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Originally Posted by TexasKat08  I know EXACTLY how you feel. We have talked to several breeders in our new puppy search, which started several months ago. Finally came to the realization a couple months ago that the ONLY way we were going to feel truly comfortable and trusting was to work with an exhibitor/breeder. They are breeding only to try for a show dog, so you know your puppy is going to LOOK like a standard Yorkie. They do all the testing required to ensure their dams and sires are HEALTHY so your puppy will have the best possible chance of also being healthy. They will be there for you in the future if you have problems with your puppy. They provide the information and support you need AFTER you bring your puppy home. They truly care about the lives they are bringing into the world. It is well thought out and planned. It really is the best possible scenario to ensure your puppy will be a healthy, happy addition to your family. The only downside that I see? They only occasionally have a puppy to place in a pet home so you may have to be patient. I would definitely talk to the breeder's Mary has suggested. I am in central Texas and even considered these breeders, one in particular. Good luck and keep us posted on your search! |
Every breeder show or not should be evaluated for the criteria you want in a dog. There are a few stickies here about this.
Beyond what can be tested for in the breeding pair, is the very key information on the health of the line. Many things can not be tested for and there is only one genetic test I know of for Yorkies, that can help weed out genetically a particular health condition.
Of course you want to know that the breeding pair is free and have been tested for a whole lot of the problems that Yorkies are prone to; however unfortunatley for the breeders it is not a 100% guarantee the pups themselves will be free of those conditions. But it is a very good start and the best we have at the moment.
For show breeders you at least have the opportunity to see their dogs in the rings, to cross check the Championships earned, and to see the "type" of Yorkie that they are breeding. You also have a chance to check into the temperament of the breeding pair, given both have been out there getting their championship.
I think when you are planning a $2000 or so investment, it behooves the buyer to settle back and examine a whole host of factors, starting at just what do I want in my Yorkie? I think for pet owners first is overall health, second is temperament. Do you want a go getter, an explorer, a bouncy full of pep dog, or a dog more laid back. What kind of training do you want to take your dog through? do would you like to do agility, flyball, rally, obedience, scent work, dock diving? Would you like to do/ have your dog certified as a service dog?
All Yorkies are small, the standard sets the max weight at 7 lbs, do you want something at the larger end of the scale, or smaller at 4-5 lbs?
If you want to work with your Yorkie in any of the venues I mentioned, then for all those venues you will need a dog with confidence. All good breeders should Temperament Test their dogs, and share with you those results.
Good luck with your search.