Is My Yorkie Overweight? Check These 3 Signs

We all adore our tiny, furry friends, but sometimes, even our beloved Yorkies can pack on a few extra pounds. If you’re asking yourself a question ‘’Is my Yorkie overweight?’’, then it’s the ultimate time to read the following lines.

Why It’s Important to Keep Your Yorkie’s Weight in Check

Before we get into the signs of an overweight Yorkie let’s talk about why keeping your little one healthy is so important. Yorkies like other small breeds are prone to certain health issues that can be made worse by being overweight. These include joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and a shorter life span. Keeping your Yorkie healthy will mean they’ll be happy, active and by your side for many years to come.

Sign 1: Check Their Rib Cage

One of the simplest ways to check if your Yorkie is overweight is to check their rib cage. Here’s how:

1. Feel for the Ribs: Run your fingers along your Yorkie’s sides. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard. If you can’t feel the ribs or you have to press firmly to find them, it’s a sign your Yorkie might be overweight.
2. Visual Inspection: Look at your Yorkie from above. They should have a visible waistline behind the ribs. If their waistline is absent or they look more sausage-shaped, your Yorkie is carrying extra weight.

Why This Matters

A fat Yorkie with fat over their ribs will put more strain on their joints and heart. This simple rib check can be an early warning sign to take action before problems arise.

Sign 2: Observe Their Activity Levels

Yorkies are known for being energetic and playful. If you notice a decrease in your Yorkie’s activity levels it might be because they’re carrying too much weight. Here’s what to look for:

1. Lethargy: If your Yorkie is more tired than usual or seems to have lost interest in playtime, it could be a sign of weight gain. Obese Yorkies get tired quickly and might avoid physical activities they used to love.
2. Difficulty in Movement: Watch your Yorkie move. If they struggle to jump onto the couch, climb the stairs or have a noticeable waddle when they walk these can be signs of an overweight Yorkie.

Why This Matters

Less activity means not just weight issues but also a cycle where less exercise equals more weight gain. Keep your Yorkie active.

Sign 3: Monitor Eating Habits and Treats

Yorkies love treats and it’s easy to over treat them. However, monitoring their eating habits is key to preventing weight gain. Here’s how to manage their diet:

1. Portion Control: Make sure you’re feeding your Yorkie the right amount of food for their age, size, and activity level. Overfeeding is a common cause of weight gain.
2. Healthy Treats: Choose low-calorie treats and don’t give too many human foods. It’s tempting to share your snacks, but it can add up to extra pounds for your Yorkie. Read our blog post on ”What Food To Avoid Feeding Your Yorkie” to keep your dog safe from digestive issues.
3. Regular Meal Times: Stick to a regular feeding schedule instead of free feeding. This will control calorie intake and keep a healthy eating routine.

Why This Matters

An overweight Yorkie is the result of bad dietary habits. By paying attention to what and how much they eat, you can prevent weight gain and keep them healthy.

Is Your Yorkie Overweight? Tips to Help Your Yorkie Stay Fit

Now that we’ve covered the signs of a Yorkie being overweight, let’s get to the practical tips to keep your fur baby in shape:

Regular Exercise

Just like us, Yorkies need regular exercise to stay fit. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity a day which can be walks, playtime or even agility training. Regular exercise burns off excess calories and keeps their muscles and joints healthy. If you need to take your Yorkie outside on a hot day, make sure you choose the coolest part of the day. We recommend you go for strolls early in the morning and late in the evening. Since Yorkies are prone to heat stroke, this is important to consider.

Balanced Diet

Feed your Yorkie a balanced diet that’s suitable for their age and size. Consult your vet for recommendations on high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs without adding extra pounds. Commercial dog food is often high in calories so in some cases switching a Yorkie to a raw diet may seem like the best option. Ras diet allows you to

Limit Treats

Treats are great rewards for your Yorkie but should be given in moderation. Overindulging in treats can quickly turn your Yorkie into an overweight or even obese Yorkie. Here are some tips to help you manage your Yorkie’s treat intake without sacrificing the fun:

1. Healthy, Low-Calorie Options: Choose treats for small breeds and low in calories. These treats will give your Yorkie the satisfaction they crave without adding extra weight.
2. Fresh Fruits and Veggies: Fresh fruits and vegetables are great treats for your Yorkie. Not only are they low in calories but also packed with nutrients. Try offering small pieces of apples (without seeds), carrots, blueberries or green beans. These natural treats are a healthier alternative to processed snacks and can be very satisfying for your fur baby.
3. Portion Control: Even with healthy treats, portion control is key. Break treats into smaller pieces so you’re not overfeeding. This way your Yorkie feels rewarded without consuming too many calories.
4. Treats during Training: Use treats during training sessions. This limits the number of treats given at random times and reinforces good behavior. Reduce their regular meal portions if you’re giving extra treats during training.
5. Homemade Treats: If you cook, make homemade treats. You can control the ingredients and make sure they’re healthy and low-calorie. There are plenty of recipes out there that use wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter (without xylitol), and pumpkin.
6. No High-Calorie Human Food: It’s tempting to share your snacks with your Yorkie but many human foods are high in calories and not good for dogs. Chocolate, grapes and anything with artificial sweeteners are a big no-no.

Vet Visits

Vet visits are crucial to monitor your Yorkie’s weight and overall health. Your vet can advise on diet, exercise, and any weight-related health issues.

Interactive Toys

Investing in interactive toys is one of the best ways to get your Yorkie to move and stay active. Not only do these toys keep them entertained but they also prevent your Yorkie from getting overweight. Here are some of the best interactive toys to keep your furry friend engaged and active:

1. Puzzle Toys: Puzzle toys are great for both mind and body. They challenge your dog to think and work for their treats, providing mental and physical exercise. Puzzle toys prevent boredom which often leads to overeating and weight gain.
2. Fetch Toys: Yorkies love to play fetch. Invest in durable fetch toys that your small dog can carry. Regular fetch games burn off excess energy and calories and help maintain a healthy weight
3. Treat-Dispensing Toys: Toys that dispense treats are a brilliant way to keep your Yorkie engaged while also controlling their treat intake. These toys make your dog work for their rewards, ensuring they get some exercise in the process. A great example is the Slow Feeder Yorkie Toy. This toy slows down their eating pace, which can help manage their weight and prevent overeating.

4. Gum Relief Toys: For Yorkies that love to chew, Gum Relief Yorkie Toy is an excellent choice. These toys not only satisfy their chewing instincts but also help keep their teeth clean and gums healthy. Chewing can be a good form of exercise, helping to keep them active and less likely to become a fat Yorkie.

4. Interactive Yorkie Toys: Check out the wide range of Yorkie Toys available. From squeaky toys to tug toys, there are plenty of options that can keep your Yorkie entertained and moving. Regular play with these toys helps burn off excess energy and calories, preventing your Yorkie from becoming overweight.

Is My Yorkie Overweight? Conclusion

You must keep an eye on your Yorkie’s weight for their health and happiness. Check their rib cage, observe their activity levels, and monitor their eating habits and they’ll be in top shape. A healthy Yorkie is a happy Yorkie!

So go ahead and take these tips to heart and help your little one live their best life. If you have any concerns about your Yorkie’s weight or health, contact your vet for advice.

Got any tips or tricks for keeping your Yorkie fit? Comment below. Let’s keep our fur babies healthy and happy! An obese Yorkie can lead to many health issues but with proper care and attention, you can prevent your Yorkie from getting overweight. It’s all about balance and keeping an eye on those key signs. A little goes a long way in keeping your Yorkie a lively and loving companion for years to come.