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Originally Posted by MyFairLacy  When you buy from a reputable breeder that health screens their dogs before breeding, you lower your risk significantly of getting a dog with genetic health problems. Nothing is guaranteed because genetics are complicated, but you have a much better chance of getting a healthy dog from a reputable breeder than a byb. The breeder should be screening all breeding dogs: regular vet checkups, blood panels, bile acid tests to check for Liver shunt, possible x-rays to check for LP or other joint problems, and they should know that there are no dogs with genetic health problems anywhere in their lines. Some breeders will bile acid test puppies before sending them home to confirm that they don't have Liver shunt - whether they do or not, you should always have the puppy checked by 6 months of age before spay/neuter to make sure there isn't a shunt. Reputable breeders will also have a guarantee against hereditary defects. |
Make sure you ask to see proof that the tests MyFairLacy mentions have been done. Many breeders will tell you they have health tested the parents when all they have done is keep up with the vaccinations and had basic annual physicals.
Dr. Sharon Center is one of the leading authorities on liver disease and she recommends that all Yorkies have a bile acids test before they go to their new home. Not all breeders are routinely doing it so make sure you tell your breeder you want it done.
As far as luxating patellas, when you bring your puppy in for her first checkup, you vet can easily check her knees. Even if her knees are okay, you will have to be very careful not to let your Yorkie jump on and off furniture as that can cause luxating patellas later on.
By taking your time now to find a reputable breeder, you may save yourself big vet bills in the future.