Yorkshire Terrier Health Care Guide — Symptoms and Prevention of Tracheal Collapse and Patellar Luxation

RespiratoryBreed HealthMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

We’ve compiled the symptoms and home care tips for conditions that Yorkshire Terriers are especially prone to, including tracheal collapse, patellar luxation, dental disease, and hypoglycemia.

What Are the Health Characteristics of Yorkshire Terriers?

A healthy Yorkshire Terrier sitting in the living room, looking at the camera

Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed that requires particular attention to tracheal (windpipe) and joint-related conditions. Among these, tracheal collapse is known to occur frequently in small toy breeds, including Yorkshire Terriers, making it essential to consistently monitor your dog’s breathing sounds and gait, just as you would for patellar luxation. However, the exact cause of tracheal collapse remains unknown, with genetic predisposition considered only one of several hypotheses. Still, early detection of warning signs significantly improves treatment and management outcomes, so let’s carefully review the key points to watch for in this article.

Top 5 Conditions to Watch for in Yorkshire Terriers

Tracheal Collapse: This condition occurs when the cartilage in the trachea (windpipe) weakens and flattens. A hallmark sign is a honking, goose-like cough, often triggered by excitement or hot weather.

Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal position. A classic symptom is the dog suddenly lifting a hind leg while walking.

Dental Disease: Due to their small size, Yorkshire Terriers have crowded teeth, making them prone to tartar buildup and gum disease.

Hypoglycemia: This is especially common in young Yorkshire Terriers. Skipping meals can cause their blood sugar levels to drop rapidly.

Epiphora and Eye Conditions: They may develop epiphora (excessive tearing) or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye).

Why Is Tracheal Collapse Common in Yorkshire Terriers?

Tracheal collapse is a condition in which the cartilage rings of the trachea, the airway connecting the neck to the lungs, weaken and cause the airway to flatten. Although the exact cause of tracheal collapse remains unknown, it is known to occur particularly frequently in small toy breeds, including Yorkshire Terriers. Various hypotheses have been proposed, including genetic predisposition, nutritional factors, and neurological factors, but none has been definitively confirmed as the sole cause. If your dog exhibits a honking, goose-like cough after becoming excited or drinking water, tracheal collapse should be suspected. Obesity increases pressure on the trachea, worsening symptoms, so maintaining an appropriate body weight is the first step in management. Using a harness instead of a collar also helps reduce pressure on the trachea.

A Yorkshire Terrier wearing a harness and taking a walk in the park.

Visit the Vet Immediately If You See These Respiratory Symptoms

If your pet's gums or tongue turn purple or blue, or if their breathing becomes extremely rapid to the point where they can't stand, it indicates a severe lack of oxygen. Don't delay—visit the nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately. In advanced cases of tracheal collapse, a tracheal stent procedure may be necessary, so it's important to quickly identify any unusual breathing patterns.

Patellar Luxation: Symptoms and Treatment by Grade

Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of its normal position, either inward or outward. In small-breed dogs, including Yorkshire Terriers, inward (medial) luxation is far more common. Grade 1 means the kneecap can be pushed out of place manually but returns on its own. Grade 2 involves intermittent slipping, during which the dog may occasionally skip or lift a hind leg. Grades 3 and 4 are severe, with the kneecap remaining dislocated most of the time, often requiring surgery. If your dog suddenly lifts a hind leg while walking or repeatedly stretches it out, please consult your veterinarian. For more details on symptoms, see our Patellar Luxation Symptom Guide.

A veterinarian examining the hind leg joints of a Yorkshire Terrier.

Dental Disease and Hypoglycemia: Easily Overlooked Health Issues

Yorkshire Terriers have small jaws, which causes their teeth to be crowded. This makes it easy for food debris to get trapped and for tartar to build up quickly. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, along with consistent daily tooth brushing, are highly effective in preventing gum disease. Hypoglycemia is a particular concern for young Yorkshire Terriers during their growth phase. If they don’t eat enough or go too long without food, their blood sugar levels can drop rapidly, leading to symptoms such as trembling, unsteadiness, and in severe cases, seizures. The key to preventing hypoglycemia is feeding small, frequent meals.

A young Yorkshire Terrier eating its meal

Key Points for Yorkshire Terrier Health Care

Weight Management: Maintaining an optimal body weight can help reduce symptoms of both tracheal collapse and patellar luxation. Consult your veterinarian to determine your dog’s target weight.

Harness Instead of Collar: Collars place direct pressure on the trachea. Always use a chest harness instead.

Slip Prevention: Slippery floors can worsen patellar luxation. Place carpets or non-slip mats in walking areas.

Regular Check-ups: Scheduling health exams at least once or twice a year allows for early detection of any abnormalities.

Teeth Brushing Routine: If daily brushing isn’t feasible, brushing at least three to four times a week is still effective in preventing tartar buildup.

Weight Management Is Key to Preventing Tracheal Collapse and Patellar Luxation

The standard weight for a Yorkshire Terrier is approximately 1.8 to 3.2 kg. If your dog becomes obese and exceeds this range, symptoms of tracheal collapse can worsen rapidly, and the burden on the patella increases significantly. Please limit treats to no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily caloric intake and monitor weight changes every month.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does patellar luxation surgery typically cost for a Yorkshire Terrier?

Costs vary by clinic, but for one leg, they typically range from $700 to $2,000. The exact amount depends on the stage of the dislocation and whether additional procedures are needed, so it’s best to consult at least two or three clinics.

Is tracheal collapse curable?

Tracheal collapse is caused by a structural weakness in the tracheal cartilage, so a complete cure is difficult. However, symptoms can be effectively managed through weight control, using a harness instead of a collar, and medication. In severe cases, tracheal stenting may be considered.

When should you start brushing your Yorkshire Terrier’s teeth?

It's a good idea to start getting your puppy used to brushing its teeth from around 3 to 4 months of age, when the baby teeth begin to come in. Begin by wrapping gauze around your finger and gently wiping the gums.

How long should a Yorkshire Terrier’s walks be?

A light walk of about 20 to 30 minutes a day is appropriate. For dogs with tracheal collapse, avoid hot or humid days and walk slowly to prevent excitement.

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References

[1] Schaer M. Clinical Medicine of the Dog and Cat, 4th Ed. CRC Press, 2022. Chapter: Patellar Luxation — Pathophysiology and Diagnosis

[2] Piermattei DL, Flo GL, DeCamp CE. Textbook of Veterinary Orthopaedic Surgery. Wiley-Blackwell. Chapter: Trochlear Groove Deepening and Tibial Tuberosity Transposition

[3] Hill P, Warman S, Shawcross G. 100 Top Consultations in Small Animal General Practice. Wiley-Blackwell, 2011. Chapter: Patellar Luxation

[4] Nelson RW, Couto CG. Small Animal Internal Medicine, 6th Ed. Elsevier, 2019. Chapter: Tracheal Collapse