The first thing I want you to be aware of is that there is some really irresponsible breeding of Yorkshire Terriers going on right now. They are a very popular breed because of their small size and cute looks. Please don't buy from a pet store. Those pups are bred in puppy mills and you have no idea what kind of problems you could end up with both in temperament and physical health.
Terriers are not like most of the other small breeds. A Shih Tzu or Maltese usually are much more laid back in temperament than a terrier. Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred to kill rats inside the walls of buildings. They tend to be very feisty but should be loyal and loving.
A puppy that is not handled and socialized from birth will have problems adjusting to humans and usually are not particularly friendly. A puppy that spends most of it's time in a cage in it's new home is not going to be socialized well either. Pups need a lot of time, love and training. Many people buy small breed dogs under the mistaken impression that a small dog does not require as much care as a large breed dog but that is just not true.
Make sure you really check out your breeder. Visit the home and make sure you are allowed to see where and how the pups are raised. Observe both parents. If they won't let you see both parents I would find another breeder. There are plenty of scams going on out there. Many puppy mills hire brokers that take the pups into their homes to sell them.
If you do decide on a Yorkie expect an energetic puppy that needs lots of physical contact. Read a good book on Yorkies. Yorkshire Terriers for Dummies is a well recommended book. Don't buy from the internet. 99% of the ads online are puppy mills in disguise. Look for your local AKC conformation or specialty club. They often have breeder referral people who can point you in the right direction. |