Yorkies pack a lot of personality into a tiny frame. They're affectionate, alert, and long-lived — but the small size brings concentrated risks. Dental disease is the dominant ongoing cost, and a few catastrophic categories (tracheal collapse, severe patellar luxation) deserve planning.
Common Yorkshire Terrier health issues
| Condition | How common | Typical treatment cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Dental disease | Very common — Yorkies are especially prone | Moderate per cleaning, recurring; biggest ongoing cost |
| Patellar luxation | Common in toy breeds | Moderate per knee if surgery required |
| Tracheal collapse | Notable in the breed | Lifelong management possible; severe cases need surgery |
| Hypoglycemia (puppies especially) | Common in toy breeds | Low ongoing management with awareness |
| Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt) | Higher than average in the breed | Surgical correction is significant; medical management ongoing |
| Eye conditions (cataracts, retinal dysplasia) | Notable | Diagnostic to surgical, varies |
| Fragility (jumping injuries) | Lifestyle risk — small dogs jump off couches | Variable — broken legs not uncommon |
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Our Recommendation
For a Yorkshire Terrier, comprehensive coverage with a wellness add-on makes more sense than for most breeds because routine dental cleanings are the dominant ongoing cost — and wellness modules cover them. Combine with a comprehensive plan for the catastrophic categories (tracheal collapse, liver shunt, severe injuries).
Frequently asked questions
Why do Yorkies have so much dental disease?
Small breeds in general have crowded teeth that trap food and plaque. Yorkies are particularly prone. Daily home brushing and regular professional cleanings dramatically reduce the lifetime cost.
Is tracheal collapse covered by insurance?
Yes, by comprehensive Canadian policies, provided the condition wasn't pre-existing. Treatment ranges from lifestyle management (harness instead of collar, weight control, cough suppressants) to surgical intervention in severe cases.
Are Yorkies expensive to insure?
Premiums are typically in the lower range — small breed pricing. Comprehensive plans with wellness add-ons cost more monthly but cover the routine dental that dominates the breed's ongoing cost.
How long do Yorkies live?
Long — typically 13–16 years. That makes early insurance enrollment even more valuable, as the policy has many years to deliver.