Yorkshire terrier: trachea and teeth, the fragilities to anticipate
Published by Planète Pets · managing editor: Clément Lacaille · how our guides are written
Despite its tiny frame and lively character, the Yorkshire terrier carries two well-documented fragilities: the trachea and the teeth. Knowing them helps you choose the right everyday gear and plan the care budget. All our pointers are in the dog care and grooming section, with the full profile on the Yorkshire terrier page.
Contents · 4 sections
Tracheal collapse, the most affected breed
The Yorkshire terrier is the most represented breed among dogs undergoing tracheal collapse surgery, a progressive weakening of the cartilage rings that causes a characteristic dry, honking cough. A study by Buback, Boothe and Hobson, published in 1996 in the JAVMA on 90 operated dogs, showed that dogs under 6 years old had more severe forms but recovered better after surgery than older dogs (see the study). Favouring a harness over a collar limits everyday pressure on the trachea.
A fragile mouth from an early age
Like most very small breeds, the Yorkshire terrier builds up tartar quickly due to its compact jaw and often crowded teeth. Regular brushing from puppyhood and more frequent scaling than average help limit the early tooth extractions common in the breed.
What care budget to plan
Between respiratory monitoring and regular dental scaling, the Yorkshire terrier calls for steady attention rather than heavy one-off bills. Our guide to pet insurance for dogs helps you assess whether cover pays off, and our page on insuring a Yorkshire terrier spells out the useful cover for this breed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise tracheal collapse?
A dry, repeated cough that sounds like a goose honk, especially after excitement or heat, should prompt a vet visit.
Is a harness really better than a collar?
Yes, for this at-risk breed: a collar puts direct pressure on an already fragile trachea, while a harness spreads the load across the chest.
Should teeth be watched from puppyhood?
Yes: early brushing and regular check-ups clearly lower the risk of tartar and painful extractions in adulthood.
An accessory from our shop for this use: “Toothbrush” TPR rubber chew toy for dogs (€33.90) · the whole shop
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.