Hi I don't mind answering your query as well as give the reasons. You and anyone reading my opionion must realize I can only go by what I have seen and experienced at a greater degree than what you each personally may know.
By rule of thumb, I do not consider a prospective home for one of my dogs or puppies that have children under the age of about 10 years old. My reasons is that many many people do not understand the time and care needed for a Yorkie. There are many people that really do not parent their children very well and my puppy would definitely be at risk. This seems to be the case moreso nowadays.
Some homes that have older children I do not consider either as prospective homes because these children are also exhibiting to me some problems that I would not put a dog into their home.
I have sold a pup on two different occasions to homes with the youngest child about 7 years old. However, on meeting the family, mom dad and kids, I could see readily that those kids are well parented and my pup will be safe.
As you may have guessed I do not ever ship. I must meet the entire family following the initial telephone interview if I determine this may be a prospective home.
Many times dogs will have to be rehomed when owned by young people that have their first child and find the demands of a new baby and a puppy are too much.
I know there are people here that are in this category. Some of you have coped very well. You are exceptions and I know they can exist. However, I would prefer not putting one of my puppies at risk as I don't know if that prospective buyer does completely understand what they are getting into.
I also do not sell puppies to older people that have very young grandchildren that live with them or are at their homes most of the time. That is for the same reasons that I don't usually sell to families with young children.
My opinions are based on experience and what is usually the case with Yorkies and with any of the toy breeds. It is not just what I have heard about it is also what I have seen out in public, family children torturing the family dog and the parents having no common sense that the child is being too rough and the dog is not in a good situation.
Yes, there can be problems that happen in other situations of homes. That's why I have the contracts I have and also why I will take a puppy back at any time in its lifetime if things aren't working out.
Home preference for one of my puppies or dogs, are empty nesters, retired or semi retired or working different shifts so that someone is home most of the time. If a couple, both must be totally commited to wanting and having a Yorkie. Sometimes a husband isn't happy with the idea and I will not sell them a puppy, both must be commited. |