One of the most wonderful things about Yorkshire Terriers is their long lifespan. As Yorkies age, their needs change, and knowing what to expect helps you give your senior Yorkie the comfortable golden years they deserve. See our guide on how long Teacup Yorkies live for context on what to expect at each life stage.

When is a Yorkie senior?

When Does a Yorkie Become a Senior Dog?

Yorkshire Terriers are generally considered senior dogs at around 8 to 10 years of age. Because small dogs live longer than large breeds, their aging process is also slower. Many Yorkies remain active and energetic well into their senior years. You may notice gradual changes in energy level and sleep patterns starting around age 8 — see our guide on how much Teacup Yorkies sleep to understand normal changes.

What changes

How to Adjust Care for a Senior Yorkie

Switch your senior Yorkie to a high-quality small breed senior formula food that is lower in calories to prevent weight gain — read our guide on what to feed a Teacup Yorkie for age-appropriate options. Shorten walks but maintain daily exercise — see our exercise guide. Schedule vet visits twice a year instead of annually. Be extra vigilant about dental care as dental disease progresses more rapidly in older dogs.

LA resources

Excellent Senior Dog Care in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the country for senior dog care. The city has numerous veterinary specialists experienced with aging small breeds. Many LA vets now offer senior wellness panels that screen for the most common age-related health issues in Yorkies. The mild LA climate also makes outdoor time comfortable for senior dogs year-round — one of many reasons highlighted in our post on why Yorkies are the perfect dog for Los Angeles.