LoveToKnow Dogs:AllComments

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Hi Deborah, and welcome to the site.

Although some small breeds are prone to health problems (just like larger breeds), a lot depends on the integrity of the breeders running their programs. A conscientious breeder will not use a less than healthy animal in a breeding program, and will take a dog out of that program if it produces puppies with these kind of defects.

I do want to call attention to one thing you mentioned in regards to a "teacup" Yorkie. Technically, there's no such thing, although you'll see the "teacup" prefix used on other small breeds. This usually indicates the dog was bred to be smaller than the breed standard, and it's very common for these extra small dogs to have multiple health problems from being bred to be smaller than they were ever meant to be. Most puppy buyers are not made aware of this fact by the breeders selling the pups. Reputable breeders do not purposely breed for teacups.

As for the hydrocephalus, I'm not sure that it is curable. I have only heard of the condition growing worse as the dog gets older, but your vet should be able to provide expert info on the condition. However, I do hope your pet will be alright.

Thanks for sharing your situation, and best wishes.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

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I am the owner of a teacup yorkie mos. Why is it that these small dogs are pronet to getting hydrocephalus, liver shunt? Should a breeding be aware of the breeds they are breeding? Why smalls breeds are known to have seizures. Should the breeding of such small animals stop? My yorkie have a mild case of hydrocephalus she is on predesone now every 3 days as well as keppra 3 times a day? Will the ever go away?

-- Contributed by: Deborah chapman

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Hi Steve, good question.

It's my understanding that the Boykin is currently part of AKC's Foundation Stock Service program. This means that they are in the process of achieving recognition and are eligible for competition in the miscellaneous class. From there, it is only a matter of time and growing registrations before the Boykin achieves official breed status with AKC.

For more info on the process, check out our article on Rare Dog Breeds. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

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Why is the boykin spaniel not an AKC breed?

-- Contributed by: Steve

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I have an Airedale Terrier and I want to breed her. My concern is I hear that a female can get pregnant by other dogs beside the one I want to be the father. Is this true? I am keeping her with me at all times to be sure nothing like this happens.

• Hi Ellen,

Yes, this is very possible so continue to be vigilent. A bitch sends down multiple eggs diring her fertile period, so if more than one stud mates with her, it all depends on which dog's sperm fertilizes a particular egg. This can result in one litter with multiple sires, and it takes DNA testing to unravel who is who.

Best of luck with the breeding.

-- Contributed by: Ellen
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