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Originally Posted by Nancy1999  Yorkies are the second most popular breed of dogs after the Labrador Retriever which is number one. Being popular is not necessarily a good thing because many people breed just as a money making proposition and not a love for the breed. When this happens, important safeguards, such as health screening, and only breeding those that are the best examples of the breed are often ignored. In time, this produces sickly dogs that don't often meet breed standards. I agree with the others, find the best breeder you can, and only support those breeders who truly care about the breed, your chances of getting a healthy pet are greatly increased, after all, a good breeder is producing "line" so healthy offspring is important to them as well. |
Here are a few statistics that show what popularity has cost Yorkies:
* Yorkies are thirty-six times more likely to have a liver shunt than all other breeds combined according to a study done at the University of Tennessee.
* Yorkies are ranked #4 in cases of luxating patellas according to the Orthopedic Foundation of America.
Getting a puppy from a reputable breeder who health tests and is knowledgable about genetics and her lines is important if you want a healthy Yorkie. Remember, many genetic health issues don't show up until years later.