Yorkshire Terrier Health and Costs
Breed Group
Toy Dogs
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Breed Size
Toy
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1885
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1954
Rarity
Most Common1 / 10
Purchase cost
Expensive7 / 10
Life expectancy
Long Lifespan8 / 10
Health
Generally healthy7 / 10
Health problem risk
Moderate health concerns4 / 10
Maintenance cost
Moderate upkeep cost4 / 10
A Veterinarian's Guide
Yorkshire Terrier Health Problems and Costs
The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny, spirited companion that often lives well into its teens. Its small size and fine coat bring a short, predictable list of concerns: dental disease, slipping kneecaps, a weak windpipe, a liver blood vessel defect called a shunt, and low blood sugar in very small puppies. Knowing them early makes vet visits and budgeting much easier.
In this guide
Why Is Dental Disease Such a Big Deal for Yorkies?
Dental disease is the condition most often seen in small breeds. A tiny jaw has to hold a full set of teeth, so they crowd together and collect plaque and tartar quickly. Left alone, tartar leads to gum infection, loose teeth, and bone loss around the roots.
Daily tooth brushing makes the biggest difference. Without it, many Yorkies need professional cleanings starting in early adulthood, and some need extractions. Bad breath, visible tartar, drooling, or reluctance to chew are all reasons to book a dental exam.
What Is Patellar Luxation?
Patellar luxation means the kneecap slips out of its groove. It is considered a common inherited problem in Yorkies, and it is graded from 1 to 4 by how often it slips and whether it returns to place on its own. Many dogs never progress beyond grade 1 or 2.
Mild cases show up as an occasional skip or hop in which the dog lifts a hind leg for a few steps, then walks normally. Higher grades cause a persistent limp and eventual arthritis, and often need surgery. Keeping your dog at a lean weight helps protect the knees.
What Is Tracheal Collapse?
The windpipe is held open by rings of cartilage. In toy breeds, tracheal collapse occurs when the walls weaken and flatten, and it is described as especially common in very tiny Yorkies. It tends to worsen with age and with excitement, heat, or pressure on the neck.
The classic sign is a dry, honking cough. Switching from a collar to a harness is one of the simplest changes for mild cases. A chronic honking cough deserves a veterinary exam, because earlier management is gentler than later treatment.
What Is a Liver Shunt?
A portosystemic shunt is an abnormal blood vessel that lets blood bypass the liver, so toxins the liver would normally filter stay in circulation. Yorkshire Terriers are among the breeds with the highest reported incidence, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.
Affected puppies may grow poorly, seem disoriented, or stare blankly after eating. Diagnosis involves bloodwork and imaging, and many shunts can be corrected with surgery once found.
A puppy that seems disoriented, presses its head against furniture, or has a seizure, especially after eating, needs prompt veterinary evaluation. Very tiny puppies that become weak, wobbly, or unresponsive may also have low blood sugar and need urgent care.
What Do These Conditions Cost?
Figures below are typical United States ranges and vary by region and clinic. Because patellar surgery and shunt correction are the largest potential expenses, consider whether pet insurance is worth it early, before any symptoms appear.
| Condition or Need | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dental cleaning | $300 to $800 | Per cleaning, higher with extractions |
| Patellar luxation surgery | $1,500 to $3,500 | Only if the grade requires it |
| Tracheal collapse diagnostics | $300 to $500 | More if surgery is considered |
| Liver shunt surgery | $3,000 to $6,000 | Surgical correction by a specialist |
Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Buying a Puppy
Reputable breeders raise puppies in a clean, warm setting and share health information openly. The AKC health testing guidance for toy breeds is a good reference for what to request.
- 01
Knee evaluations
Patella exam results for both parents.
- 02
Shunt history
Whether any puppies in the line were diagnosed with a liver shunt.
- 03
Puppy size and feeding
Avoid extremely tiny puppies, and ask how often they are fed.
- 04
Veterinary records
Vaccinations, deworming, and a first veterinary exam.
How Do I Support My Yorkie Day to Day?
Brush the teeth daily, use a harness for walks, and feed small, regular meals, especially for young puppies. Our guide to Yorkshire Terrier grooming explains how to keep the fine coat from matting, which also protects the skin. Knowing the breed's personality helps you notice when a bold little dog becomes quiet, and steady training keeps handling, brushing, and vet visits stress free. Because of their size, Yorkies are easily injured by falls and rough play, so supervise them around stairs and larger dogs.
What Should I Expect Over a Lifetime?
Many Yorkshire Terriers live about 11 to 15 years. UK studies summarized on Wikipedia report a median life expectancy of roughly 12.5 to 13.3 years, which is above average. Plan for yearly exams, regular dental care, and a closer look at the knees and breathing as your dog ages. Small dogs also tolerate anesthesia less well, so discuss a pre-anesthetic plan with your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts From a Veterinarian
Yorkshire Terriers are long-lived and generally healthy when teeth, knees, and airway get attention early. Daily brushing, a harness, and routine checkups do the most good. Ask your own veterinarian to tailor a plan to your individual dog.
Health & Costs FAQ
How much do Yorkshire Terrier cost?
Purchasing a Yorkshire Terrier typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000 from reputable breeders. First-year ownership costs are estimated between $2,500 and $5,500.
Purchase cost: 7 / 10
How long do Yorkshire Terrier live?
Yorkshire Terriers are a long-lived breed, typically living about 11 to 15 years. UK studies report a median life expectancy of roughly 12.5 to 13.3 years, which is above average.
Life expectancy: 8 / 10
Are Yorkshire Terrier healthy dogs?
Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy and long-lived, but they face several breed-specific health challenges. They are prone to dental disease, luxating patellas, tracheal collapse, and liver shunts. Owners should prioritize consistent veterinary care, daily dental hygiene, and weight management to keep these small, delicate dogs healthy.
Health: 7 / 10
What health problems do Yorkshire Terrier have?
Yorkshire Terriers are prone to dental disease, luxating patellas, tracheal collapse, and portosystemic (liver) shunts. Very tiny puppies can also develop low blood sugar, so regular meals and veterinary checkups matter.
Health problem risk: 4 / 10
Are Yorkshire Terrier expensive to maintain?
Yorkshire Terriers have a moderate upkeep cost. They eat little because of their small size, but they need regular professional grooming, daily dental care, and periodic dental cleanings. Owners should also budget for breed-specific issues like tracheal collapse or luxating patella.
Maintenance cost: 4 / 10
How much does it cost to own a Yorkshire Terrier per month?
Expect to spend between $120 and $250 per month to own a Yorkshire Terrier. This budget covers food, routine veterinary visits, preventive medications, and regular grooming.
Monthly ownership cost: 3 / 10
How much does pet insurance cost for a Yorkshire Terrier?
Pet insurance for a Yorkshire Terrier typically costs between $25 and $45 per month. Dental coverage is critical due to the breed's high risk of periodontal disease.
Pet insurance cost: 2 / 10
Will homeowners insurance cover a Yorkshire Terrier?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover Yorkshire Terriers as they are not typically on restricted breed lists. However, since they are small and valuable, they can be targets for theft. Always disclose your pet to your insurer to ensure your liability coverage remains valid and active.
Homeowners insurance difficulty: 9 / 10
Are Yorkshire Terrier on insurance restricted breed lists?
No, Yorkshire Terriers are not typically included on insurance restricted-breed lists. These lists generally focus on larger breeds perceived to have higher liability risks. As a small and popular companion dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is usually considered a low-risk breed by most homeowners insurance providers.
Insurance restriction risk: 2 / 10
Can you get renters insurance with a Yorkshire Terrier?
Yes, you can typically get renters insurance with a Yorkshire Terrier. As a small breed, they are rarely found on insurance restricted lists. Most policies provide liability coverage for accidents, but always disclose your pet to your insurer and check your lease for any specific landlord pet requirements.
Renters insurance difficulty: 8 / 10
