About The Breed:
Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terrier puppies are an adorable and affectionate dog breed that is known for their energetic and playful nature. They are small in size, making them an ideal family pet. Their silky hair and button noses make them one of the cutest dog breeds around. Yorkshire Terrier puppies are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great candidate for obedience training. They love to play and be around their owners, and can quickly become a beloved and loyal companion. Overall, these puppies make a wonderful addition to any home and bring a lot of happiness and joy to their owners' lives!
Yorkshire Terrier: A Palette of Colors
If you've ever seen a Yorkshire Terrier up close, you know how charming and adorable they can be. But did you know that these pint-sized pups come in a wide array of colors? Forget the notion that Yorkshire Terriers are solely black and tan. Today, we'll embark on a colorful journey through some of the various shades and patterns of Yorkshire Terrier coats.
1. Traditional Black and Tan: The classic Yorkshire Terrier is most commonly seen in this color combination. With a glossy, jet black topcoat and rich tan markings on their face, legs, and chest, they exude elegance and sophistication.
2. Blue and Tan: A more rare and intriguing color combination, the blue and tan Yorkshire Terrier stands out from the crowd. Their coat is a luscious shade of silver-blue, complemented by the contrasting tan markings. This unique coloration is a favorite among Yorkshire Terrier enthusiasts who love a touch of originality.
3. Golddust: The golden Yorkshire Terrier is a real head-turner. These fur babies have a lush and flowing coat of warm, golden hues. They may have a varying range of lighter or deeper golden shades, but their beauty remains consistent. Golden Yorkshire Terriers truly radiate sunshine and capture hearts with their stunning appearance.
5. Parti-Color: Parti-color Yorkshire Terriers flaunt a coat that combines patches of two or more different colors. The possibilities are endless! From a blend of black, white, and tan to combinations of chocolate, white, and gold - these unique Yorkies are like living works of art. No two parti-color Yorkshire Terriers are alike, making them a true rarity.
6. Sable: Think of a golden, sandy beach and you'll picture the sable Yorkshire Terrier. These little darlings have a coat that carries a blend of varying shades of gold and off-white. The unique color distribution creates a lovely gradient effect, captivating anyone who is fortunate enough to lay eyes on them.
7. Chocolate: Imagine a Yorkshire Terrier with a coat as rich and inviting as melted chocolate. These chocolate-toned beauties possess a coat that ranges from rich, dark chocolate to lighter and milk chocolate shades. With their warm and sweet appearance, it's impossible not to melt over these adorable canines.
8. Blue Merle: is a masterpiece of nature, combining various shades of grey, black, and white, with the occasional specks of tan or brown adding a touch of warmth and depth. Its striking and unique markings resemble the patterns seen in the merle gene, which is typically seen in larger breeds. However, the Yorkshire Terrier's smaller size makes their blue merle appearance even more enchanting and adorable.
Bathing: Yorkies don't need to be bathed too often, as their coat doesn't produce a lot of oil and can dry out easily. However, you should still give your Yorkie a bath every few weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy. When bathing your Yorkie, use a mild dog shampoo and be sure to rinse thoroughly. Avoid getting water in your Yorkie's ears, as this can cause infection.
Haircuts: Yorkies have hair that grows continuously, so they require regular haircuts to keep their coat looking neat and tidy. Many Yorkie owners opt for a "puppy cut," which is a short, low-maintenance style that is easy to maintain. If you're not comfortable giving your Yorkie a haircut yourself, take them to a professional groomer who has experience with Yorkies.
Nail trimming: Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even pain for your Yorkie, so it's important to keep their nails trimmed. You should trim your Yorkie's nails every few weeks using a sharp, sturdy pair of dog nail clippers. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, ask your vet or a professional groomer to show you how.
Yorkshire Terrier Exercise Requirements
Although Yorkies are small in size, they have high energy levels and need adequate exercise to prevent obesity, boredom, and behavioral issues. Ideally, a Yorkie should get at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise every day. Each puppy purchased from us will come with suggested training methods.
Walks: Yorkies love going for walks and exploring their surroundings. Taking them for a 15 to 20-minute walk at a moderate pace, twice a day can help them burn off their energy and keep them healthy. However, be careful not to overwork your Yorkie, especially in hot weather, as they are prone to heatstroke.
Indoor Playtime: Yorkies can be stimulated easily, and indoor playtime can be a great exercise option for these dogs. You can play fetch, hide-and-seek or any other interactive games that keep them active and engaged.
Obedience Training: Yorkies are intelligent dogs and enjoy training sessions. Enrolling your Yorkie in obedience training classes or teaching them new tricks can be a great way to mentally stimulate your furry friend and provide additional exercise.
It is also essential to remember that every dog is unique, and their exercise needs may vary based on age, health, and activity level. As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian about the best exercise routine for your Yorkie. Yorkies have a high energy level and need adequate exercise to stay healthy and happy. As long as you provide consistent physical activities and mentally stimulate them, your Yorkie will be a joyful and lively companion.
Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Hypoglycemia
Here at Hummingbird Farm & Gardens, the well-being of our furry friends is of utmost importance. Today, we wanted to shed light on a common concern among Yorkshire Terrier puppy owners - hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, can be a serious issue for Yorkshire Terrier puppies, as they are particularly susceptible to this condition. This is due to their small size and high-energy levels, which can result in quick depletion of their glucose reserves.
So, what are the signs of hypoglycemia in Yorkshire Terrier puppies? The most typical symptoms include weakness, lethargy, trembling, lack of coordination, seizures, and even unconsciousness. If you notice any of these signs, it is vital to act promptly to prevent any potentially severe outcomes.
To combat hypoglycemia, prevention is key. Ensuring your Yorkshire Terrier puppy maintains a healthy blood sugar level is essential. Here are a few practical steps you can take to keep your puppy healthy and happy:
1. Frequent Meals: Yorkshire Terrier puppies should be fed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Rather than relying on two or three larger meals, dividing their daily food intake into five or six smaller portions can help maintain a stable blood sugar level.
2. Scheduled Feeding: Establishing a routine feeding schedule is crucial. Puppies thrive on consistency, and having set meal times will help regulate their metabolism and blood sugar levels. Regular feeding times will prevent hypoglycemic episodes caused by prolonged fasting.
3. Balanced Diet: Providing a well-balanced diet formulated for puppies is essential. High-quality dog food specifically designed for small or toy breeds is ideal for meeting their nutritional requirements. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your Yorkshire Terrier puppy's needs.
4. Snacks: In addition to regular meals, offering healthy snacks between meals can help maintain blood sugar levels. Opt for treats that are low in sugar but high in protein. This can include small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or even specialized dog treats made for puppies.
5. Adequate Rest: Ensuring your Yorkshire Terrier puppy gets enough rest is crucial for their overall health. Puppies need plenty of sleep to recharge their energy levels and prevent them from tiring out quickly, which can potentially lead to hypoglycemia.
Here are some grooming needs that every Yorkie owner should know
Brushing: Yorkies have a long, silky coat that tangles easily. Brushing your Yorkie's coat daily will help to prevent matting and tangling. You should use a slicker brush or a pin brush to gently brush your Yorkie's coat, starting at the head and working your way down to the tail. Be sure to focus on the areas that are more prone to tangling, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
Puppy Grooming Checklist Schedule
Yorkshire Terriers are adorable little dogs that require regular grooming to keep them healthy and beautiful. By following these grooming needs, you can help your Yorkie look and feel their best. Pupwell products make it easy to grooming your pooch at home! They make professional grade products made with quality to last. Grooming at home can be a great experience to have with your pup & help you foster a beautiful bond of trust and friendship.
Yorkie Puppy Shots: When to Get Them & What to Get
As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of your Yorkie puppy. One essential aspect of this is ensuring they receive the necessary vaccinations. Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your furry friend from potentially life-threatening diseases. Here's a guide on when to get your Yorkie puppy shots and what vaccinations they need.
Timeline for Yorkie Puppy Shots:
Yorkie puppies typically receive a series of vaccinations during their first year of life. This ensures that they develop immunity against various diseases. Here's a general timeline for when to get your Yorkie puppy shots:
1. 6-8 Weeks: At this age, your Yorkie puppy should receive their first round of vaccinations. The primary shots given during this time are for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. These initial vaccinations typically come in a combination shot called the DA2P or DHPP vaccine.
2. 10-12 Weeks: Your Yorkie puppy should receive a second round of vaccinations at this stage. These shots will mainly focus on boosting their immunity against distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. We do not recommend leptospirosis and coronavirus vaccines.
3. 14-16 Weeks: The third round of vaccinations is crucial for your Yorkie puppy's overall protection. During this visit, they should receive a booster for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. They may also receive the rabies vaccine, which is required by law in many areas. Ask your vet if you wait on the rabies vaccine. At this young age, it's very hard on their fragile systems.
4. 12-16 Months: Once your Yorkie puppy reaches their first year, it's time for their adult vaccinations. They typically receive boosters for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and rabies.
Additional Considerations:
Apart from the core vaccinations mentioned above, your veterinarian may recommend additional shots based on several factors, such as geographical location or individual health risks. Some common additional vaccines for Yorkies include:
Bordetella: Protects against kennel cough, which can be contracted in places with a high number of dogs, such as boarding facilities & dog parks. Only recommended 3 days prior to boarding when required (Immunity duration only 6 months. Protects against few variants of kennel cough).
Shots We DO NOT Recommend & Why
Corona: 1. Disease only affects dogs <6 weeks of age 2. Rare disease
(1 case in 7 years according to TAMU 3. Efficacy of the vaccine is questionable.Leptospirosis: Low risk in southwest states ( CA reported 12 cases on average). Vaccine commonly protects against wrong strain/variants. Adverse reactions are VERY common. If you want your dog to have this shot, consider giving an antihistamine preemptively.
Lyme: Low risk in southwest states. Possibly side effect of polyarthritis.
Welcoming Your New 8-Week Old Yorkie Puppy Home
Congratulations on bringing home your adorable 8-week old Yorkie puppy! Now that you have embarked on this exciting journey, it is important to ensure a smooth transition for your new furry friend. Here are some essential steps to follow when bringing your Yorkie puppy home:
1. Create a safe space: Before your puppy arrives, prepare a designated area in your home where they can feel secure. This space should be puppy-proofed to prevent any accidents or potential hazards. Remove any toxic plants, chemicals, or small objects that might be within their reach.
2. Introduce them to their own space: Set up a comfortable crate or puppy pen in your safe area. This will become your Yorkie's den where they can rest, sleep, and seek solace. Make sure it is cozy, with a soft bed and some toys to keep them entertained.
3. Establish a routine: Puppies thrive on routines. Establish a regular schedule for feeding, toilet breaks, playtime, and naps. Consistency will help your Yorkie puppy feel secure and quickly adapt to their new surroundings.
4. Introduce them gradually: After settling into their secure area, slowly introduce your puppy to the rest of your home, one room at a time. Supervise their exploration and prevent them from accessing any areas that might pose a danger or require potty training.
5. Potty training: Be prepared for accidents during the initial stage. Take your Yorkie puppy outside to relieve themselves every 1-2 hours, after meals, after playtime, and upon waking up. Praise and reward them when they potty in appropriate areas to reinforce good behavior. It can take severals week for them to be consistent with potting in the correct area.
6. Socialization: Introduce your Yorkie puppy to family members and other well-vaccinated pets gradually. Expose them to positive experiences with different people, sounds, and environments to build confidence and prevent anxiety.
7. Consult your veterinarian: Schedule a visit to the veterinarian within the first few days of bringing your puppy home. They will perform a health check, provide vaccinations if necessary, and offer guidance on nutrition, grooming, training, and overall care.
8. Positive reinforcement training: Begin basic obedience training using positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and patience. Start with simple commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Be consistent, keep the training sessions short, and make it enjoyable for your
Helpful Tips for Feeding a Picky Yorkie Puppy
Dealing with a picky eater can be quite concerning for pet owners, especially when it comes to puppies who require adequate nutrition for their growth and development. If you have a picky Yorkie puppy that's refusing to eat, here are some helpful tips to entice their appetite and make sure they're receiving the necessary nutrients:
1. Consult the vet: Before making any changes to your puppy's diet, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues that might be causing the loss of appetite and provide valuable guidance. When was your puppy dewormed last? Consider having your vet run a fecal sample.
2. Stick to a schedule: Establish a regular feeding schedule for your picky eater. Offer smaller portions of food at regular intervals, usually three to four times a day for puppies. Consistency and routine can help create a healthier eating pattern.
3. Choose high-quality food: Ensure you're providing a nutritious and balanced diet that meets the specific needs of a growing Yorkie puppy. Opt for high-quality, prepared puppy foods that contain real meat, essential vitamins, and minerals. Look for options formulated for small breeds and tailored to support a healthy coat and digestion.
4. Warm it up: Some puppies are more inclined to eat if the food is warmed slightly. Heating the food for a few seconds in the microwave can release enticing aromas and increase its palatability. Be sure to check that it's not too hot before serving. Puppies love goats milk! You can find it as Walmart.
5. Enhance the flavor: Adding low-sodium chicken stock or bone broth or a small amount of canned dog food (mixed with kibble) to the regular diet can enhance the flavor and texture, making the meal more appealing to your picky eater. Gradually reduce the addition as your puppy's appetite improves.
6. Consider homemade options: If commercial food fails to entice your puppy, consider preparing homemade meals. Consult with your vet or a canine nutritionist to ensure you're providing a nutritionally complete and balanced diet. Homemade options usually include lean proteins (chicken or turkey), brown rice, and steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans. We like Badland’s Ranch (linked here) as well as Stella & Chewy’s freeze dried raw (linked here).
7. Avoid excessive treats: Limit the number of treats you give your Yorkie puppy, as too many treats can fill them up and reduce their interest in their regular meals.
8. Create a positive environment: Make mealtime a positive and stress-free experience! You can also use meal times at training opportunities. Use their regular food in place of treats. Play training games with your puppy to interact & break boredom. Our favorite puppy training program is Baxter & Bella (linked here).
Teaching Your Puppy Hand-Targeting “touch”
The first thing I learned from a puppy trainer back in 2019 was to teach my dog the cue “touch”. My trainer explained to me this cue was a great foundational tool for your puppy to learn. I was able to teach my dog how to ring potty bells by the door when he needed to go outside by teaching him “touch” first.
What you’ll need:
A puppy
Clicker
High value treats (my dogs LOVE freeze dried liver)
Hand Targeting “TOUCH” Basics
Hold your hand close to your dogs, nose, and click (with the other other hand) any movement or look toward it. Remove your hand and after each click, then treat.
Hold your hand 1 inch to the right or left of the dogs nose: click any movement toward your hand.
Hold your hand 1 inch above or below your dogs nose, click any movement toward or touch your hand.
As your dog is reliably moving toward your hand and touching it with his nose, begin to move in various positions, still holding it very close to the dog’s nose.
Begin to move your hand slightly further away; click any movement the dog makes towards your hand.
Continue to move your hands in various directions and positions varying more difficult with easy.
When your dog has done the hand-touch several times, and you are willing to bet money he will touch your hand again, say the word “touch” JUST BEFORE you think he will touch. Click & treat as soon as he does it. Practice lots this week—it takes at least 60 times hearing the cue and doing the behavior before your dog knows what that word means.
Now, after the click, start to toss the treat a short distance away to increase the distance your dog must return for the next cued hand-touch. You can start adding some quick steps backwards to encourage your dog to come eagerly toward your hand.
Targeting can be use for all kinds of useful activities; getting in and out of cars, crates, the bath, or hopping onto the scale at the vets for example.
TIP: If your dog shows no interest in your hand, rub a bit of treat or meat on your hand to get it smelly (you only want the odor). This will get them interested in putting their nose on your hand. You should only have to do this the first session. Once the lightbulb goes on that they get paid for touching your hand, the little jump start won’t be needed.
Check out our highlight on instagram for more training videos
Keeping Your New 8-Week-Old Yorkie Safe: Choking Prevention Tips
Congratulations on bringing home your adorable new 8-week-old Yorkie! As a responsible owner, it's crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of your precious furry friend. One important aspect of puppy care is preventing choking incidents. Here are some essential tips to help you safeguard your Yorkie from choking hazards:
1. Supervision is Key
Never leave your Yorkie unattended, especially when playing with toys or eating. Choking can happen quickly, and immediate action is vital for your puppy's safety. Always keep a watchful eye on them during playtime or while they devour their meals.
2. Choose Appropriate Toys
Selecting safe toys is paramount. Opt for toys that are specifically designed for puppies and are the appropriate size for your Yorkie's tiny mouth. Avoid toys with small parts that can easily break off and become choking hazards. Rope toys, rubber chew toys, and Kong-style toys are usually safe choices.
3. Avoid Small Objects
Keep small objects and household items out of your Yorkie's reach. Yorkies have a knack for exploring their surroundings with their mouth, and accidentally ingesting small objects can lead to choking. Items like buttons, coins, rubber bands, and even children's toys should be kept well out of their reach.
4. Watch for Strings and Cords
Strings, cords, and cables are extremely dangerous for puppies as they can easily become tangled or ingested. Be mindful of dangling cords from blinds, curtains, electronics, and chargers. Use cord protectors or keep them securely out of your Yorkie's access.
5. Properly Sized Food and Treats
Ensure that the food and treats you give your Yorkie are in appropriate sizes. Avoid giving them large, hard, or tough pieces that can pose a choking risk. Instead, choose options that are small, soft, and easily chewable. Always monitor your puppy while they are enjoying their meals or treats.
6. Learn First Aid and Doggie Heimlich Maneuver
Educate yourself on basic first aid techniques for dogs, including the doggie Heimlich maneuver. Understanding how to perform the Heimlich maneuver correctly can be crucial in case your Yorkie ever experiences choking. Consult your veterinarian or take a pet first aid course to learn these valuable skills.
7. Be Prepared
Keep your veterinarian's contact information and the number for an emergency animal hospital easily accessible. In critical situations, immediate medical attention can be the difference between life and death. Being prepared will help you act swiftly if an emergency arises.
Remember, the safety of your new Yorkie puppy is your top priority. By following these precautionary measures, you can minimize the risk of choking incidents and keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and safe. If you have any concerns or questions, reach out to your veterinarian for professional guidance tailored to your specific puppy's needs. Enjoy this delightful journey with your new little companion!