Yorkies are small, loyal, and playful dogs that require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best. Grooming your Yorkie isn’t as complicated as it may seem and doesn’t take a lot of time. With regular brushing and bathing, you can keep your Yorkie looking and feeling their best. Here are some tips to help you groom your Yorkie like a pro.
Brushing
Brushing your Yorkie is key to keeping their fur clean and healthy. Yorkies have a long, silky coat that needs to be brushed regularly to keep it free of tangles and mats. Start by brushing the coat in the same direction of the fur growth. Be sure to brush the fur all the way down to the skin, which will help with the distribution of natural oils and remove any dirt or debris. Brushing your Yorkie weekly is recommended.
Bathing
Bathing your Yorkie is important to keep their skin and coat healthy. You should bathe your Yorkie every four to six weeks to keep them looking and smelling their best. When bathing, use a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs and make sure to rinse your Yorkie thoroughly. After bathing, use a towel to dry your Yorkie as best as possible and then use a hairdryer on a low setting to finish the job. Be sure to brush your Yorkie’s fur while it is still damp. This will help to prevent any mats or tangles from forming.
Nails
Keeping your Yorkie’s nails trim is important for their health and comfort. If their nails are allowed to grow too long, it can cause discomfort and even make it difficult for them to walk. Trimming your Yorkie’s nails should be done every four weeks. You can use a nail clipper designed specifically for dogs or have your vet or groomer do it for you. Be sure to only cut the tips of the nails and avoid the quick, which is the pinkish area in the middle of the nail that contains a nerve and blood supply.
Ears
Yorkies are prone to ear infections and wax build-up, so it’s important to keep their ears clean. You should check and clean your Yorkie’s ears every few weeks. Use a cotton ball and a gentle ear cleaner specifically formulated for dogs. Gently wipe the inside of the ear and do not insert anything into the ear canal. If your Yorkie’s ears appear red or swollen, or if they seem to be in pain, contact your vet right away.
Teeth
Just like humans, Yorkies need to have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent tartar and plaque build-up. You should brush your Yorkie’s teeth at least 2-3 times a week with a toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Make sure to use a brush that is designed for small breeds and be gentle as you brush. If your Yorkie isn’t comfortable with you brushing their teeth, talk to your vet about other options for dental care.
Haircuts
Yorkies do not require frequent haircuts, but they do need to be trimmed regularly. Yorkies have a long coat that can easily become matted if it is not kept trimmed. It’s best to take your Yorkie to a professional groomer every three months to get their coat trimmed and shaped. This will help to keep your Yorkie looking their best and make it easier to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Eye Care
Yorkies have big eyes that need special care to keep them healthy. You should wipe your Yorkie’s eyes every few days with a damp, soft cloth. This will help to keep the area clean and free of debris. If you notice any discharge or redness, contact your vet immediately as this could be a sign of an infection.
Grooming Tools
Having the right tools for grooming your Yorkie is important. You will need a pin brush, slicker brush, comb, nail clippers, ear cleaner, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a shampoo specifically designed for dogs. You may also want to invest in a hairdryer designed for dogs, which can be helpful for drying your Yorkie after a bath.
Conclusion
Grooming your Yorkie can be a fun bonding experience for both of you. With regular brushing, bathing, trimming, and cleaning, you can keep your Yorkie looking and feeling their best. By following these tips, you will be able to groom your Yorkie like a pro!
