Yorkshire Terrier Health Testing Requirements for Stud Dogs

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular toy breeds in the world. Their small size creates specific structural vulnerabilities that breeders must actively screen for and select against.

The Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (YTCA) participates in the OFA CHIC program.

CHIC Requirements for Yorkshire Terriers

• OFA Patella Evaluation
• OFA Eye Examination (CAER)

Patellar Luxation

Luxating patella is the most common orthopedic problem in Yorkshire Terriers. OFA Patella evaluation grades severity 0-4. Stud dogs should be Grade 0 (Normal). Grade I with disclosure is a borderline case; Grade II or higher should not be used for breeding.

Portosystemic Shunts (Liver Shunts)

Yorkshire Terriers have the highest breed prevalence of portosystemic shunts (PSS) — abnormal blood vessel connections that bypass the liver, causing toxin buildup in the bloodstream. Signs include stunted growth, neurological symptoms, and failure to thrive.

No reliable DNA test currently exists. Selecting from pedigrees with no PSS history and appropriate size (not extremely small) reduces risk. "Teacup" Yorkies — selectively bred for extreme small size — have significantly elevated PSS risk.

Tracheal Collapse

A structural weakness of the tracheal cartilage causing a chronic "honking" cough. Toy breeds are disproportionately affected. No genetic test exists; select against pedigrees with early or severe tracheal collapse.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head causing hind-leg lameness. Occurs in toy breeds including Yorkies. OFA evaluation can identify this condition.

Summary

A responsible Yorkshire Terrier stud dog should have: OFA Patella Grade 0, OFA CAER eye exam, and no personal or close family history of portosystemic shunts, tracheal collapse, or Legg-Calvé-Perthes. Patellar luxation is the most actionable health criterion available for stud dog selection in this breed.