[Marc]

Originally Posted by Woogie Man

In your hypothetical scenario, it should matter to you. A 'breeder' as opposed to an 'owner with pups' should know more about the health and quality of the pups. This 'should' give you more confidence but there are 'knowledgeable' breeders that just don't care so you're back at square one. The Yorkie world is full of contradictions and every buyer should be as informed as possible prior to shopping for one. Pedigree, show or pet quality or any other determining factor all fall to the wayside if you purchase an unhealthy puppy. Price alone is no factor as some unethical breeders will jack up the price of their pups to make you think you're getting a 'quality' pup. Also, some will tell you what they think you want to hear in order to 'make a sale'. There are many members here who, though they love their babies to death, have bought a pup that was completely mis-represented to them. As in all things, buyer beware.

I have to say that I think the notion that Yorkies that don't come from a breeder are right aways unhealthy. That comment doesn't fly with me at all. A pup from a breeder who ends up as a pet is just as at risk of health issues than a responsible owner who has pet pups.