yorkie is likely to be unable to recover. The effects of anesthesia, needed for surgery and sometimes dental work, can be intolerable to this breed.
Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal collapse occurs due to the rings of cartilage becoming weakened and flaccid. This obstructs their air intake. One of the first signs is hearing a cough that sounds like a honk after the dog has exercised. Chronic lung disease can develop due to the effort exerted to breathe with the collapsed tissue. This ailment can be treated with a specialized cough suppressant, but often requires surgery.
Liver Shunts
When blood takes an irregular route to bypass the liver, it is referred to as a liver shunt. Blood not passing through the liver does not get its toxins removed, which causes other health issues. Shunts that develop as an animal ages are often caused by injury or liver disease and are frequent in dogs that are in the small range for their breed. Surgery, medication and a specialized diet are used individually or together to treat this.