[cj125]

Isn't that the million dollar question

The dollar amount is probably the last thing you should be looking at - not that you don't have to take that into consideration - just that going by a price isn't really telling you anything about the dog you're getting.

I think you should start by looking at the breeder. Then the sire & dam, the condition that they live in, their pedigree, health screening etc etc.

Also, try to look at a lot of Yorkies - even in pictures - try to decide on what you're looking for in your Yorkie. Size, coat type and coat color are all factors. There's no guarantees but if you see what you're looking for in the parents and you know that the breeder is striving for "that look" you'd be more apt to get one close to that than just picking one from a litter. Most Yorkie pups look the same but they can end up SO different!

Paying $1000.00 up front for a well bred Yorkie may save you thousands of dollars later.

If money is a problem then maybe looking at a little older dog would help. You'd be able to see what they're really going to look like and probably already have them house trained. Yorkie Rescues, retired show dogs, retired breeders are also an option.

Don't let people fool you. Buying from a top knotch breeder does not have to be more expensive than a hobby breeder. It's just not true. I flew to Dallas to get my boy and he was still cheaper than my girl - who I bought from a terrible pet store!

Ask around about the breeders - take your time - believe me - it's well worth the wait.

Good Luck!