It's impossible to know if your little guy is healthy and free of genetic conditions he could pass on to offspring at only eight months old and without health testing.
By health testing we don't mean listening to his heart and lungs. Responsible breeders test to make sure the dogs they intend to breed don't have liver disease, luxating patellas or other orthopedic problems, thyroid imbalances, etc.
Many genetic conditions don't show up for years. My Lady is a perfect example. She was the picture of health for four years ... until her "genetic time bombs" starting going off. She is now both epileptic and diabetic to name just a few of her conditions. Her vet bills and medications run about $5,000 a year now.
Did you know that Yorkies are 36 times more likely to have a liver shunt than all other breeds combined? And that the OFA ranks Yorkies #4 in the number of cases of luxating patellas? Surgery to correct those conditions runs into the thousands. I'm sure you wouldn't want to unknowingly pass that kind of financial liability on to friends and family members.
You've come to right place to learn about being a responsible breeder. Please try to be open minded and listen to the advice given by our experienced YT breeders. |