Yorkshire and toy terriers: how long do miniature dogs live?

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular miniature dogs in the world. Today, owning a Yorkie speaks of the modernity and status of its owner, because such a breed is by no means cheap. Despite this, the number of people who want to buy this cute dog is growing every day. In this regard, the following questions have become quite common:

• How long do Yorkshire Terriers live?
• how to prolong the life of miniature breed dogs;
• diseases of Yorkshire terriers and others.

These and other issues related to the upbringing of Yorkies are discussed in this article.

Lifespan of Yorkshire Terriers

Such a breed as the Yorkshire Terrier was bred by experts in the course of numerous experiments. This breed of dog is distinguished by its refinement, elegance and kindness. That is why most of its owners are female representatives. Since the breed is miniature, the question of the dog’s life expectancy is one of the main ones. But first, consider general characteristics of the breed Yorkshire Terrier.

Distinguishing features

This dog is small enough maximum weight – 3 kilograms. Beautiful posture, kind look and golden color are the characteristics that distinguish it from other miniature breed dogs. Such qualities make the Yorkie look like an eternal puppy.

In addition, this dog has a playful nature and tireless temperament. Due to the strong lower back, she is able to always maintain a beautiful posture. The shoulders, as a rule, are tightly pressed to the body.

Among the shortcomings of the breed, one can single out causeless fear and anxiety, dependence on the owner, frequent barking and lack of courage – such signs are characteristic of most dogs of miniature breeds.

As for the coat, in Yorkies it is quite thick and long, has dark roots and light tips. Because of the long and obedient coat, it is customary for Yorkies to do all kinds of hairstyles. But the owners of these dogs need to be prepared for the fact that it will take a considerable amount of time to devote to wool. Already at six months, the puppy’s coat grows so long that it will require regular washing, cutting and combing. However, if your dog takes part in exhibitions, it is recommended to cancel the haircut.

Lifespan of Yorkshire Terriers

Average Yorkie live for fifteen yearssubject to regular veterinary check-ups and proper care. Purebred breeds must develop according to certain standards, deviation from which is unacceptable. They are designed for an adult dog and require compliance with a specific weight, specific size and physique.

In addition to purebred Yorkies, mini-York breeding is gaining popularity today. The dog (to put it bluntly, for an amateur) has a spherical head and bulging eyes. The distinctive characteristics of this type of Yorkie are an open fontanel, poor posture and a weakened body constitution. This subspecies is most often prone to various hereditary diseases. A very small specimen of the Yorkie, as a rule, live no more than 6 years – best case scenario. The life span of these dogs is 3-4 years.

Despite the above data, among the classic purebred Yorkshire terriers there are real centenarians who can live up to 18 – 20 years.

How long does a toy terrier live?

Another variety of miniature terrier dogs is the pretty Russian toy terrier. Unlike Yorkies, Toy Terriers are smooth-haired dogs (although there are also long-haired varieties). Have thin bones and lean muscles. Toy Terriers are quite tall, have a small head and erect ears. How long do these dogs live?

The average life expectancy of toy terriers is 10-15 years. Your toy terrier can live longer, up to 20 years, provided that he does not have hereditary diseases and provides him with proper and regular care. Improper care, poor heredity, and even lack of communication can shorten the life of a pet. And if it is impossible to change the dog’s inheritance, it is in your power to correct the dog’s lifestyle.

How to extend the life of a pet

Before you buy a Yorkshire or Toy Terrier puppy, you need to know how to properly care for your new pet. Indeed, in order to prolong its existence, it is necessary for it to take care of. To extend the life of the dog will allow the observance of several fundamental principles:

• Proper nutrition. The lifespan of a Yorkie, like any creature on the planet, depends on good health. And health directly depends on the quality of its nutrition. You can not feed the dog products that are harmful to her: sugar, legumes, fatty, smoked, canned foods and flour products. Keep in mind that bones are harmful to a dog, they can cause extensive damage to its esophagus, even death. An exception can only be small bones during teething. Add substances called chondroprotectors to your dog’s diet – they will protect the joints and bones of a miniature dog from the damage that occurs with age.
• Regular physical activity. Provide your dog with exercise so that he is active and enduring. Regularly train your pet, conduct special exercises, let him run and warm up well. Do not keep the Yorkie all the time within the walls of the house, constantly go out for a walk. Thanks to this, your pet will keep a good shape for many years.
• Examination by a specialist. From puppyhood to 6 years of age, a Yorkie must be taken for an annual check-up at a veterinary clinic. From the age of 6, examinations should be carried out more often – about 2 – 3 times a year, provided that the dog feels well.
• Due attention. Scientists have proven that a pet, in particular a dog, is able to live for many years if the family loves it, communicates with it and appreciates it. Never deprive your little family member of your attention and be sure that he will thank you with his devotion and love.