[yorkiemini]

Most reputable breeders price their pups by how closely they meet the AKC/YTCA standard for the breed. They generally advertise their pups by weight as there is no other standard than “under 7 pounds”. Color, stature, weight are all determined by the “standard for the breed”. Pups that are “off standard” are price accordingly. The general rule (by reputable breeders) is that any female under 5 pounds is a great risk to breed and therefore is a risk to the life of the bitch and puppies, and is not considered an ethical action.

Breeders that have pups that vary greatly from the standard will not give breeding rights as the ultimate goal is to improve the breed with every litter, not to make money, and not to perpetuate an unsatisfactory trait be it off color, size or health risk.

In this day and age most reputable breeders will give a buyer a copy of the DNA and lab tests as well as a health agreement at the time of the sale.

Again, the goal is to improve the breed in every way! The pups you see in the shows are examples of those standards. We are constantly trying to educate the public so that the breed is healthy and good examples of the breed.

You will see very good breeders looking toward darker colors that fall within the standard because that is what they like the most — I have heard judges do on and on about varying colors as well.

I got my Yorkie who always being shown, and doing quite well, because the experience breeder could tell she was going to be too small to breed, although her coat and top line etc were wonderful.