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Why are my Yorkie puppies born with water heads or anasarca condition?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | 1 year and 10 months old

I just want to hear why my yorkies' puppies all 3 are born with water heads. The vet say that i must not use the same male to mate again. Can you please assist with what cause this condition.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 11th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry that all of Casey's puppies were born abnormally! A "water baby"(also known as anasarca) is a congenital defect in which puppies are severely deformed due to extreme water retention . It is seen in the Yorkie breed. Sadly no one knows why this occurs. We think it is congenital but unclear if it is inherited. Some breeders think it is environmental from feeding a high sodium diet causing the mother to retain fluids, but there is no proof of this. Since it is considered congenital I agree that if you plan to breed Casey again you should choose a different male to hopefully prevent water puppies again. I'm sorry that is no straight forward answer here. I wish you the best!

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