Last Updated on September 14, 2021 by Marco C.
The lifespan of yorkie poo is as long as its parents, it is a mix between Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle. Yorkie poo is an energetic, intelligent, affectionate dog that many owners seek to adopt. Continue reading to know more about yorkie poo life span and how to take care of it.
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The Lifespan Of Yorkie Poo
Yorkie poo life expectancy ranges between 10-15 years. It is a hybrid between Yorkshire terrier and poodle that have the same average lifespan. It has a funny and intelligent temperament however, it enjoys barking a lot. Additionally, Yorkie poo does not shed a lot so it is a hypoallergenic dog.
Common Health Problems Of Yorkie Poo
Although it is a healthy breed, Yorkie poo can be vulnerable to some health conditions that would decrease its lifespan. Here are some diseases that affect the lifespan of yorkie poo
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that is often inherited. It is characterized by seizure episodes that do not have specific reasons till now however, there is an alteration in brain function causing changes in brain activity. Symptoms of epilepsy include seizures, falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Your dog may show seizures as unusual behavior, for instance running with fear that makes you think someone is chasing him. After diagnosis, your vet will prescribe some anticonvulsants that your dog will take for life including phenobarbital, potassium bromide, zonisamide, and levetiracetam.
Patellar Luxation (Slipped Stifles)
Patellar luxation is a common condition in small-sized dogs. It happens when the knee cap does not fit properly in its joint causing pain and lameness. It has four grades, all of them can be corrected manually however the fourth grade needs a surgical operation. According to a study published in Dove Press journal, the prognosis of patellar luxation is favorable and the dog’s limb returns to its normal functions.
Portosystemic Shunt (PSS)
Portosystemic Shunt usually appears before two years of age. It is an abnormal connection between the liver and blood. Normally, the liver takes the blood to detoxify it to be free from toxins however this abnormal connection hinders this process causing these toxins to enter the circulation again. Signs of this condition include neurological signs ( ataxia, seizures, blindness, head pressing) and other signs such as appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, excessive urination, and drinking, and blood in the urine. PSS can be corrected surgically but before going for the surgery, your vet will prescribe some medication to improve your dog’s health.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
This condition occurs when there is no blood supply go to the head of the femur. The femur is the bone that forms the hip joint. When blood supply is insufficient, the bone starts to die leading eventually to collapse of the hip and arthritis. The reason behind blood supply alteration is still unknown and signs appear as early as three months or as late as 18 months. Lameness and pain are symptoms of Legg-calve-Perthes disease. However, it usually affects one leg that the dog can not bear weight on it. In mild cases, your vet would prescribe some medications and advise you to keep your dog away from obesity. However, in severe cases, surgery is the optimal treatment.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a low blood thyroxin level due to thyroid gland dysfunction. Although it is a lifetime condition, the treatments can correct it easily.
Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)
Addison’s disease is a dysfunction of the adrenal gland that makes it unable to secrete sufficient amounts of aldosterone and cortisol. These hormones are responsible for the regulation of your dog’s internal organs and body systems. The reason for this dysfunction is unknown however, doctors suspect it may be an autoimmune disease.
Symptoms include depression, lethargy, appetite, and weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heart rate, Low temperature, and hypoglycemia. The first-line treatment is to manage the symptoms then the vet will prescribe hormonal medication to your dog for the rest of its life.
How To Prolong The Lifespan Of Yorkie Poo
Before adopting this little furry friend, you must consider his health and care. Think about how would you take care of it to live a healthy life. Here are some tips to follow to improve the lifespan of yorkie poo
Exercise
Yorkie poo is an energetic dog that is intelligent and can learn tricks. It does well in training, however, do not be aggressive with it in training otherwise it will be stubborn. Also, Yorkie poo doesn’t love repetitive training so try to be creative and use treats.
Learn more about: 200 Best Yorkie Poo Names Female Yorkshire Terriers Can Have
Health
A healthy Yorkie poo depends on its parents if they are free from certain diseases or not. When deciding to adopt this intelligent funny-loving puppy, search for a reputable breeder. Additionally, you have to ask about health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia (with a score of fair or better), elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease; from Auburn University for thrombophilia; and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) certifying that eyes are normal.
Keep regular visits to the vet especially if there are early abnormal signs for a good prognosis. Do not forget vaccinations. Ask the vet to teach you how to clean your Yorkie poo’s ears to prevent infections.
Grooming
The hair of Yorkie poo is soft and silky that requires regular brushing to avoid tangling. Trim the long hair above its eyes to avoid irritation and infections. Bathe your Yorkie poo when it’s necessary, you do not have to follow a schedule.
Yorkie poo is vulnerable to teeth and gum diseases so brush its teeth at least two or three times a week. However, I recommend you brush it daily-of course if you can-to avoid gum disease and bad breath. Also, trim its nails once or twice a month by a professional groomer.
Feeding
Ensure feeding it organic food free from GMOs. High-quality dry food is the best to be divided into two meals per day.
Conclusion
The lifespan of yorkie poo is 10-15 years. Yorkie poo is an intelligent, fun-loving dog that is considered a great companion dog. For more questions, please leave your comments below.