Yorkshire Terriers often live into their teens. As they age, their needs change: diet, exercise, grooming, and vet care should be adjusted to keep them comfortable and healthy. This guide covers when a Yorkie is considered senior, common health issues, and practical care tips—including diet, grooming, and comfort at home.
Last updated: February 2026 · Reading time: ~8 min
Quick Answer
Yorkies are generally considered senior around 8–10 years. Senior care includes: diet—switch to a senior formula or lower-calorie food if the vet recommends; exercise—shorter, gentler walks and less jumping; grooming—regular brushing and nails; vet care—checkups every 6–12 months and bloodwork as advised; comfort—soft bedding, ramps if needed, and a warm, draft-free spot. Watch for arthritis, dental disease, and confusion; see the vet if you notice changes.
When Is a Yorkie a Senior?
Most vets and owners treat Yorkies as senior around 8–10 years. Small breeds often age a bit later than large dogs. Your vet can say when to start senior diets and more frequent checkups based on your dog’s condition. For lifespan context, many Yorkies live 12–15 years or longer.
Common Health Issues in Senior Yorkies
| Issue | Signs | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Arthritis / joint pain | Stiffness, limping, reluctance to jump or climb | Vet for pain management; comfortable bed, ramps, gentle exercise. |
| Dental disease | Bad breath, difficulty chewing, pawing at mouth | Brush teeth; vet cleanings and extractions as needed. |
| Heart disease | Cough, tiredness, fainting | Vet diagnosis and treatment. |
| Kidney / liver changes | Drinking more, weight loss, appetite change | Vet bloodwork and diet advice. |
| Cognitive decline | Confusion, odd sleep schedule, pacing | Vet check; some treatments and routines can help. |
| Vision / hearing loss | Bumping into things, not responding to sounds | Keep environment consistent; vet to rule out treatable causes. |
| Tracheal issues | Coughing, especially when excited | Vet evaluation; avoid collar pressure, use harness. |
See Yorkie arthritis symptoms and dental care for more detail.
Nutrition and Diet for Senior Yorkies
Older Yorkies often need fewer calories (less activity) but still good protein to maintain muscle. Feed a senior dog food or an adult formula in smaller portions if the vet recommends weight loss. Small, frequent meals can help if appetite is variable. Ask the vet about supplements (e.g. joint, omega-3) and keep treats to under 10% of daily calories.
Grooming and Hygiene
- Coat: Brush regularly to prevent mats; seniors may need shorter clips for ease of care.
- Bathing: Use a gentle shampoo every few weeks; avoid over-bathing to prevent dry skin.
- Nails: Trim nails every 2–4 weeks so they don’t affect gait.
- Ears: Check and clean as needed to avoid infections.
- Teeth: Brush if possible; vet cleanings when recommended.
A groomer can help with clipping and nails if your senior is stiff or nervous.
Exercise and Activity
Senior Yorkies still need daily activity but at a gentler level. Short, slow walks and light play are better than long runs or jumping. Watch for fatigue or lameness and stop or shorten sessions if needed. Mental stimulation (e.g. simple toys, sniffing on walks) helps keep them engaged. If they have arthritis, the vet may suggest rest, pain relief, or physical therapy.
Veterinary Care
Senior Yorkies benefit from checkups every 6–12 months (or as your vet suggests). The vet will check weight, heart, joints, eyes, ears, and teeth and may recommend bloodwork to screen for kidney, liver, or thyroid issues. Keep up vaccinations and parasite control as advised. Report any new signs: appetite change, coughing, limping, confusion, or accidents in the house.
Comfort at Home
| Need | Tips |
|---|---|
| Bedding | Soft, supportive bed; avoid cold or drafty spots. |
| Mobility | Ramps or steps for couch/bed if they can’t jump; non-slip floors. |
| Temperature | Seniors may get cold easily; provide a warm sleeping area. |
| Water | Fresh water always available; easy access without climbing. |
| Quiet | A calm place to rest away from noise and busy traffic. |
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Sleep and Behavior
Senior Yorkies often sleep more (e.g. 14–18 hours a day). Sudden large changes in sleep, restlessness at night, or confusion can signal pain or cognitive decline—mention these to the vet. A consistent routine and a comfortable sleeping spot help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common health problems in senior Yorkies?
Common issues include arthritis, dental disease, heart disease, kidney or liver changes, tracheal collapse, and cognitive decline. Regular vet visits help catch and manage these.
How often should I take my senior Yorkie to the vet?
Many vets recommend every 6 months for seniors (or at least yearly). Bloodwork and exams help monitor organ function and weight.
Can I still give my senior Yorkie treats?
Yes, in moderation. Use small, healthy treats and keep total treat calories under about 10% of daily intake. Avoid hard chews if they have dental issues.
When does a Yorkie become a senior?
Typically around 8–10 years. Your vet can tailor this to your dog’s health and breed size.
For lifespan and life stages, see how long do Yorkies live.
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