Hi everyone, I'm pretty new here, and a bit shy so I haven't put up an introduction yet (While I adore Yorkies, I don't have my own pup yet, so I lurked for a long time before joining). I came out of the closet a couple of weeks ago because I really wanted to become part of this amazing, caring community, and I hope I can contribute in some small way, as well.
I'm a graduate student saving up for my first yorkie, which I hope to get next summer. I want to be responsible and learn as much as I can about the breed and caring for my baby before I get him. To that end, I was hoping you could share insight on a ballpark amount I should save before looking for a little boy. I will not get him until I am sure I can care for him in all respects over the next 10-15 years. I've read the "Puppy Care Guide" and a lot of the resource guides here to get a sense of what will be required in the first couple of years.
I know things vary so much based on region, breeder and vet, but I hope to get a sense of "start up" costs for the first year of a yorkie's life. (From purchasing him, to vet care & neutering, to quality food, crate/xpen/toys etc). I will likely get a male puppy* from a breeder (~$1000?) -- While I very much hope to be a Yorkie rescue mom down the road, I understand that many rescues that I have gotten to know prefer that pups go to yorkie-experienced families, which absolutely makes sense.
Thanks so much for your time and insight...It's a long way off till I get him, but I love researching yorkies and spending time here!
Shana
*I want a little boy because I spend a lot of time my brother's female beagle mix, who's my little diva
