Accommodating Changes in Your Older Yorkie
As your Yorkshire terrier ages, keep alert for any changes. Sudden grumpiness when touched might indicate arthritis, and barking at people coming up from behind might be a sign of hearing loss. You can adjust some of your interactions and your home environment to help keep your Yorkie happy and comfortable. Some suggestions include:
Provide soft bedding, and consider a heated bed for arthritic dogs
Pet and massage more gently, avoiding painful areas
Provide steps or a ramp, if needed, to reach previously accessible areas
Keep walks shorter and games gentler, but do continue exercise
Provide plenty of fresh water, and increased opportunities to eliminate
Keep up grooming, and be sure to check for any changes in skin or coat
Allow the dog to sleep more, but still include him in family activities
Spayed females may face an increased chance of becoming incontinent as they age. Your veterinarian may recommend a drug to help counteract this. Remember that this is not a housetraining lapse. In fact, it often happens when the dog is asleep.
