The Average Lifespan of a Yorkie

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately called “Yorkies”, are one of the most popular toy dog breeds. These small but feisty dogs make excellent companions for people looking for a pint-sized pet. However, one question many prospective Yorkie owners often ask is: “what’s the average lifespan of a Yorkie?”

The typical lifespan of a healthy Yorkie is between 12-16 years. With plenty of love and proper care, some Yorkies can even live to be up to 20 years old! Clearly, bringing home one of these delightful pups is a commitment of over a decade of devoted companionship.

To help your Yorkie live their longest, healthiest life possible, it’s important to understand what impacts their lifespan and know how to spot signs of aging or illness early on.

What Impacts a Yorkie’s Lifespan?

Several different factors influence a Yorkie’s lifespan and health, including:

• Genetics: Some dogs are predisposed genetically to live longer or develop certain health conditions. Be sure to choose a Yorkie from a responsible breeder who screens for genetic issues.
• Spaying/Neutering: “Fixed” Yorkies tend to live 1-2 years longer on average than intact dogs. Early spay/neuter around 6 months old is best.
• Weight: Overweight Yorkies are more likely to develop life-shortening illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Stick to the recommended calorie intake for their size.
• Preventative Care: Annual vet visits for exams & vaccines, monthly preventatives for parasites, and dental cleanings help avoid disease.
• Diet & Exercise: High-quality food and regular exercise keeps your Yorkie’s organs functioning well and maintains a healthy body condition.
• Environmental Factors: Things like air quality, toxins from household cleaners, temperature extremes or stress levels can affect health over time. Provide the best environment possible.
• Accidents or Injuries: Trauma from car accidents, falls, or other injuries may unavoidably result in a shorter lifespan. Supervise your petite Yorkie and puppy-proof your home for safety!

Clearly longevity and health are impacted by both nature and nurture when it comes to Yorkies! While some factors are beyond your control, focusing your efforts on those you can influence will help ensure your Yorkie lives life to the fullest.

Signs of Aging in Senior Yorkies

Yorkies generally transition into their “senior” years around the age of 8. Some signs your Yorkshire Terrier is considered a senior include:

• Difficulty jumping up onto furniture
• Cloudy eyes or diminished vision/hearing
• Graying fur, especially on the face and paws
• Increased sleeping/less energetic
• Loss of previous housetraining
• Decreased appetite or dental issues

Seeing one or two of these symptoms is common in many aging Yorkies. However, if these issues become severe or you notice multiple symptoms appearing rapidly, take your dog to the vet for a check-up. Sudden changes can indicate the presence of an underlying medical condition requiring treatment.

Health Concerns for Senior Yorkies

As with all dog breeds, Yorkies also face increased susceptibility to certain age-related health problems. Few common health issues in Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) according to the Animal Health Clinic:

• Periodontal Disease: Gum/tooth infections are extremely common in small breed dogs and can be very painful. Have your Yorkie’s teeth examined regularly and get professional cleanings done annually.
• Cataracts: Cloudy lenses are unfortunately prevalent in the breed. Symptoms are blurry vision leading to clumsiness or sensing changes. Cataract surgery may help restore sight if needed.
• Hypothyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. Signs include hair loss, weight gain, feeling cold and fatigued. Daily medication can effectively manage this condition.
• Diabetes: Excess blood sugar can develop from chronic inflammation or pancreatitis. Warning signs of diabetes are increased thirst/urination and weight loss. If caught early, adjustments to diet and insulin injections allow dogs to still live happily.
• Heart Disease: Problems like defective valves or irregular heart rhythms may arise. Indications to look for are exercise intolerance, coughing or fainting. Various medications help stabilize cardiac issues.
• Kidney Disease: Kidneys having trouble filtering blood can have symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, depression or seizures. Special diets and medications aid kidney function but dialysis or transplant rarely feasible for dogs.

The key is having your vet evaluate any persistent symptoms your Yorkie develops so conditions can be diagnosed and managed as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment are vital for preserving longevity and wellness!

Extending Your Yorkie’s Lifespan

If you want your Yorkshire Terrier to live a long life, focus your efforts on health, nutrition, safety and preventative care. There are several things you can do to give them the best shot at reaching 12-20 years.

Feed your Yorkie a high-quality diet that meets AAFCO standards. Choose an age-appropriate food where the first ingredient is real meat, along with whole grains and vegetables. Weigh them routinely and avoid overfeeding treats to maintain an ideal weight. Extra weight stresses joints and organs.

Exercise your Yorkie for 20-30 minutes daily, broken into 2-3 short walks. Regular activity keeps them trim and energized into their senior years. Groom them frequently by brushing their hair twice a week and bathing every 2-3 weeks. This prevents skin and coat problems. Trim their nails monthly.

Get annual vet exams, diagnostic tests, vaccines, parasite prevention and dental cleanings. Catching issues early makes treatment easier. Puppy proof your home by keeping dangers like medications and plants out of reach. Use baby gates, crate training and always leash walk.

Enrich your Yorkie’s environment with puzzle toys, training classes for mental stimulation, and play time with small dogs. Ensure they get plenty of love and quality attention. Fulfilling lifestyle boosts immunity and emotional health.

If you focus on exceptional daily care for your Yorkie, they’ll likely enjoy a vibrant life of 16 years or more, bringing your family endless joy and companionship.