Here in NW Florida, I found Yorkie pups being advertised anywhere from $600 to $2000. Champions in their bloodline seemed to have some to do with the pricing but more than that, I saw those who took breeding serious, making sure not to breed any problem traits/genetic medical tendencies usually charged a bit more. Hobby breeders that just had a litter or two a year seemed to charge the least and sometimes did not have much lineage information. Often the lower priced Yorkies were CKC registered instead of AKC.
I also saw just a little different look to the puppies and parents. I had a particular look in mind before I started and price was not going to sway that. I looked to the parents and made my selection. The parents that seemed to have the silkiest coats and the best markings, the cutest faces, the most love of human interaction, also had puppies towards the higher end.
I bought a male and have a deposit on a female from two different home breeders that both seemed to have a genuine love for their pets and took extra care in their breeding. They both made almost as many inquiries to me as I did to them -- making sure their Yorkie pups were going to good homes. Each took care not to overbreed or breed their mothers too young. Both had clean homes where their Yorkies got to be a part of the family and not spend their lives in cages. I paid $1200 for the male and will pay $1500 for the female. The latter will go up to $2000 on her next litter -- and she deserves to get it. Her Yorkies are beautiful and so well cared for. She also shares a wealth of experience and knowledge when you buy her dogs.
That may seem like a lot in one respect but it is such as small price for what they give in return. I will wind up spending a lot more for vets, food, toys, beds, carriers, etc. Buying a Yorkie or any pet, is not a one time expense -- it is like having a baby -- you will pay for the next 18 years (if you're lucky!)
My first Yorkie was only $600 and was the light of our life. She did not have perfect Yorkie characteristics and would have never made the show ring -- but she won our hearts like no other. We miss her a lot. I have since found out that she came from pretty much a puppy mill type breeder. She had some health issues but still she was a loving addition to our family. So, price alone will not tell if your dog will be what you want.
This time around, I would like to have at least one litter of puppies and I made sure to get pedigrees that needed to be continued along with making sure they came from the right type of atmosphere. Now -- the rest is up to us! And we have a lot of love and attention to give! Good luck on your own quest! |