In this retrospective study thirteen Yorkshire terriers with histopathologically confirmed necrotizing encephalitiswere studied. All the dogs had progressive neurologic symptoms compatible with a cerebral or a brainstem disease.The blood work revealed increased creatinine kinase (CK) levels in most cases. The cerebrospinal fluid analysis wascharacterized by elevated protein concentrations and mononuclear pleocytosis. Computed tomography (CT) scansrevealed hypodense areas, ventriculomegaly and contrast enhancement. All thirteen Yorkshire terriers were euthanizeddue to the progressive course of this brain disease and the lack of an effective treatment.