Latest news with #YorkshireTerriers
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
The Yorkie is at risk of EXTINCTION: Yorkshire Terriers – once loved by celebrities like Audrey Hepburn – have declined in popularity by 80% since 2013 as Brits shun the traditional pup for more 'fashionable' breeds
They're the small and scrappy mutts that make the perfect pint–sized companion. But Yorkshire Terriers could be at risk of extinction thanks to a huge decline in popularity, vets have warned. The breed – once loved by celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn and Simon Cowell – have seen their registration numbers drop by 80 per cent since 2013. And experts say it's because owners are shunning the traditional pooch for more 'fashionable' dogs. Fondly known as the 'Yorkie', the breed dates back to the mid–1800s when Scottish labourers travelling to work in the mines and cotton mills of Yorkshire brought their terriers with them. Despite its working class origins it soon became popular with ladies as a house pet and lap dog. They are so pampered that today, it is the only breed which is exhibited on a decorative box in the show ring at Crufts. While once highly sought–after, Kennel Club registrations indicate that the pedigree subset of the breed is in significant decline, dropping sharply from 0.93 per cent of all registrations in 2013 to just 0.18 per cent of all registrations in 2022. This means the pedigree Yorkie may soon be classified as a 'vulnerable breed' that is close to extinction, experts from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London said. The 'purebred' Yorkshire Terrier is defined as not weighing more than 3.2kg. Meanwhile the wider population of Yorkies are a 'very different type of dog' with a much larger body size, averaging around 5kg. The overall levels of ownership for the non–pedigree Yorkies are much higher – around 2.15 per cent – but they have also experienced a drop in popularity in recent decades. Experts are now urging the British public to 'reembrace the pet Yorkie' as analysis shows they are largely healthy dogs who live relatively long lives. Data collected from more than 28,000 Yorkshire Terriers reveals they have an average lifespan of 13.56 years – substantially longer than the 12–year average for dogs overall. However, the breed is especially prone to dental disease, with owners encouraged to be vigilant about their dogs' oral hygiene. Dr Dan O'Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said: 'This new study provides good news that the general pet population of Yorkshire Terriers are robust dogs with long lives, whose welfare can benefit further from extra attention to good dental hygiene. 'Perhaps it is time for us all to reembrace the pet Yorkie as a good choice of breed to acquire.' Dr Alison Skipper, Veterinary and Research Advisor at the Kennel Club, added: 'This new study confirms that "Yorkies" are a good choice for someone wanting a healthy pet with low levels of breed–related disease.' One firm fan of the breed was British actress Audrey Hepburn, whose Yorkshire Terrier, Mr Famous, travelled with her to be on location for films. Britain's Got Talent judge Simon Cowell, meanwhile, has previously shown off his Yorkshire Terriers Squiddly and Diddly. According to The Kennel Club, Yorkshire Terriers are suitable for people who live in a flat or apartment and only require up to 30 minute of exercise per day. However, they have long coats and need to be groomed daily. The findings were published in the journal Companion Animal Health and Genetics. A genetic analysis of the world's oldest known dog remains revealed that dogs were domesticated in a single event by humans living in Eurasia, around 20,000 to 40,000 years ago. Dr Krishna Veeramah, an assistant professor in evolution at Stony Brook University, told the Daily Mail: 'The process of dog domestication would have been a very complex process, involving a number of generations where signature dog traits evolved gradually. 'The current hypothesis is that the domestication of dogs likely arose passively, with a population of wolves somewhere in the world living on the outskirts of hunter-gatherer camps feeding off refuse created by the humans. 'Those wolves that were tamer and less aggressive would have been more successful at this, and while the humans did not initially gain any kind of benefit from this process, over time they would have developed some kind of symbiotic [mutually beneficial] relationship with these animals, eventually evolving into the dogs we see today.'
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Vet explains one sign that your dog could be seriously unwell
It's never pleasant when your pet gets sick - fortunately, a vet has shared some key ways to recognise and treat diarrhoea in dogs so your fluffy pal can get better in no time It can be difficult to decipher when your furry pals are feeling unwell – now a vet has shared key signs to look out for that your dog is suffering from diarrhoea. According to a recent study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in the UK, which examined vet records from millions of dogs nationwide, one in every 12 dogs in the UK is diagnosed with diarrhoea-related issues each year, while certain breeds are more likely to experience episodes of 'the runs' than others. Based on the findings, the six breeds most prone to diarrhoea are Maltese, Miniature Poodles, Cavapoos, German Shepherds, Yorkshire Terriers and Cockapoos. However, Sean McCormack, head vet at has advised that while genetic predisposition can increase a dog's likelihood of developing digestive issues, there are other contributing factors. These include diet, food allergies, parasites, worms or gastrointestinal inflammation. Though it can be concerning if your pet develops these issues, it's important to remember that most cases of acute diarrhoea are mild, highly treatable, and don't require a follow-up vet visit. However, if loose stools become a recurring problem, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests to uncover any underlying causes. Sean says that, generally speaking, diarrhoea is not considered an emergency, especially if your dog is otherwise acting normally. But if the condition lasts beyond 24 to 48 hours, or if it appears intermittently over time, it's a good idea to contact your vet for guidance Potential causes of diarrhoea in dogs include genetic predispositions, stress, ingesting foreign objects and even switching to a different brand of dog food. To work out what's causing the tummy upset, you can conduct different diagnostic tests. These include faecal exams, which can detect parasites, and blood work, which can help identify issues such as kidney or liver disease, infection, and assess your dog's hydration and electrolyte status. You can also use X-rays, which can detect of foreign objects or abnormalities within the digestive tract, or, if an allergy is suspected, food elimination trials to pinpoint the ingredient causing the problem. In terms of treating diarrhoea, if dog has a predisposition to digestive issues, your vet may recommend switching to a diet that is easily digestible. While these specialised veterinary diets can sometimes be pricier, they can significantly help in managing symptoms and promoting gut health for your pet. Your vet may also advise briefly withholding food (generally for 12–24 hours), which can allow for the gastrointestinal tract to settle. However, this approach is generally avoided in puppies, senior dogs, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, as may not be able to handle fasting as well. In the case of a bacterial infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics. Although, it's crucial important that antibiotics are only used when necessary as they can also disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria. Equally, probiotics may be recommended to restore beneficial gut bacteria. These can be found in fortified dog foods or provided by your vet in paste form. Some of the best ways to prevent diarrhoea include keeping vaccinations up to date, stay on top of parasite treatments, avoiding feeding your dog leftovers and removing swallowable hazards.
USA Today
10-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Rub a dub dub, put your pup in the tub! How to make shampoo for your dog: Video tutorial
Rub a dub dub, put your pup in the tub! How to make shampoo for your dog: Video tutorial Show Caption Hide Caption Natural dog shampoo you can DIY at home Create your own DIY dog shampoo using natural ingredients you already have at home. Problem Solved In between sleeping, eating and playing with toys, dogs get messy. If your precious pup decides to treat itself to a spa day and take an unauthorized dip in a mud bath, they'll need a regular bath to freshen their sake and yours! If you're out of your usual shampoo, it's easy to make some with ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it's a more cost-friendly alternative with fewer chemicals! So, grab your dirty pet, a clean towel and get ready to rub a dub dub, your pup in a tub! Watch this video for two easy DIY recipes for dog shampoo. How often does my dog need a bath The simplest answer is: your dog needs a bath when it's dirty or smells. However, some dogs need baths more regularly than others, depending on the type of fur they have. A good baseline is to bathe your pet at least once every three months. According to BeChewy: Soft coat and drop-coated breeds, like Poodles, Bichons, Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus, need frequent bathing. Thick and double-coated breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Huskies, need a bath anywhere from every 6 weeks to 3 months. If you're unsure of your pet's bathing needs, ask your veterinarian what they recommend. Shop top-rated related products: Dog shampoo Any time you're using a new product on your pet, homemade or store-bought, it's always a good idea to start with a patch test somewhere on them to make sure they don't react. Like humans, dogs can have allergies, too! Check that the ingredients are safe for your pet when you're making your own dog shampoo. Avoid soaps with heavy dyes or fragrances, though some essential oils, like lavender, are ok. To make a basic shampoo: Combine 2 cups of filtered or distilled water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Gently mix to dissolve the baking soda. Add 4 tablespoons castile soap. Add a squirt of aloe vera gel for extra moisture (optional). Shake to combine, and it's ready for bath time! Oats are great for dogs with itchy skin. To make an oat-based shampoo: Blend whole oats into a powder. Combine with warm water. Add 100% shea butter or 100% raw coconut oil for moisture. Optionally, it may need to be melted down for a couple of seconds before mixing you can opt not to add any shea butter or coconut oil and add a dash of apple cider vinegar instead. If you're making shampoo with shea butter and coconut oil, it is better to make it in small batches as they solidify. How to give your dog a bath at home The proper way to bathe your dog varies depending on the size and temperament of your pup. Smaller dogs can be bathed in a kitchen sink, while large dogs may need to use a bathtub or walk-in shower. You may even be able to find a self-service dog washing station in your area with facilities that make it easier to bathe your dog, regardless of size. Give your pup a pre-bath brush to get out any mats and tangles. Once they're in the sink or tub, secure your dog to keep them safely in place. You can use a leash or a grooming loop and secure it to your faucet or something sturdy nearby. Be mindful of where and how you're securing larger dogs to prevent any plumbing mishaps. Wet your dog with lukewarm water and then begin shampooing, working it into a lather. Depending on the size of your dog and the type of fur it has, working in sections might be the easiest approach. Wet and lather their head last, since it's often their least favorite part of the bathing process. Repeat this as needed. Finish off the bath with a very good rinse to ensure all of the shampoo and any other product you used have washed out of their fur. Dry your pup off with a towel or hairdryer (if they let you!) and then give them lots and lots of praise and treats for being such a good boy or girl.
Jordan Times
09-03-2025
- Health
- Jordan Times
Caring for pets with special needs
By Dr Silvia Zayadin, Veterinarian Birth defects in pets — abnormalities that occur either at birth or during developmental stages — can significantly affect the quality of life and well-being of our furry companions. These conditions often require dedicated care and management from both pet owners and veterinary professionals. Defects can impact various parts of the body or organ systems, leading to unique challenges in the pet's daily life and routine. Causes Most of the causes are unknown. In certain cases, abnormalities in the mother's metabolism, trauma or infections and exposure to chemicals or drugs during pregnancy can lead to such defects. There are known breeds to have higher chances of certain defects and others are genetic mutations and are inherited problems. It is recommended that newborn pets be examined by a veterinarian shortly after birth to evaluate them for birth defects that may not be visible or known to the owner. The veterinarian can also discuss treatment options if there are abnormalities noted. Common birth defects in pets Some birth defects are easy to spot by pet owners or veterinarians because they affect the outside of the body. However, others may not be noticed until a closer examination or specific tests are done. Here are some of the most common birth defects we see at our practice: Umbilical and Inguinal Hernias Hernias happen when there's a weakness in the muscle wall, causing internal tissue to push through and form a bulge. They can vary in severity depending on what's protruding and where the hernia is located. Umbilical hernias appear near the belly button, while inguinal hernias are found in the groin area. Certain dog breeds, like Pekingese, are more prone to these issues. Hernias are a condition that typically requires surgery to repair and fix the defect. Cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) This is a condition in male animals where one or both testicles fail to drop into their usual position in the scrotum and stay in the abdomen or groin area instead. This condition can increase the risk of testicular cancer and other health issues, so it's often recommended to remove the undescended testicles surgically. Cryptorchidism is more common in smaller breeds, like Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles and Persian cats. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, causing the head of the femur to be misaligned in its socket. This leads to abnormal friction between the bone and cartilage, resulting in arthritis and mobility issues. In severe cases, it can significantly affect the pet's quality of life. Large-breed dogs, like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers, are more prone to hip dysplasia, while it's considered rare in cats. Treatment typically involves surgery, such as corrective procedures or a total hip replacement. For less severe cases, a more conservative approach may include lifestyle adjustments, joint supplements, and physiotherapy. Hydrocephalus: understanding 'water on the brain' Hydrocephalus is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid builds up abnormally in the brain, causing dangerously high pressure. This can lead to neurological symptoms like poor coordination, seizures, head tilting, and changes in behavior. Small-breed dogs, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, are particularly prone to this condition. In some cases, hydrocephalus can be managed with medication, but more severe cases may require surgery to place shunts that drain the excess fluid and regulate brain pressure. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing the condition and improving your pet's quality of life. Limb deformities Abnormal limb conditions, such as extra toes, twisted or shortened legs or congenital limb malformations, can affect your pet's ability to move and lead to secondary issues like joint pain. Treatment options depend on the type of deformity and can range from medications and surgical corrections to physical rehabilitation. Heart defects Congenital heart defects, such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) or ventricular septal defect (VSD), cause abnormal blood flow, leading to symptoms like weakness, exercise intolerance, and heart murmurs. In severe cases, these conditions can be life-threatening. Certain breeds, like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Persian cats, are more prone to heart defects. Treatment options include medications, dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and in severe cases, surgical correction. While congenital limb and heart defects in pets can pose challenges, with the right care, management and timely interventions, many pets can live full, happy lives. Early detection and tailored treatments are key to ensuring their well-being and maintaining their quality of life. Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine
