Yorkies age

Question
I have a 3 1/2 Yorkshire terrier (Rocky) who is my baby since I have no children.  He is 10 1/2 and even though he is in good health, I dread the inevitable day that he passes away.  What do you think this type of dog's average lifespan is?  He is an indoor pet and an only child :-)

Answer
Hi,
Yorkies can live for a very long time. Usually well into their teens. A lot depends on genetics and dog food. Make sure you are feeding a premium dog food (not from the grocery store or wal mart or your vet) check into some dog food comparison charts online. Learn to read labels. Also have your pet checked by a vet yearly to make sure that everything is going great. A well pet visit and a physical can catch problems early while they can be treated. Have babies teeth cleaned and checked yearly as well, anal glands cleaned every time he's groomed. At his age, he needs to be on a senior diet, keep his weight down, and exercise daily. Keep him interested in life and watch him for changes. Hopefully he will be with you for a long time yet. I also strongly suggest getting a new companion for both yourself and your baby. A younger dog, pup or even a kitten can renew a dog's lease on life and give them something to keep them interested, help them exercise etc. It'll also make it easier for you when, sometime in the FAR future your baby does leave you to travel across the bridge. Getting another dog now will also insure that some of babies' habits and characteristics are picked up by the younger one. Just make sure it is an animal that will get along well with your baby.
hugs to you both
Diane