Legg-calve Perthes:

Researchers seek genetic marker for legg-calve-perthes disease:

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, also known as Avascular Necrosis of the femoral head, affects the hip joints of several toy breeds and small terriers. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, at least 26 breeds are affected with LCPD. Researchers at Clemson University in South Carolina are

hoping to develop a genetic test to determine normal and affected dogs as well as carriers. You can learn more on www.yorkiehealthfoundation.org

There you can also find a list of the other breeds that this disease can affect.

Hemorrhagic Gastric Enteritis:

this is particularly dangerous to small breeds such as Yorkies, Poodles, etc.. Any kind of a bacterial Diarrhea can dehydrate a dog. and the tiniest of dogs are at the greatest risk of dehydration. most people want a very small yorkie around 2 lbs, but here is an example on why a dog that small is dangerous. Along with the dehydration the dog will lose weigh due to the diarrhea, A very small dog cant afford to lose any weight next thing you know they are dehydrated and need IV rehydration. Any dog is at risk to catch a bacterial diarrhea anywhere, that is why it is important to be picky on who touches your dog and who he.she is around. It can take up to 2-10 days AFTER exposure that the dog can get the bacterial bug. Keep in eye on your dog, You know your dog better than anyone, If your dog starts to vomit, stops eating, becomes lethargy than it is time to take him/her to the vet. DONT wait and think, maybe he.she just ate something while they were playing outside. Think of your dog as your child. you know you would not wait to take your child to the Dr. then why wait for the dog? Small breeds and toy breeds cant afford to lose weight due to diarrhea, it can become dangerous with their small size. So please care for your dog and take the necessary steps to make sure they are o.k.

Reverse Sneezing )pharyngeal gag reflex):

Reverse sneezing really isn't a health problem, But small breed owners should know about it. It is very common in toy breeds. It is know by honking like a duck, hacking or a snorting sound. It usually happens when a dog is excited, sometimes it occurs after the dog has drank water too fast, sometimes running around, and if you use a collar for your dog ( which I suggest a harness due to the fact that yorkies and other small dogs have very soft tracs.) The dog will extend his/her neck out and will continue with a snorting sound. Don't be alarmed and panic, you will upset the dog making it harder for him.her to get it under control. usually if you rub their neck softly this will help it stop after they have swallowed a few times, Sometimes you can plug their nose holes forcing your dog to breathe thru their mouth and that will help stop the snorting. Reverse sneezing is a very harmless condition and does not require any medical attention, But do not confuse the reverse sneezing with a collapsed trac.