need help
 

Hi everyone, I'm interested in buying a yorkie and do not know anything about breeders, can someone give some advise?

Welcome to Yorkie Talk. Where is Stockbridge? What qualities are you looking for in a yorkie? Are you looking for a male or female? Are you interested in showing or breeding later? Yorkies can range anywhere from 2 lbs to 15 lbs or larger grown. Some have beautiful silky coats and some have cottony coats. The prices for a pet quality yorkie could range from $400 to $1500, depending on the breeder you choose. It is wise to ask lots of questions and do lots of research. There are many unethical breeders out there that would be glad to sell you a sickly poor quality puppy, that is why it is wise to pay a little extra money and buy a pup from a reputable breeder. Good luck on your search.

Do not be afraid to ask lots of question and to ask for references from previous puppy owners and the breeder's vet. A breeder should have nothing to hide and should be HAPPY that you are well informed and asking questions. Ask what SPECIFIC health screenings have been performed on the pups and the dam and sire prior to them being bred. Familiarize yourself with the breed standard so that you can better access if a pup you are considering (and it's parents) are quality representations of the breed. ALWAYS visit the breeders home and see for yourself what type of environment the dogs are kept in.

Be aware of and avoid the common red flags associated with breeders:

* Anyone advertising their dogs as "teacups, minis, micros, etc"
* Someone who is breeding more than one type of dog, or crossbreeding and producing mutts, or breeding dogs that do not adhere to the breed standard. (These are definately indicators that you need to very carefully evaluate the breeder's program and *may* suggest things are not on the up and up.)
* Anyone who is registered with the USDA. (This usually indicates a commercial breeder.)
* Someone who's dogs are not being registered with a respected kennel club.
* Any time a breeder has multiple litters within a very short amount of time.
* When a breeder is willing to release a pup at a very young age. (8 weeks is way too early...most agree that 12 weeks is the preferred release age)

Also, when you find out what registration services they use, contact that organization and see if there have been any complaints filed against the breeder.

If all else fails, and you have a question, ask here for advice!

Welcome to YT! I am also in Georgia! :D