Is it normal for a Yorkshire Terrier to shed a lot?
The Yorkshire Terrier breed is characterized by long silky hair. Considering this feature, one might think that these dogs shed a lot. However, this is not the case.
Features of Yorkshire Terrier Coat
The Yorkshire Terrier breed is characterized by long silky hair. Considering this feature, one might think that these dogs shed heavily. However, this is not the case. These dogs are often recommended to people with allergies to fur (although there is no one hundred percent guarantee here, the risk is still reduced) or to those who do not want to deal with constant fur cleaning throughout the house.
The thing is, the coat of this breed of dogs is not like a typical dog's coat:
- Yorkies do not have an undercoat.
- The hair of these dogs is more similar in structure to human hair than to dog hair. It is softer and more pliable.
- The coat grows continuously, so it needs to be trimmed and cared for like human hair.
The similarity between Yorkshire Terrier coat and human hair is not only in the similarity of their structure but also in how old hairs are replaced by new ones. Like humans, Yorkies undergo this process regularly, and the intensity of shedding is always approximately the same.
Similarity is also observed in the care required for the hair. If you have a Yorkie, you need to regularly:
- thoroughly wash its fur;
- carefully brush it, preventing tangling (it is good to use a moisturizing spray with oil to prevent hair splitting);
- groom it;
- use hair clips to keep the fur on the face from bothering the dog.
Quality care will help reduce the amount of hair shedding. But the overall health of the dog is also important, as it inevitably affects the condition of the coat.
Yorkshire Terriers do not typically shed heavily, and increased hair loss in specific seasons is not characteristic of them. A small amount of hair on the brush after grooming is considered normal. But once you notice excessive hair loss in your Yorkie, consult a veterinarian for advice.
Reasons for Pathological Shedding in Yorkshire Terriers
The breed is known for its robust health and increased stress tolerance. However, problems can occur with these dogs. The following symptoms are observed with pathological shedding:
- the coat looks worse than usual;
- the hair cover is thinning more and more;
- the dog's well-being may deteriorate - lethargy, loss of appetite, and mood changes are characteristic.
Often, excessive shedding is caused by internal factors. The following scenarios are possible:
- Allergy - food-related (in this case, the diet is incorrectly chosen) or contact (caused by grooming products, household chemicals used for cleaning).
- Presence of internal or skin parasites (worms, fleas, ticks). In this case, problems arise not only with shedding but also with the overall health of the dog.
- Hormonal imbalance - often occurs during sexual maturity or pregnancy in females. It can also occur due to stress or illness.
- Various pathologies and skin diseases. Diagnosis through tests and examination by a veterinarian will help clarify the diagnosis.
Why It's Better to Consult a Veterinarian
A visit to the vet will help identify the true cause of your Yorkshire Terrier's problems. Often, it is not obvious at all. While you are trying to change the dog's diet, thinking it's a food allergy issue, the dog's hormonal status problems or parasite infestation may worsen. It's difficult for a non-professional to figure it out.
For example, there are many skin parasites that are indistinguishable to the naked eye. Only a vet can determine their presence. Diseases are always better treated at an early stage rather than in an advanced stage. That's why it's better to consult a vet.
