[107barney]

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

Obviously, there are some good breeders who aren’t in the club, after all, people aren’t born in into the club they join it, so they must be a good breeder before someone can recommend them. There will always be people joining clubs for the wrong reason; the right reason would be because you want to be with other likeminded people who believe in preserving and protecting the breed. This isn’t a club that helps you sell puppies, although many breeders don’t understand that. I’m so glad a YorkieTalk member recommended the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America to me. I really wasn’t that familiar with purebreds, and I was looking for a healthy dog as that was of prime importance to me. After caring for my elderly parents I needed something that would give back to me, and I just didn’t have it in me to nurse a dog at that time. I found an excellent breeder through the YTCA and we got to know each other over time, she wanted to be sure I was ready for the commitment, and she told me that even good breeders have dogs that are sick, there’s no real guarantee for that, I mean they might return your money, but how about your heart? I know that she would stick by me no matter what and I was sure she would offer the emotional support I would need. This enabled me to take the plunge. At almost 5 Joey’s the picture of health and knock on wood he continues that way. He’s absolutely adorable too!

So I always recommend someone talking to YTCA breeders, you will learn so much and you will eventually know what you want in a breeder.

I could not agree more. I think it is a good idea to ask to speak to former buyers, including buyers who have bought a dog with a medical concern. That is a good way to see just how much emotional support was given in an individual situation, and whether that person has an ongoing regard for the dog's health once the dust of the dispute has settled and an agreement reached.