Yorkshire Terriers, with their luxurious long coats and charming personalities, are often considered “hypoallergenic” dogs. But is this truly the case? Do Yorkies shed, and if so, how much? This article will delve into the shedding habits of Yorkies, debunking common myths and providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about welcoming a Yorkie into your home.
Overview: While Yorkshire Terriers are known for their fine, silky coats, they do shed. However, they shed less than many other breeds, and their shedding is often mistaken for “hair loss” due to their coat’s unique characteristics.
Understanding Yorkshire Terrier Coats
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their long, flowing coats that are typically a rich, steel blue color on the body and a rich, golden tan on the face, legs, and chest. This unique coat is actually double-layered, consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, outer coat.
The Role of the Undercoat
The undercoat of a Yorkie is made up of shorter, finer hairs that help insulate the dog and protect it from the elements. It’s this undercoat that is responsible for most of the shedding in Yorkies. However, the undercoat is much finer than the outer coat and tends to be less noticeable, making shedding less obvious to the naked eye.
The Significance of the Outer Coat
The outer coat of a Yorkie is made up of longer, silkier hairs that give the breed its signature appearance. This outer coat is also responsible for trapping loose undercoat hairs, further reducing the amount of visible shedding.
The Misconception of “Hypoallergenic”
The common misconception that Yorkies are hypoallergenic stems from the fact that they shed less than many other breeds. Their fine, silky coats produce less dander (dead skin cells) than other breeds, which is the main allergen that triggers reactions in people with allergies.
Shedding Patterns and Triggers
While Yorkies shed less than many breeds, they do shed. The amount of shedding can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
Seasonal Changes
Like many other breeds, Yorkies tend to shed more during the spring and fall, when their bodies are adjusting to changes in temperature. This is known as “blowing coat.”
Stress and Diet
Stress and poor diet can also lead to increased shedding in Yorkies. When a Yorkie is stressed, their body releases hormones that can cause hair loss. Poor nutrition can also deprive the hair follicles of the nutrients they need to stay healthy, resulting in shedding.
Managing Yorkie Shedding
While you can’t completely eliminate shedding in a Yorkie, there are a few things you can do to minimize it:
- Regular Brushing: Brushing your Yorkie’s coat regularly will help to remove loose hairs and prevent mats. Daily brushing is ideal.
- Proper Nutrition: Feeding your Yorkie a high-quality diet will provide the nutrients they need to maintain a healthy coat.
- Professional Grooming: Yorkies require regular professional grooming, including bathing, brushing, and trimming. This helps to keep the coat clean and free of mats and tangles, which can contribute to shedding.
- Consider a “Low-Shedding” Yorkie
Some Yorkies are naturally more prone to shedding than others. If you are particularly sensitive to allergens, you may want to consider adopting a Yorkie with a “low-shedding” coat. A reputable breeder can help you identify a Yorkie with this trait.
Final Thoughts
While Yorkies do shed, their fine coats and the tendency for their undercoat hairs to be trapped by the outer coat make them appear to shed less than other breeds. This is why they are often mistaken as “hypoallergenic.” However, even with their minimal shedding, individuals with severe allergies may still experience reactions.
If you are considering adopting a Yorkie, it is important to spend time with the dog before making a decision. This will help you assess your own allergy level and determine if a Yorkie is a good fit for your family. With proper care and grooming, a Yorkie can be a wonderful companion for many years to come.
FAQs
1. Do Yorkshire Terriers Shed?
Yes, Yorkshire Terriers do shed, although they are often described as hypoallergenic. The reason for this misconception is that Yorkies have a very fine, human-like hair that doesn’t readily detach from their coat like the coarser hair of other breeds. This makes them appear to shed less, but it doesn’t mean they are truly hypoallergenic. Their fur still falls out, just not as noticeably.
2. Why Are Yorkshire Terriers Considered Hypoallergenic?
Yorkies are considered hypoallergenic because they don’t shed as much as other breeds, and their fine hair is less likely to trigger allergies. However, it’s important to note that the true allergen is actually a protein found in dog saliva and dander, which is present in all dogs, even those considered hypoallergenic.
3. Do Yorkshire Terriers Have a Different Type of Hair?
Yorkshire Terriers have a unique type of hair called “human-like” hair. It is fine, silky, and grows continuously, similar to human hair. This hair type sheds less readily than the coarser hair of other dog breeds, contributing to the misconception that Yorkies are hypoallergenic.
4. Can People With Allergies Still Have a Yorkshire Terrier?
While Yorkshire Terriers are generally considered to be better for allergy sufferers than other breeds, it’s important to note that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Anyone with allergies should spend time with a Yorkie before committing to ownership to see how they react.
5. How Can I Reduce Shedding in My Yorkshire Terrier?
Regular grooming is essential for reducing shedding in a Yorkie. Brushing their coat daily helps to remove loose hair and prevents mats and tangles, which can lead to more shedding. A professional grooming session every few months will also help to maintain their coat and minimize shedding.
6. Are Yorkshire Terriers More Likely to Cause Allergies Than Other Breeds?
While Yorkshire Terriers are often marketed as hypoallergenic, they are not actually hypoallergenic and can still cause allergies. However, their fine hair and less noticeable shedding may make them a better option for some allergy sufferers compared to other breeds that shed more heavily.
7. What Should I Do If I Have Allergies and Want a Yorkie?
If you have allergies and want a Yorkie, it’s crucial to spend time with the dog before bringing it home. This will allow you to assess your reaction to the dog’s dander and saliva. If you have a mild allergy, you may find that regular grooming and other preventative measures are enough to manage your symptoms. If you have a severe allergy, a Yorkie may not be the right choice for you.