Grooming
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and beautiful. If you leave a coat to mat and tangle it can cause skin sores and discomfort for your baby.
Here are some grooming tips specifically tailored for Yorkies:
Brushing:
Yorkies have a fine and silky coat that tends to mat and tangle easily. Brush their coat daily or every other day to prevent mats and tangles. Use a pin brush or a slicker brush designed for long-haired dogs. Start from the ends and work your way up to prevent pulling on their hair.
Bathing:
Bathe your Yorkie every 3-4 weeks but no more than once a week. Use a gentle dog shampoo formulated for long-haired breeds. Ensure the shampoo is thoroughly rinsed out to prevent skin irritation. Use a conditioner to keep the coat soft and manageable.
Trimming and Haircuts:
Regular trimming is necessary to maintain a neat appearance and prevent mats. If you're not experienced, consider taking your Yorkie to a professional groomer for trimming every 6-8 weeks. A shorter haircut might be more manageable for some owners.
Facial Hair Care:
Yorkies have long hair around their face that requires special attention. Gently comb the hair away from their eyes and use small hair clips or bands to keep the hair tied up or away from their eyes to prevent irritation.
If you prefer to do less face care, keep your pups hair trimmed short.
Ears and Eyes:
Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent wax buildup and infections. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaning solution and gently wipe the ear area with a cotton ball.
Carefully clean around their eyes to remove any tear stains using a damp cloth. Be gentle to avoid causing irritation.
Nail Care:
Trim your Yorkie's nails every 2-4 weeks to prevent overgrowth. Use pet-specific nail clippers and be cautious not to cut into the quick (the sensitive part of the nail that contains blood vessels).
Dental Hygiene:
Yorkies are prone to dental issues, so regular dental care is crucial. Brush their teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and dental problems.
Anal Gland Expression:
Some Yorkies may require their anal glands to be expressed regularly. Your vet or groomer can show you how to do this or take care of it during grooming appointments.
Professional Grooming:
Consider professional grooming sessions, especially for haircuts and specific coat care needs. Groomers can provide breed-specific grooming styles and can assist in maintaining your Yorkie's coat health.
Consistent grooming not only keeps your Yorkie looking their best but also contributes to their overall health and comfort. Regular attention to their coat, ears, eyes, nails, and dental hygiene will help keep your Yorkie happy and healthy.