Grooming Tips

Bathing

Many owners don’t realize how important it is to bathe their dog on an appropriate schedule. Bathing too frequently strips the skin of natural oils that protect and condition both the skin and coat.

It’s best to bathe your dog twice a month, with spot cleaning in between as needed. Of course, if your dog gets especially dirty or smelly, a full bath is appropriate.

 

Coat Care

My favorite tools for brushing Yorkshire Terriers are steel combs.

If you choose to groom your dog yourself and want to try shaving, it’s absolutely doable. Just remember that your dog may not look perfect at first — you’re learning. Take your time and move slowly so you don’t frighten your dog.

Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short or secured in a top knot so it doesn’t irritate the eyes. Also keep the potty areas clipped short for cleanliness. 

 

Caring for Yorkie Ears

Yorkie puppies have their ears shaved starting at 4 weeks old; mini clippers work best for this. Yorkshire Terriers are born with floppy ears, but they usually stand over time. They may flop again due to stress or during teething, since calcium is directed toward tooth development instead of ear cartilage.

You can help the ears stand by taping them, a common and harmless practice. The tape supports the ear in an upright position so the cartilage can form correctly.

Yorkies also need their ears plucked every 4–6 months. If your dog goes to a groomer, ask them to pluck the ear hairs — they know how to do this safely. 

 

The Yorkshire Terrier’s Coat

Yorkshire Terriers are a single‑coated breed, meaning they have no undercoat — just one layer of hair, similar to humans. This makes them an excellent choice for people with dog allergies. Yorkie hair doesn’t fall out and spread dander throughout the home.

Another benefit is their low‑to‑no shedding, so you won’t find dog hair all over your house or clothing.

 

Nail Trimming

Your puppy begins nail trims at 4 weeks old and continues every two weeks until going to its new home. After that, check your Yorkie’s nails at least twice a month to ensure they don’t get too long. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors may naturally wear their nails down and require less frequent trimming.

Always check both the front and back feet — they can wear unevenly, and longer nails on the back feet are easy to miss.

If you accidentally trim a nail too short, it will bleed and cause discomfort. Keep styptic powder on hand and apply a generous amount to the nail while holding it firmly to stop the bleeding.

Vaccinations & Deworming

Vaccinations play a critical role in protecting your puppy from serious and potentially fatal illnesses. Keeping your dog up to date on all required vaccines is essential for their long‑term health and safety.

At Louie Yorkie Crustables, the following vaccine schedule is used:

  • 8 weeks – 5‑Way Vaccine (Canine distemper, adenovirus type 1 – hepatitis, adenovirus type 2 – respiratory disease, parainfluenza, parvovirus)

Recommended Vaccine Schedule After You Take Your Puppy Home

  • 12 weeks – 5‑Way Vaccine

  • 16 weeks – 5‑Way Vaccine

  • 16 weeks – Rabies Vaccine (optional, based on owner preference)

 

Leptospirosis Vaccine Warning

The leptospirosis vaccine should never be given to Yorkshire Terriers, whether puppies or adults. This vaccine is known to cause adverse reactions in small breeds, and the risks often outweigh the benefits.

This vaccine is not necessary unless your dog will be roaming in wooded or rural areas where they may come into contact with wildlife such as raccoons. For the average Yorkie living a typical indoor or suburban lifestyle, this vaccine provides little benefit and can be harmful.

Avoid the leptospirosis vaccine — it can seriously harm your Yorkie.

 

As always, make sure to consult with your veterinarian regarding any questions or concerns you may have. Regular check‑ins will help ensure your puppy remains healthy and fully up to date on all recommended vaccinations and care.

 

Nutrition

Introducing a new dog food should be done gradually to avoid stomach upset. Begin by mixing ⅓ of the new food with your dog’s current food. Slowly increase the amount of new food over several days until the transition is complete. This slow change helps prevent digestive issues.

Adding raw food and raw bones can also benefit your dog’s diet by providing a more varied nutritional profile. Raw bones support dental health, and raw food can improve coat condition.

Brands I commonly use and rotate through:

  • Royal Canin Small Puppy or Royal Canin Yorkie Exclusive

  • Science Diet Mini Bites

  • Purina Pro Plan

It is extremely important to research and determine the best diet and feeding schedule for your puppy’s individual needs.

Chews are great for dental and mental stimulation, but never give rawhide. Rawhide can break off in large chunks and pose a choking hazard.

 

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar. While it may seem simple, it can become life‑threatening very quickly if you are not monitoring your dog’s eating habits and energy levels.

Toy breeds are especially prone to hypoglycemia during weaning, whelping, teething, or periods of stress. Yorkshire Terriers are particularly susceptible because they have very small fat reserves compared to larger breeds. This means they must be kept on a consistent feeding schedule, and any changes in appetite or energy should be taken seriously.

Preventing hypoglycemia is straightforward with proper routine. Maintain a consistent feeding and exercise schedule. Offering three small meals a day can help stabilize blood sugar. For puppies or dogs with known hypoglycemia issues, you may leave food and water available 24/7.

 

Signs of Hypoglycemia

Signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in dogs can range from mild weakness to life‑threatening emergencies such as seizures. Recognizing symptoms early is critical, especially in toy breeds like Yorkshire Terriers.

Early Signs

  • Lethargy: Low energy, unusual tiredness, or listlessness.

  • Loss of appetite: Refusing food or showing sudden disinterest in eating.

  • Weakness: Difficulty standing, especially in the hind legs.

  • Behavior changes: Confusion, disorientation, or unusual whining.

Severe Signs

  • Lack of coordination: Wobbling, stumbling, or a drunk‑like gait (ataxia).

  • Tremors: Shaking, shivering, or muscle twitching.

  • Collapse: Sudden inability to stand or remain conscious.

  • Seizures or coma: Severe neurological episodes, fainting, or unresponsiveness.

Immediate Action

If your dog shows mild signs, apply a small amount of corn syrup, honey, or sugar water to their gums. This provides a fast source of glucose. After stabilizing your dog, contact your veterinarian for further guidance.