How do I choose a puppy/ breeder?
 

Hey everyone - this is my first post so please be gentle!!
Let me tell you a bit about myself first. Basically im moving to Oz in 4 months and iv been waiting ages to get a yorkie puppy. iv read god knows how many training books and articles and I feel I know roughly what to expect.
When Im settled in Oz i wanna get a yorkie but I dont know how to go about choosing one or choosing a breeder. I dont want to purchase from a puppy farm but Im not sure how to find a reputable breeder out there. I also want a fairly docile girl, as its my first time owning a dog. And while I dont want a "teacup" puppy, my bf has told me he doesnt want a big one either so im looking for a mid sized pup too. Has anyone got any ideas or suggestions of where to start? Cos ive heard that breeders have wating lists? Is this true?
Sorry for the essay........

Hanz
xxxxxx

Hey! ok i have NO idea where Oz is :p BUT if you go to "forums" on here and scroll down to "featured breeders" all breeders there, in my opinion, are GREAT breeders. Should "Oz" be outside of the USA then there are things you need to ask your breeder.

- What size are the parents - you do NOT want a breeder who is breeding a yorkie female that is too tiny (3, 4 lbs)
- Have both parents been tested for Liver Shunts and LP (Luxating Pattela- slipped knee cap)
- Where do you dogs sleep and spend their day? Ask if you can come visit- if the breeder doesn't like that idea... stay clear
- DOes the pup come with a health guarantee.
- what age do you let the puppy go home.. MOST reputable breeders will say somewhere btween 10-12 weeks or when the pup gets to a certain size (Layla's breeder said she had be to 2 lbs or 12 weeks.. whichever came first)

as for size. My Layla is 6.4 lbs and we think she is the perfect size. Still small enough that i can carry her for long periods of time if i have to.. but not so small that i have to worry about her all the time. Good luck.. take your time.. do your research and listen to your gut (oh and other people here on YT!)

WELCOME!

Welcome to YT, princess_tink! Of COURSE we'll be gentle! :)

I've never had to locate a breeder, so I'm not the best person to give advice, but I have seen a couple good links posted when others have had your same question.

The Yorkshire Terrier Club of America has some good information and a code of ethics for breeders and owners. Check that out here:

Yorkshire Terrier Club of America

And one of the breeders who posts here has what appears to be an excellent overview of how to choose a pup. Check it out.

South East Texas Yorkies - Choosing a Puppy

Good luck.

GREAT link Mike! I wish i had seen the second one when i was buying!

Thanks for all the help guys - lol Oz is the shortened name for Australia!! Thanks for the advice and links, they help loads! I cant w8 to get my baby :)

OZ
 

Well, you sure learn something everyday...I had no idea Australia was called OZ...
Welcome to YT..sometimes it is a bit like OZ..at other times, the Twilight zone..