Yorkshire Terriers are known for very black nails and for (usually) being fairly difficult for anyone trying to trim those nails. If it was something you could just leave alone, I’d recommend you do that. However, there are many reasons why you should be cutting (or have someone else who is trained do it) your Yorkie’s nails. However, how often do they need to be done? At least every 2-3 weeks to keep them short but there are many things to consider. Full disclosure: I’m a retired veterinarian who worked with animals for 30 years. However, I don’t cut my own Yorkie’s nails. I can’t do it. I wi ..read more

It’s a big day for any Yorkie owner (and the Yorkie, to be honest): your baby is undergoing anesthesia, having some sort of surgical procedure, and you are trying to prepare for what you can do once the pup is back home. As a veterinarian with over 20 years experience, the following information is based on my extensive experience and feedback from clients over the years. It’s also based on my own experience with my 5lb Yorkie, Binky. I had to do some dental work on her a few weeks after I brought her home from the rescue. The picture below is what she looked like about an hour after we finishe ..read more

Choosing the right Yorkie name can feel like the most important decision in your early relationship with your new dog. You are planning on spending the next 15+ years with this little one, so pick a name that you’re going to love and that fits your Yorkie. I’ve met thousands of dogs in my life and I can honestly say that a unique or well-fitting name makes a dog stand out from the rest. Don’t be afraid to change a name if it’s not working for you. These names work great for adopted Yorkies as well as those being selected as puppies. What’s My Name? Can You Change A Yorkie’s Name? Absolutely! N ..read more

While vaccines are crucial for preventing serious diseases in dogs, like in humans, they can sometimes have side effects or risks. It’s important to understand that for most dogs, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. As a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of vaccine reactions. Here’s an overview of potential adverse reactions or dangers associated with dog vaccines. Are Yorkies More Prone To Vaccine Reactions Than Any Other Dog Breed? I do not believe that Yorkes are more prone in any way to vaccine reactions than any other dog breed. While ..read more

As a veterinarian who has seen hundreds of Yorkies throughout her career, the most common purpose for having a Yorkie come into the veterinary clinic is for their annual wellness exam and vaccines. Over the years, there has been a great deal of controversy about what dog vaccines are truly needed. Moreover, there has been a much harsher spotlight on the potential side effects and dangers that vaccines can pose. In this article I will provide a balanced and detailed look at the different vaccines that are out there, discuss core vs non-core vaccines, and lay out for the Yorkie owner the kinds o ..read more

If you are considering bringing a Yorkshire Terrier, also known as a Yorkie, into your family, one of your first considerations should be the costs involved. Pet ownership is a significant responsibility and knowing the costs associated with purchasing and raising a Yorkie is essential. When I was a veterinarian working with pet owners, money was usually a significant concern for most of them. This comprehensive guide aims to provide an in-depth understanding of not just the initial cost of a Yorkie puppy but also the ongoing expenses to ensure its wellbeing and health. The Initial Cost of a Y ..read more

Your beloved pet Yorkie’s health and well-being is undoubtedly a priority for you, as their owner. As a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience (and also with a Yorkie at home), I make it my personal mission to inform dog owners what they can and can’t give their pets when they are sick. Baby aspirin is one of the most common over the counter medications I am asked about in the clinic. Let’s dig into everything you need to know about baby aspirin and Yorkies. First – What Is Baby Aspirin? “Baby aspirin” is a term commonly used to refer to low-dose aspirin. It generally contains 81 millig ..read more

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, are a delightful mix of feistiness and energy, making them one of the most cherished breeds globally. Despite their mini size, these little dynamos often display an oversized personality that can lead to excessive barking. As a owner of a Yorkie, I can offer my advice on what has worked (and what has not or shouldn’t be tried) and hope to help you as well. What Does It Mean When My Yorkie Is Barking? Yorkshire Terriers are adorable, small-sized dogs that are famous for their feisty personalities and luxurious coats. However, excessive barkin ..read more

If you are considering bringing a Yorkshire Terrier, also known as a Yorkie, into your family, one of your first considerations should be the costs involved. Pet ownership is a significant responsibility and knowing the costs associated with purchasing and raising a Yorkie is essential. When I was a veterinarian working with pet owners, money was usually a significant concern for most of them. This comprehensive guide aims to provide an in-depth understanding of not just the initial cost of a Yorkie puppy but also the ongoing expenses to ensure its wellbeing and health. The Initial Cost of a Y ..read more

Yorkshire Terriers have a well-deserved reputation as fun-loving and boisterous. However, although they are wonderful dogs, they aren’t always good with children. It doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t bring a Yorkie into your home with children. As a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience working with both families and dogs (as well as being a Yorkie owner myself), I can offer a balanced take on this issue. What Traits Of Yorkshire Terriers Make Them Good Family Dogs? Yorkshire Terriers are fantastic family dogs. They are energetic, youthful, and love people (as a general rule). Some ..read more