Good post. I'm glad this information is getting put out there. I am a first time Yorkie owner and my little guy is almost 5 lbs. Taking care of him has been quite a learning curve compared to my 60 lb. golden retriever and 2 cats who are both over 10 lbs. I'd like to say I think more responsibility needs to be put on the breeder for educating the people they are selling these dogs to. I had not done much research before getting my yorkie because I was not in the market for another dog. I guess you could say it was almost an impulse buy, when I saw the little guy's face I had to bring him home. I've also never "bought" a dog, I've always adopted from shelters. The lady I bought him from (a friend of a co-worker) did not inform me of any of the challenges and potential hazards of having such a small dog. Now that I know and have read up on the breed, I am the first to educate anyone who asks me about yorkies or other small breeds. It is the breeder's duty and responsibility to make sure that people are aware of the needs of these dogs so that they can have healthy and safe environments in which to live. Never assume people know. I didn't know what questions to ask so I didn't get the information I needed. I also take responsibility for my ignorance and know that it is also the owner's responsibility to educate themselves. But, as a first line of defense, the breeders should ensure that their animals will have the best educated parent they can possibly have.
Thanks for letting me have my say.
