Yorkie Weight Loss Navigating Weight Related Skin Issues

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

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9 Yorkie Stomach problems With Useful Tips

Lets discuss some common Yorkie stomach problems

One common problem in Yorkies is stomach issues.

Whether its indigestion, vomiting, or diarrhea, dealing with an upset Yorkie stomach can be stressful for both you and your furry friend.

In this post, well discuss some common causes of Yorkie stomach problems and share tips for keeping your pup feeling its best.

Symptoms of Yorkie Stomach Problems

Here are some common symptoms of Yorkie stomach problems:

Diarrhea: This is a common symptom of stomach problems in Yorkies. The stool may be watery, bloody, or mucoid.
Vomiting: Yorkies with an upset stomach may vomit frequently. Sometimes, the vomit may contain yellow bile, mucus, or blood.
Loss of appetite: Yorkies may lose interest in food due to stomach problems. They may refuse to eat or eat very little.
Abdominal pain: Yorkies may experience stomach pain, cramps, or spasms, which can cause them to whine or cry.
Lethargy: Yorkies with stomach problems may be less active than usual. They may seem depressed or listless.
Dehydration: If your Yorkie is dehydrated, the gums may appear dry or sticky. They may also have sunken eyes, lethargy, and a dry nose.
Weight loss: Yorkies may lose weight due to stomach problems. This could be a gradual or rapid weight loss.
Excessive gas: Bloating or gas can be common in Yorkies with an upset stomach. They may pass gas frequently, which can be unpleasant.
Changes in behavior: Yorkies may exhibit unusual behavior changes such as pacing or restlessness, which can indicate theyre no longer feeling comfortable.

Yorkie Stomach problems

Here are some common Yorkie stomach problems, symptoms, causes, and treatments:

1. Gastric torsion (bloat)

Bloat, commonly known as gastric torsion, is a potentially fatal illness that can affect Yorkies.

It is caused by the stomach twisting, which causes a stoppage of blood flow and gas buildup.

Bloating, pacing, restlessness, drooling, and vomiting are all signs of stomach torsion in Yorkies.

An emergency operation to untwist the stomach and stop further damage is part of the treatment for gastric torsion.

2. Gastroenteritis

Yorkies frequently suffer from gastroenteritis, sometimes known as stomach flu.

It results in vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration because a virus or bacteria attacks the lining of the stomach and intestines.

The signs of gastroenteritis in Yorkies include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Fluids to prevent dehydration, drugs to stop vomiting and diarrhea, and antibiotics to treat any bacterial infection are all part of the treatment for gastroenteritis.

3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract from inflammatory bowel disease results in vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Numerous things, such as an aberrant immune response to the intestinal lining, genetics, and food, can contribute to its development.

A particular diet, immune system-suppressing drugs, and occasionally surgery are all possible forms of treatment.

4. Intestinal Parasites Attacks

Yorkies are prone to contracting intestinal parasites such as giardia, hookworms, and roundworms.

Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and a pot-bellied appearance are some of the signs of intestinal parasites in Yorkies.

A stool sample is typically examined under a microscope to determine the diagnosis.

Medications to kill the parasite are typically used in treatment, along with preventative measures including routine deworming and excellent hygiene habits.

5. Pancreatitis

Yorkies frequently get pancreatitis, which develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed.

Table scraps, an excessive amount of snacks, a high-fat diet, and other variables can all contribute to inflammation.

In Yorkies, pancreatitis can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and appetite loss.

Pancreatitis can cause severe dehydration, shock, and even death.

Hospitalization and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, painkillers, and nausea medications, are typically part of the treatment process.

Your veterinarian could suggest a particular diet when your Yorkie heals in order to stop a recurrence.

6. Food Allergies Upset

Yorkies are susceptible to food allergies upset; the most common allergens are beef, chicken, wheat, and soy.

In Yorkies, food allergies can cause skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

A food elimination trial, in which your Yorkie is fed a specific diet and gradually reintroduced to various foods to detect the allergen, is typically used to diagnose an allergy.

Avoiding the allergy and following a particular diet are typically the mainstays of treatment.

7. Colitis

Inflammation of the large intestine is known as colitis and can affect Yorkies.

Numerous things, such as stress, parasites, and dietary allergies, might contribute to it.

In Yorkies, colitis can cause diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, and bloody stools.

Colitis is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, dietary modifications, and occasionally antibiotics.

8. Intestinal obstruction

When the intestines get blocked, intestinal obstruction occurs, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Ingesting foreign objects like toys or bones can result in intestinal obstruction in Yorkies, as can tumors.

Surgery to remove the obstruction is one form of treatment for intestinal obstruction.

9. Upset stomach

A number of things, such as eating something that doesnt agree with them, overeating, or stress, might cause Yorkies to have an upset stomach.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss are other symptoms.

A bland diet of boiling chicken and rice may be used to gently reintroduce food after a brief time of fasting from it.

Additionally, probiotics, antacids, and anti-nausea medications may be recommended to treat symptoms.

Causes of Yorkie Stomach Problems

Here are some possible causes of Yorkie stomach issues:

Eating too quickly: Yorkies are notorious for eating too fast, which can cause them to swallow air and lead to stomach issues such as bloating and gas.
Overeating: If your Yorkie eats too much food, it can result in indigestion, vomiting, and diarrhea. Be sure to monitor your dogs food intake and consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
Dietary changes: Introducing a new brand of dog food, or switching to a new type of diet (such as raw food), can cause digestive upset in some dogs. Its important to transition your Yorkies diet slowly over a period of several days.
Allergies: Similar to humans, some dogs can develop food allergies or sensitivities. This can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
Infection: Yorkies can develop bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections that affect the stomach and intestines, such as gastroenteritis.
Pancreatitis: This condition occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, often due to a high-fat meal. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Intestinal obstruction: If your Yorkie ingests a foreign object (such as a toy), it can become lodged in the intestine and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Inflammatory bowel disease: This chronic condition can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. The cause is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an abnormal immune response.
Stomach cancer: While relatively rare, stomach tumors can occur in dogs, including Yorkies. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

How to Prevent Yorkie Stomach Problems

Here are some common ways to prevent Yorkie stomach problems:

Feed them a high-quality diet: Feeding your Yorkie a high-quality, balanced diet can go a long way in preventing stomach problems. Look for dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Avoid giving them table scraps: Feeding your Yorkie table scraps can upset their stomach and potentially cause other health problems. Stick to their regular diet and avoid giving them human food.
Feed them small meals throughout the day: Yorkies have small stomachs, so feeding them several small meals throughout the day can be easier on their digestive system.
Dont let them eat too quickly: Eating too quickly can lead to stomach problems in Yorkies. Try using a slow-feeder bowl or feeding them small portions at a time.
Keep them hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for preventing stomach problems. Make sure your Yorkie always has access to clean water.
Avoid sudden changes in diet: Sudden changes in diet can cause stomach upset in Yorkies. If you need to switch their food, do it gradually over several days.
Address stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can cause stomach problems in dogs, including Yorkies. Try to reduce stressors in their environment and provide plenty of exercises and mental stimulation.
Keep them up to date on vaccinations: Some stomach problems in Yorkies can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Keeping up to date on their vaccinations can help prevent these illnesses.
Monitor their behavior: If you notice any changes in your Yorkies behavior or appetite, it could be a sign of stomach problems. Monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Treating Yorkie Stomach Problems

Keep in mind that if your dogs symptoms persist or worsen, or if your dog seems to be in pain, its important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Here are a few things you can try at home:

Fasting: Limit your dogs food intake for 1224 hours to give their digestive system a rest.
Bland Diet: Once the fasting period is over, give your Yorkie a bland diet consisting of boiled rice and chicken, which can be easily digested.
Probiotics: Probiotics can help promote a healthy balance of good bacteria in your dogs gut, which can help alleviate digestive issues.
Limited Ingredient Diet: If your dog has a food sensitivity or allergies, switching to a limited ingredient diet can help alleviate stomach problems.
Hydration: Its important to make sure your Yorkie stays hydrated when experiencing digestive problems. Offer small amounts of water frequently throughout the day.

If your Yorkie is experiencing more severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea with blood or mucus, constipation, or weight loss, its important to seek veterinary care.

Learn more about Yorkie sick signs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking care of your Yorkies stomach is crucial for their overall health and happiness.

Whether its providing a healthy diet, identifying potential digestive issues, or seeking medical attention when necessary, there are many ways to ensure your furry friend is feeling their best.

Dont forget to give your Yorkie lots of love and belly rubs along the way and look out for stress symptoms!

How Much Should My Yorkie Weigh?

Yorkshire terriers are prized for their courageous demeanor crammed into a small body. You may have the question arising in your brain, How Much Should My Yorkie Weigh? The answer isnt always to the point, and there are numerous factors that influence the size of a Yorkie. Genetics, nutrition, and overall health all play a part.

In this article, you will come across

A Yorkie weight chart so you can keep track of your puppys development.
Information on the average Yorkie weight.
And much more

How Much Should Yorkies Weigh?

Yorkshire Terriers should weigh 7 pounds (3.18 kg) or less and of height between 7 and 8 inches (17.8 20.3 cm) tall at the withers (the ridge at the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades). These restrictions, however, do not apply to all Yorkies.

What Should Yorkies Weigh?

Ideally, Yorkshire Terriers should weigh 7 pounds (3.18 kg) or less and of height between 7 and 8 inches (17.8 20.3 cm) tall at the withers (the ridge at the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades).

You should keep in mind that the above-mentioned information may not be applied to all Yorkies. If you find your Yorkies weight to be too little or too much, its best to consult a vet.

Yorkshire terrier weight chart by age & weight

According to PetMD, you can compare your Yorkies weight using the following weight chart.

So, if your Yorkies birthweight is around 3 oz, then by the second week, as per the table, his weight should be 6 to 7 oz and by the tenth week, it should be 19 to 20 oz.

Birth	2.5 oz	2.75 oz	3 oz	3.5 oz	4 oz	4.25 oz	4.5 oz	5 oz	5.5 oz
1 week	4.5	5	5.5	6	7	7.5	8	9	9.5
2 weeks	6	6.5	7	8.5	10	11	12	13	13.5
3 weeks	7	8	8.5	10.5	13	14	15	16	17.5
4 weeks	8	9.5	10	12	14.5	16	18	20	21
5 weeks	9	11	11.5	13.5	16	18	20	22	24
6 weeks	10	12.5	13	15	17.5	20	23	24	27
7 weeks	11	12	14.5	17	19	22	25	27	30
8 weeks	12	13.5	16	19	21.5	24	27	29	32
9 weeks	13	15	18	22	23	26	30	33	35
10 weeks	14	16	20	24	25	28	33	36	38
11 weeks	15	17	21	26	28	31	36	39	42
12 weeks	16	18	22	28	32	35	40	43	45
13 weeks	17	20	24	30	34	36	42	45	48
14 weeks	18	22	26	32	36	39	44	47	51
15 weeks	19	23	28	34	38	42	46	51	55
16 weeks	20	25	30	36	40	44	49	54	59
17 weeks	21	26	31	38	42	46	51	57	62
18 weeks	22	28	33	39	44	48	54	60	65
19 weeks	23	29	34	40	45	50	56	62	67
20 weeks	24	30	35	41	46	52	58	64	70
21 weeks	25	31	36	42	48	54	60	66	72
22 weeks	25	32	37	43	48	56	62	68	74
23 weeks	26	33	38	44	50	57	64	70	76
24 weeks	26	33	39	45	51	58	65	71	78
25 weeks	27	34	40	46	52	59	66	72	79
26 weeks	27	34	40	47	53	60	67	73	80
Final Adult Weight	2 lb	2.5 lb	3 lb	3.5 lb	4 lb	4.5 lb	5 lb	5.5 lb	6 lb

How Much Does A Teacup Yorkie Weigh?

A Teacup Yorkies average weight is 2 to 4 pounds, and its maximum height is 7 inches.

Teacup Yorkies are a miniature version of Yorkshire Terriers, as the name suggests. Due to their cuteness, they are popular among pet owners who enjoy small dogs or the so-called toy breed.

Teacup Yorkies are adorable pets with sweet personalities. Theyre also very compact, which is ideal if you only have a limited amount of space at home. You can keep your Teacup healthy for years with proper care and attention. The right supplements and food will also help your dogs overall health.

Teacups can easily fit in your hand or a small dog bag because they are so small. Many Teacup Yorkies are only 5 to 7 inches tall, making them perfect for cradling in your palm! Some owners will spend a small fortune grooming their dogs to make them look like teddy bears.

During the first 12 weeks of growth, depending on the size of your Teacup Yorkie at birth, it will gain 1 to 2 lbs and 2 to 3 inches, and 2 to 4 lbs and 5 to 6 inches by week 24. A full-grown Teacup Yorkie can weigh 2 to 4 pounds and stand 5 to 7 inches tall.

Also Read: What is the average lifespan of a Yorkie?

What Is The Average Size (Height) Of A Yorkie?

When measured from the ground to the ridge between their shoulder blades, fully grown Yorkshire Terriers are typically 7 to 8 inches (17.8 20.3 cm) tall. The length of a Yorkie should be roughly equal to their height (measured from the base of their neck to the base of their tail).

Yorkie sizes, on the other hand, can and do vary. Its not uncommon for siblings to have vastly different sizes. Birth weight, nutrition, and genetics all play a role in determining size differences.

Yorkies are small no matter where they fall on the spectrum, but if your Yorkie is much shorter than 7 inches (17.8 cm), you should ask your veterinarian to check for any health issues. Yorkies that are too small are prone to a number of health problems.

While there are larger purebred Yorkies out there, your dog may not be purebred if your Yorkie is over 8 inches tall.

What Is The Average Weight Of A Yorkie?

Yorkies usually weigh between 4 and 7 pounds (1.81 and 3.18 kilograms), though purebred Yorkies can weigh up to 10 pounds.

Also Read: When do yorkies stop growing?

According to Dr. Alison Colyer, DVM, there have also been reports of purebred Yorkies weighing more than 15 pounds, which is unusual. However, when Yorkies grow to be so large, its usually because a larger dog breed was introduced somewhere in their ancestry.

You shouldnt be concerned as long as your Yorkie is healthy and follows a balanced diet and gets plenty of exercises. The weight of Yorkies varies depending on their diet, exercise, and lifestyle. However, your Yorkie is considered underweight if it weighs less than 4 pounds (1.81kg) when fully grown.

Teacup Yorkies are Yorkies that weigh less than 4 pounds. These dogs are at risk of developing a variety of health issues.

How Much Should A Healthy Yorkie Weigh?

A healthy Yorkie should weigh around 4 to 6 pounds. However, it should weigh no more than 7 pounds.

If youre having trouble weighing your dog on a scale or arent sure if theyre the right

weight for their size, you can always do a visual or physical examination of their body.

How To Inspect The Weight Of Your Yorkie?

To do a visual assessment, look down at your dog from behind. As you move your gaze from their ribcage to their waist, your dogs waist should gently curve inward. The curve inward will be sharp and noticeably smaller if your dog is underweight.
You can also inspect your dogs abdomen by looking at its side profile. Your dogs abdomen will slope slightly upward from the rib cage if they are a healthy weight. A skinny dog will have no visible body fat and will have its stomach tucked sharply upward from the ribs.
To check their weight, place your hands on the sides of their bodies, near the rib cage. Without being able to see them, you should be able to feel each rib. If you can see your dogs ribs, he or she is underweight. But, if you cant feel their ribs, theyre either overweight or in need of more exercise.

If the hair on your Yorkie prevents you from making a visual assessment, you can use your hand to look for obvious physical signs that your dog is overweight or underweight.

Run your fingers down your dogs spine and then feel for their pelvic bone to complete this assessment.

What Are the Signs That My Yorkie Is Overweight?

Each breed, like each person, is unique. So dont be alarmed if the number on the scale when you weigh your Yorkie at home appears to be quite large.

Instead, get out your calculator and do some math. Get a chart from your veterinarian or look it up online that shows your dogs ideal weight based on his breed, height, and age.

1. Comparatively Heavier Than The Usual Range

Your Yorkie is overweight if he is 5 to 19 percent heavier than he should be. A small change in his routine and diet can have a significant impact on his overall health, not just on the scale. If he is 20% heavier than normal, more drastic measures may be required.

Ideally, a Yorkie should weigh between four to seven pounds.

2. Rib Test

The rib test is a good indicator if youre not sure whether your Yorkie is overweight or not. Circumambulate his flanks and abdomen with your hands. You should be able to feel the ribs on a dog that is at its ideal weight (but not see them, which would mean your dog is too skinny). If you cant find them, if you cant feel them through your dogs fat, its time to change his diet and get him to exercise.

3. Lethargic and Lazy Behavior

Your Yorkie used to be incredibly energetic, to the point of depleting your own reserves. When he was a puppy, he used to play around, go fetch, be excited whenever you returned home, try to catch his tail, or, much to your dismay, try to chase bicycles and cars. He now prefers the comfort of his couch to play outside, and sleeping has gradually become more appealing.

If this sounds familiar, its possible that your Yorkie has become apathetic as a result of his weight, which prevents him from being active, or because exercising requires a lot more effort than it used to. Your dog will be exhausted if he is carrying too much weight. A general feeling of this laziness could indicate that your Yorkie is overweight.

Can A Yorkie Weigh 15 Pounds?

Though Yorkies should weigh 4 7 pounds, pet Yorkies can weigh up to 12 15 pounds.

If your Yorkie is 15 pounds, it doesnt always mean that he is overweight. If your four-legged friend is short and has a lot of body mass, it is a cause of concern, as the weight can be considered overweight.

However, a lean and tall Yorkie weighing 15 pounds is usually normal. Its best to do a quick rib test as discussed in the earlier sections to determine this.

How Big Is A Full Size Yorkie?

Yorkies are finished growing by the age of two, and their weight should not fluctuate much if they are fed a balanced, consistent diet.

When measured from the ground to the ridge between their shoulder blades, fully grown Yorkshire Terriers are typically 7 to 8 inches (17.8 20.3 cm) tall.

Theyll have formed a strong bond by this point, and they wont want to be left alone, so they may follow you around the house at times. Theyll act as a miniature guard dog, patrolling your home and alerting you to any unusual activity. Especially if its a pesky squirrel thats invading your yard!

Is A Large Yorkie Still Healthy?

When compared to other dog breeds, even large Yorkies are still small. If your Yorkie weighs more than 9 pounds but doesnt appear overweight and your veterinarian is unconcerned, you shouldnt be concerned.

According to Dr. Krista Williams, DVM, a Yorkies weight is determined by both their bone structure and their diet. Dogs that are taller and longer in stature will also weigh more. The amount they weigh will be determined by their stature and muscle mass.

Any dog can carry an excessive amount of weight. Yorkshire Terriers weighing more than 10 pounds should be examined to see if there is a need for weight loss or if excess fat is causing health problems.

What Problems Is An Overweight Yorkie Prone To?

If your Yorkie is overweight, he might have the below problems:

Diabetes
Skin issues
Heart problems
Joint problems
Kidney defects
Canine arthritis
Liver-related issues
Mobility and locomotive problems
Breathing problems
High blood pressure

How To Make Your Yorkie Lose Weight?

If you feel that your Yorkie is overweight, you can follow the below steps to control his weight:

Fewer calories
Increased physical activity
Keeping them active
Healthier diet
Cut down carbs
More fiber and veggies

How To Make Your Yorkie Gain Weight?

An underweight Yorkie, weighing less than 4 pounds is prone to diseases. Hence, it is important that you follow the below steps that will help him gain some weight.