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Yorkie Care Guide for South African Owners

Practical, honest guidance for caring for a Yorkshire Terrier in South Africa — from feeding and grooming to health watch-points and senior care. Whether you are a new adopter or an experienced Yorkie owner, this guide covers what matters.

Feeding your Yorkie

Yorkies have small stomachs and fast metabolisms. They need small, frequent meals rather than one large feed. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) is a real risk in small Yorkies and puppies — skipping meals can be dangerous.

How often to feedAdult Yorkies: twice daily (morning and late afternoon). Puppies under 6 months: three to four small meals a day. Senior Yorkies may need smaller, more frequent meals.
What to feedA high-quality small-breed dry food is a good base. Wet food can be mixed in for variety and hydration. Avoid foods with artificial colours, excessive fillers, or high fat content.
Foods to avoidChocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (in sugar-free products), and cooked bones are toxic to dogs. Keep these well out of reach.
Fresh water alwaysClean water should be available at all times. Yorkies can dehydrate quickly in South African summer heat.

Grooming and coat care

Yorkies have hair, not fur — more like human hair than typical dog coat. It grows continuously and needs regular attention.

  • Brushing: Daily or every second day with a pin brush or slicker brush. Mats and tangles are painful if left.
  • Bathing: Every 2-4 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. Too frequent bathing strips natural oils.
  • Haircuts: Every 6-8 weeks. Many SA owners keep Yorkies in a "puppy cut" for easier maintenance.
  • Ears: Check weekly for dirt, wax buildup, or signs of infection. Clean gently with dog ear cleaner.
  • Nails: Trim every 3-4 weeks. Overgrown nails cause discomfort and can affect the dog's gait.
  • Teeth: Yorkies are prone to dental disease. Brush teeth 2-3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Annual dental checks are recommended.

Health watch-points for Yorkies

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)Especially in small/teacup Yorkies and puppies. Signs: lethargy, trembling, weakness, seizures. Prevention: regular small meals. Emergency: rub honey or glucose syrup on gums and get to a vet.
Luxating patella (slipping kneecap)Common in small breeds. Signs: skipping or hopping on a back leg, then walking normally. Mild cases need monitoring; severe cases may need surgery.
Collapsing tracheaCauses a honking cough, especially when excited or pulling on a lead. Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the throat.
Dental diseaseYorkies have small mouths with crowded teeth. Plaque builds up fast. Regular brushing and vet dental cleanings prevent painful tooth loss and infections.
Eye issuesYorkies can develop dry eye, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Watch for squinting, cloudiness, or discharge.
Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt)A congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver. Signs: poor growth, neurological symptoms after eating, seizures. Needs veterinary diagnosis.

Exercise and mental stimulation

Yorkies are energetic, intelligent dogs. They need daily exercise and mental engagement — but in small doses suited to their size.

  • Daily walks: 20-30 minutes, once or twice a day. Use a harness, not a collar.
  • Indoor play: Fetch, tug, hide-and-seek. Yorkies thrive on interaction with their people.
  • Puzzle toys: Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys keep their minds busy. A bored Yorkie is a destructive Yorkie.
  • Socialisation: Introduce your Yorkie to different people, dogs, and environments early. Positive experiences build confidence.

Senior Yorkie care

Yorkies often live 12-16 years. Senior care needs extra attention:

  • Diet adjustments: Senior dogs may need fewer calories but more joint support (glucosamine, omega-3s).
  • Softer bedding: Older Yorkies appreciate orthopaedic beds for achy joints.
  • More frequent vet checks: Every 6 months for seniors — catch issues early.
  • Dental monitoring: Tooth loss and gum disease accelerate with age.
  • Temperature sensitivity: Senior Yorkies feel the cold more. A jersey in winter helps.
  • Patience with routine changes: Older dogs may take longer to adjust to new homes. Give them time.

First-aid essentials for Yorkie owners

Keep a basic first-aid kit at home:

  • Antibiotic cream and disinfectant
  • Sterile eye wash and ear cleaner
  • Gauze pads, bandages, adhesive tape
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Rectal thermometer (normal dog temp: 38-39°C)
  • Activated charcoal (for toxin ingestion — vet instruction only)
  • Your vet's emergency number saved in your phone

Important: Yorkies are small and can deteriorate quickly. If your dog seems seriously unwell — lethargic, not eating, vomiting repeatedly, or in visible distress — do not wait. Go to a vet.

Thinking of adopting a Yorkie?

Now that you know what Yorkie care involves, browse available Yorkies looking for homes through SA Yorkie Rescue.

View available YorkiesAdoption guideMore care guides on YorkieSA