What Age do Yorkies Go Blind? How To Prevent Blindness?

As the owner of a Yorkie, you certainly want only the best for their health, and one of the concerns you might have is about their vision. ‘’What age do Yorkies go blind?’’ is one of the questions we often hear from their owners.

That’s why we decided to explore everything you need to know about Yorkie eyes, including common eye problems, signs of vision loss, and how to care for your Yorkie’s eyes.

Understanding Yorkie Eyes and Common Eye Problems

Yorkies like many small breeds are prone to eye problems. These can affect their vision and overall quality of life. Here are some common eye issues in Yorkies:

• Cataracts: A cloudy lens in the eye that causes blurred vision and eventually blindness.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition where the retina degenerates over time and vision gets worse.
• Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): When the eyes don’t produce enough tears and it gets dry, irritated and can damage the cornea.
• Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve and if left untreated can cause blindness.

These can develop at any stage of a Yorkie’s life so it’s important to monitor their eye health regularly.

Solutions for Common Eye Problems in Yorkies

1. Cataracts: Surgery is the best treatment for cataracts. If you see your Yorkie’s eyes getting cloudy, consult a veterinary ophthalmologist.
2. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): There is no cure for PRA but antioxidants and a diet rich in vitamins A, C and E can slow down its progression. Genetic testing before breeding can also prevent this condition in future generations.
3. Dry Eye: Artificial tears and medication that stimulates tear production can manage dry eye. Regular eye cleaning is also important to prevent infections.
4. Glaucoma: Early diagnosis is key. Medication to reduce eye pressure and in severe cases surgery can manage glaucoma.

What Age Do Yorkies Go Blind? Do All Yorkies Go Blind?

Do all Yorkies go blind? Well, of course not! To prevent your four-legged friend from ye problems, it’s essential to spot any strange behavior on time. If your Yorkie started accidentally bumping into things in the house or he/she feels afraid to climb stairs of go downstairs, then you need to take him/her to the vet.

It’s hard to pinpoint the exact age when Yorkies go blind as it depends on the underlying cause of the vision loss. However here are some general guidelines:

• Cataracts: Yorkies can get cataracts at any age but they are more common in older dogs. Cataracts usually start to form around 7-10 years old.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic condition and signs usually show up between 3-5 years old. The progression of the disease can vary but most affected Yorkies will be blind by 6-8 years old.
• Glaucoma and Dry Eye: These can happen at any age but are more common in middle aged to older Yorkies.

Not all Yorkies will get these conditions and some will have good vision throughout their lives with proper care and regular vet check ups.

How to Delay Loss of Vision in Yorkies

1. Eye Exams: Schedule annual or bi-annual eye exams with a vet ophthalmologist to catch any early signs of eye disease.
2. Healthy Diet: Feed your Yorkie a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support eye health like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins.
3. Protective Measures: Protect your Yorkie’s eyes from environmental irritants and UV rays by using dog goggles during outdoor activities.

What Age Do Yorkies Go Blind? Signs of Blindness in Yorkies

Recognizing the signs of vision loss in Yorkies can be tough, but early detection is key. There’s no one answer to the question “what age do Yorkies go blind” as blindness can happen at any stage of life due to different underlying causes but stay vigilant for these warning signs:

1. Bumping into Objects: One of the most common signs of vision loss in Yorkies is bumping into furniture, walls, or other objects in their environment. As their vision deteriorates, they may have trouble navigating familiar spaces, especially in low light. Pay attention if your Yorkie suddenly seems more clumsy or hesitant when moving around.
2. Reluctance to Move: A Yorkie losing its vision may become more cautious or anxious often hesitating to move in unfamiliar areas, or even in places they used to know well. If your dog seems fearful or unsure when stepping off curbs, climbing stairs, or exploring this could be an early sign of declining vision.
3. Changes in Eye Appearance: Certain eye conditions that lead to blindness such as cataracts or glaucoma may cause noticeable changes in your Yorkie’s eyes. Look for signs like cloudiness, redness, or swelling. Cataracts in particular cause a milky, opaque appearance which can be a sign your Yorkie is struggling with vision loss.
4. Disorientation in New Environments: Yorkies with declining vision often become disoriented in new environments seeming confused or lost in spaces they have never been in before. They may circle excessively, freeze, or move cautiously as they can’t rely on their sight to navigate.
5. Behavioral Changes: Dogs rely heavily on their senses and a loss of vision can affect their overall behavior. Your Yorkie may become more dependent on you seeking reassurance through touch or sound. Or they may show signs of frustration or anxiety, especially in situations where they feel disoriented.
6. Pawing at the Eyes: Some Yorkies may paw at their eyes if they are experiencing discomfort or changes in vision. While this symptom can be related to various eye conditions it may also be a sign of vision problems related to aging or other health issues.
7. Difficulty Finding Toys or Food: If your Yorkie can’t find their favorite toys or even food and water bowls it could be a sign their vision is declining. This can be especially noticeable if the objects are in new locations.
8. Misjudging Distances: A Yorkie with vision loss may have trouble gauging distances. You may notice they miscalculate jumps such as when trying to hop onto the couch or bed or they may misstep when navigating stairs.

When Do Yorkies Go Blind? How to Manage Blindness

Home Adjustments: Keep your home layout consistent so your Yorkie can remember their surroundings. Don’t move furniture or key items like water and food bowls. Familiarity will give them confidence to navigate on their own.

Training: Use verbal cues and commands to guide your Yorkie. Teach them to respond to sounds so they can move around more confidently.

Safety Precautions: Block off stairs and use mats or rugs with different textures to create safe paths.

Tactile Cues: Consider using rugs, mats or different textured surfaces to create paths. These tactile cues will help your Yorkie feel safe and know where they are in the home.

Special Products for Visually Impaired Dogs

When vision is no longer reliable, tools for blind dogs can make a big difference. Here are a few must haves for your Yorkie’s daily life:

Anti-Bump Collars: These collars, also known as halo collars, have a circular ring that goes around your dog’s head. The collar acts as a buffer, preventing your Yorkie from bumping into walls, furniture or other obstacles. It gives them confidence to move around without hurting themselves.

Recommended Product: Muffin’s Halo, designed for blind dogs, is a popular anti-bump collar that lets your dog move freely without hurting themselves.

Blind Dog Leashes: A leash with a “Blind Dog” label can alert others when you’re out walking that your Yorkie may need extra space and patience. You might also want to use a retractable leash that gives them more freedom to explore safely.

Recommended Product: A reflective leash with “Blind Dog” printed on it lets others know your Yorkie’s condition during walks so it’s a smoother and safer experience.

Scented or Noisy Toys: Visually impaired Yorkies can still play with toys! Opt for toys that make noise, squeaky or crinkle toys or those with distinct scents to keep them engaged and active.

Recommended Product: Scented toys with flavors or essential oils and treat dispensing toys can keep your Yorkie entertained even if they can’t see well.

Raised Feeders: To prevent your Yorkie from spilling food or water, raised feeders can help them find their meals more easily. These feeders also provide a stationary, consistent place where they know food and water will always be.

Recommended Product: Non-slip raised dog feeder keeps things consistent and reduces confusion during mealtime.

How to Care for Yorkie Eyes?

Caring for your Yorkie’s eyes means regular care and attention. Here are some tips to keep Yorkie eyes healthy:

• Regular Vet Visits: Get your Yorkie to the vet for regular check ups to monitor their eye health and catch any issues early.
• Eye Cleaning: Gently wipe around your Yorkie’s eyes with a damp, soft cloth to remove discharge and prevent infection.
• Diet and Supplements: Feed a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3’s which support eye health. Ask your vet about supplements that can benefit your Yorkie’s eyes.
• Avoid Irritants: Keep your Yorkie away from smoke, dust and harsh chemicals that can irritate their eyes.
• Protective Measures: When outdoors use doggy goggles to protect your Yorkie’s eyes from UV rays and debris.

How Long Do Yorkies Live?

Knowing the lifespan of a Yorkie can give you an idea of when age-related issues like blindness may occur. On average how long do Yorkies live? Yorkshire Terriers have a lifespan of 12-15 years and some live even longer with proper care. Since they live a relatively long life many Yorkies will experience age-related health issues including those that affect their eyes as they get older.

How to Prolong Your Yorkie’s Life

1. Exercise: Keep your Yorkie active with daily walks and playtime to keep them healthy.
2. Healthy Diet: Feed a well-balanced diet to support their immune system and prevent obesity-related health issues.
3. Regular Check-Ups: Get your Yorkie to the vet for vaccinations, dental care and early detection of health problems.

Yorkshire Terrier Growth Chart: How Big Will Your Yorkie Grow?

A Yorkshire Terrier growth chart can help you track your Yorkie’s growth and make sure they’re growing at a healthy rate. While growth charts are all about physical size and weight, they can also be a useful tool for monitoring overall health including eye health. Here’s what to expect:

• 0-2 Months: Yorkie puppies are born with their eyes closed. They start to open their eyes around 2-3 weeks and vision improves over the next few weeks.
• 2-6 Months: Growth spurt. Keep an eye out for any signs of genetic eye problems if your Yorkie’s parents have PRA or other hereditary issues.
• 6-12 Months: Your Yorkie will be full grown by the end of this period. Keep up with regular vet checks to make sure their eyes are developing normally.
• 1-7 Years: Adult phase. Keep up eye care routine and watch for early signs of age-related problems.
• 7+ Years: Senior phase. Be more vigilant as your Yorkie is more prone to cataracts, glaucoma, and other age-related eye problems.

What to Do at Each Stage

1. Puppy Stage (0-6 Months): Make sure your puppy’s environment is safe and free of sharp objects that can harm their eyes. Start eye cleaning early.
2. Adolescent Stage (6-12 Months): Regular vet visits and a healthy diet are key. Watch for any changes in behavior that might indicate vision problems.
3. Adult Stage (1-7 Years): Keep up eye care routine and protect your Yorkie from environmental irritants.
4. Senior Stage (7+ Years): More frequent vet eye exams and be aware of any new symptoms of eye conditions.

What Age Do Yorkies Go Blind? Wrapping Up

So, at what age do Yorkies go blind? It depends on the individual dog and the underlying conditions, but being proactive about your Yorkie’s eye health can make a big difference. Regular vet checks, proper eye care, and a healthy diet are the keys to keeping your Yorkie’s vision for as long as possible. By knowing the common eye problems, recognising the signs of vision loss and how to care for Yorkie eyes you can ensure your furry friend has a happy healthy life.

Get in early. If you ever have any eye concerns about your Yorkie contact your vet. With the right care, your Yorkie can continue to enjoy the world and be by your side for many years.