Sooo many questions! Please help! - YorkieTalk.com Forums

chellebelle · 02-13-2005, 11:35 AM

Hi, everyone!

I'm new here and I'm thinking of purchasing a Yorkie. I have so many questions, though, and am thoroughly confused.

I've been researching on the internet, and I've learned a little bit. This looked like a great place with lots of knowledge, so I thought I'd try to ask here. So here goes...

1. Puppy vs. Adult
I, of course, want an adorable puppy, but I know it's a lot of time and hard work to train them. I live in an apartment and have heard that purchasing an adult is easier because they are usually housetrained. Opinions?

2. Female vs. Male
Anybody have any preferences? I don't really know the differences between the two... any yorkie would be lovely! I'm kinda leaning towards a female, though I've noticed they are quite a bit more expensive. Others have mentioned to keep in mind that females have that "time of the month" and males ummm.... hump things.

I know it sounds incredibly silly! Are those things I should really consider?

3. I like the "puppy" look
I love how Yorkie puppies look and I love their short, choppy hair. I know they are known for their beautiful hair, but I think I'd like to keep the hair short (easier maintenance and I prefer the look). I tried to search for pics of adult dogs with short hair or a "puppy cut", but I couldn't find any. So far, I've only seen adult Yorkies with longer hair and they look very, very different from the puppy pics. I'm trying to figure out if I keeping the hair short keeps them looking more like how they do when they're puppies. Does anyone have any comments or pics of adult yorkies with puppy cuts?

4. Yorkies price
I know Yorkies are spendy little guys and worth every penny, but I was wondering why is there such a broad price range? I've seen some at $700 to $1000 to $6500!

Are there "special" Yorkies or something? That seems like so much money. What is the general price for Yorkies? Honestly, I was going into this with about $400-$500, but I can see that the price is about double that. I guess I just don't want to get ripped off.

5. Where to buy
I see so many places and people to buy Yorkies from. I'm not sure where to go. I know definitely NOT the pet store. I won't even go into that!

Anyways, how do I know if the person is reputable, etc. I've heard some breeders test their dogs for diseases, give shots, and all sorts of things. Is this something all breeders should do?

I'll probably think of more questions, but this is so long already. I apologize for the long post, but I really do want to educate myself before buying. Any advice or help towards any of my questions would be greatly appreciated! Or if you could direct me to a good site or previous threads, that would help too. Thank you in advance!

chellebelle

Cairos Mom · 02-13-2005, 12:01 PM

Hi Chellebelle.
I just went through the same thing you did!!! I'll try to help you out as much as I can.
I would recommend doing internet research to see if you should get an adult or a puppy, because this is really a personal preference. A couple of pros to getting an adult are they are usually cheaper because you can get a retired breeding or show dog or better yet, one from a yorkie rescue. Also, you know how it will look and the housetraining is already done for you.
Fem vs Male - Just so you know, the females can hump things too. I made me choice for a female just because I wanted a little girl to dress up and do girly things with. ( My husband refuses to let me put anything except for hoodies on our male minpin

)
A good picture for an adult dog with a puppy cut is
http://www.aprettypuppy.com
just scroll down to the bottom of the page. This is how I am going to keep my babys hair too.
I was lucky enough to get my puppy for $400 plus all the vet costs because I knew the owners of the stud. The reason the prices are so high is because it costs alot to breed the dogs and you want to make sure that you are getting one from a good breeder. This usually means that you will pay more. There is always the option of going with an adult dog though. If you find a breeder you like but think the pups are out of your price range, ask them about any older puppies or adult dogs that they may have. They will usually be much cheaper.
Just make sure that any breeder you buy from will let you go to their home and view all of the dogs. If they insist that you can't come over or they will only bring in one dog at a time and not let you see where the dogs reside, RUN!! These people are trying to hide something and they are likely a puppy mille or backyard breeder. A good breeder will encourage you to come over (unless they have very young puppies) and will also tell you everything I just told you. You can find good breeders through reference and you can search by location using the american kennel club website.

I hope this helps, and good luck!!!
Amanda

chellebelle · 02-13-2005, 12:18 PM

Amanda- Thank you so much for the reply! That helped a lot. I especially liked the link to the cute Yorkie with the puppy cut. I could not find one anywhere! I, too, want a little girl... hopefully I will find one soon! I had a question regarding females. It seems like a silly question (keep in mind I've never had a female dog!), but what about a female dog's "time of the month"? What exactly are you supposed to do? (Anyone can chime in if they like!

) I've always had male dogs so I've never even had to think about it!

Thanks again,
chellebelle

Lauri · 02-13-2005, 12:34 PM

Puppy Panties!!! LOL That would be my thought, they sell them on the internet and most of us rescues have little shops associated with our groups that act as fundraisers for our rescue operations. The members make and then donate the items for the general public to buy. They are great since you just put a feminine napkin in them and the male dogs can't get to them, plus in case you have a typical Yorkie, if they happen to potty in the house even though they are housebroken, you are safe on that issue too!!

chellebelle · 02-13-2005, 12:47 PM

Lauri- Thanks for the input! LOL, I honestly have never heard of such a thing... puppy panties... that's too funny! So all female dogs have that time of the month and there's no way of avoiding it? It's just going to happen? There's no way of stopping it!

That might help me decide with the whole female vs. male decision! This might be dumb question, but can anything be done so they don't have it? Maybe someone that has a female Yorkie can chime in and inform me if it really is a hastle or not to deal with!

P.S. This is totally off the subject, but does anyone know how I can make my avatar pic bigger? Thanks!

feminvstr · 02-13-2005, 12:48 PM

puppy vs adult: first as a puppy you train them as to your way of life your time your schedule and your comands. An adult has been raised and will be stubborn to adapt to your ways. Most often reason someone selling an adult yorkie is that cant get him/her potty trained, you may inherit that problem plus many more such as barking (yapping) mine knows the word NO BARK and they simply stop on command. Puppies are simplier in the long run IMHO.

Male vs Female: really isnt much difference in training although I do find my female more protective when people come to the home and my male greeting them with open arms. If you do not plan on spay or neutering as the male ages you might find him spraying in the house buy a puppy band and a box of mini pads if that happens and it is sure to stop it or keep it under control.

The Puppy look: many people do not have the time for required daily grooming of a yorkie to keeping it to its beauty and grace. I keep my female at normal length (above the floor) my male is clipped his entire saddle leaving the head, legs and tail long also known as the lions cut. He seems to prefer it as well.

Yorkie pricing and where to buy: I know in my area (northwest) varies $600 to $2800 I have called many ads in my local paper inquiring how they determine their price. Some are up front about it...opinions range price on size, location, demand and lastly pedgree.

The less expensive ones have been mostly puppies at 6-7 weeks ready to go to new home. These alarm me as I consider them back yard breeders, usually a larger size puppy and or they are breeding for the money not the quality or proper care of the puppy.

A good breeder will never let their babies go before 10-12 weeks and with at least two shots and three wormings. You can find a reputable breeder by inquiring through the AKC, the local Yorkie clubs in your area, recommendations through other yorkie owners or even inquire with the local vets in your area. Never buy from a Pet Store and never buy from someone that will NOT let you in their home.

Hope this helps
Kimberly

Hannah · 02-13-2005, 01:11 PM

Actually, my breeder gave us Jackson at 8 weeks because she believes this is the period of bonding. We had NO problems with Jackson whereas the other 2 Yorkies that we had to return came to us at 12 weeks each and one was sickly and the other vicious!They were all form differenty breeders. A good breeder will:

give you names of people who can recommend them

have the mom or mom and dad present in the house

check YOU out

let you see the dog before you pick it up

refund your money if for any reason you do not want the puppy

answer your questions and concerns AFTER she has your money!

luvdorkyyorkies · 02-13-2005, 01:34 PM

Do you consider me a backyard breeder? Probably.
Do your puppies compare to mine? no..............DID I SAY NO?
I raise exceptional puppies.
I challenge you to a duel.
Are my puppies champions? maybe, no, probably.

shireyak · 02-13-2005, 01:43 PM

I agree with Hannah on the breeder issues........I visited gracies mom and dad (both on site) before gracie was born, the breeder asked ME many questions, I was able to VERIFY the temperment of sire and dam, check out the breeder's surroundings, choose my puppy(i got first choice from being a VERY persistent caller

) and has been there for me to answer any questions to this day.

As for puppy VS adult.......that's a tough question for you to ponder on your own situation.....do you work outside the home? A yorkie puppy needs a lot of attention...........I am returning to the work force soon, I put my career on hold for 2 years to take care of terminally ill family members and I'm not sure gracie would have faired well alone during the day while she was very young. Separation anxiety is a real concern for all Yorkies, especially little ones. Bonding with you is VERY important at 8-12 weeks of age.

Hope this helps!!!!!!!!!

shireyak · 02-13-2005, 01:48 PM

OH, and most important,,,,,,,,Look on the Yorkshire Terrier Association web site for the chapter in your state and call them to ask for a list of reputable breeders......they will not know EVERYONE, but were a valuable resource for me with many questions, concerns and general info

feminvstr · 02-13-2005, 01:55 PM

I did not write to offend anyone by any means.

any tiny breed is very fragile and vulnerable to its environment. I let them go to there new home with the max that i can give them most important two shots and a somewhat developed immune system. I start their first shot at 8 weeks second at 12 weeks and last done by new owner @ 16 weeks.

I have a nice pedigree on my adults both with some champions but that is not what I sell for you can not guarantee a show quality puppy. I strive for a healthy, happy and well developed puppy.

please forgive me if I have offended anyone, for these are just my humble opinions and the finiky way I raise my babies.

Kimberly

Cairos Mom · 02-13-2005, 02:59 PM

About the females - I was told that once they are spayed they will not have their monthlies and if you ahve them laser spayed, it can be done befor they even have one cycle. My vet told me that the pups can be done as young as 8 weeks as long as they are big enough, but I'm waiting till my little girl is 6 months.

YorkieRose · 02-13-2005, 02:59 PM

Kelly..I have gone down this "type of breeder" road so many times with show breeder friends..many do not agree and never will.

There is a difference in a hobby breeder who breeds pets and a backyard breeder. Just because a breeder does not show does not make them a breeder to avoid IMO. I bred for quite awhile before I decided to show..maybe I am still considered a backyard breeder, but who cares?

02-13-2005, 11:35 AM	#1
chellebelle YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 3	Sooo many questions! Please help! Hi, everyone! I'm new here and I'm thinking of purchasing a Yorkie. I have so many questions, though, and am thoroughly confused. I've been researching on the internet, and I've learned a little bit. This looked like a great place with lots of knowledge, so I thought I'd try to ask here. So here goes... 1. Puppy vs. Adult I, of course, want an adorable puppy, but I know it's a lot of time and hard work to train them. I live in an apartment and have heard that purchasing an adult is easier because they are usually housetrained. Opinions? 2. Female vs. Male Anybody have any preferences? I don't really know the differences between the two... any yorkie would be lovely! I'm kinda leaning towards a female, though I've noticed they are quite a bit more expensive. Others have mentioned to keep in mind that females have that "time of the month" and males ummm.... hump things. I know it sounds incredibly silly! Are those things I should really consider? 3. I like the "puppy" look I love how Yorkie puppies look and I love their short, choppy hair. I know they are known for their beautiful hair, but I think I'd like to keep the hair short (easier maintenance and I prefer the look). I tried to search for pics of adult dogs with short hair or a "puppy cut", but I couldn't find any. So far, I've only seen adult Yorkies with longer hair and they look very, very different from the puppy pics. I'm trying to figure out if I keeping the hair short keeps them looking more like how they do when they're puppies. Does anyone have any comments or pics of adult yorkies with puppy cuts? 4. Yorkies price I know Yorkies are spendy little guys and worth every penny, but I was wondering why is there such a broad price range? I've seen some at $700 to $1000 to $6500! Are there "special" Yorkies or something? That seems like so much money. What is the general price for Yorkies? Honestly, I was going into this with about $400-$500, but I can see that the price is about double that. I guess I just don't want to get ripped off. 5. Where to buy I see so many places and people to buy Yorkies from. I'm not sure where to go. I know definitely NOT the pet store. I won't even go into that! Anyways, how do I know if the person is reputable, etc. I've heard some breeders test their dogs for diseases, give shots, and all sorts of things. Is this something all breeders should do? I'll probably think of more questions, but this is so long already. I apologize for the long post, but I really do want to educate myself before buying. Any advice or help towards any of my questions would be greatly appreciated! Or if you could direct me to a good site or previous threads, that would help too. Thank you in advance! chellebelle

02-13-2005, 12:34 PM	#4
Lauri Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Denham springs, Louisiana Posts: 37	Puppy Panties!!! LOL That would be my thought, they sell them on the internet and most of us rescues have little shops associated with our groups that act as fundraisers for our rescue operations. The members make and then donate the items for the general public to buy. They are great since you just put a feminine napkin in them and the male dogs can't get to them, plus in case you have a typical Yorkie, if they happen to potty in the house even though they are housebroken, you are safe on that issue too!! __________________ Laura "Bless the Beasts and the Children" K.C. UYR Foster mom to Scooter, 5 year old male neutered yorkie, Mom to Pita, 7 year old male neuterd yorkie that I'm adopting. and C.J. the 6 year old neuterd Himalayan cat and Sweetie, the 8 year old female Congo African Gray Nanna to, Andrew,David,James,Trystyn,and my littlest sweet pea, Lexi

02-13-2005, 12:47 PM	#5
chellebelle YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 3	Lauri- Thanks for the input! LOL, I honestly have never heard of such a thing... puppy panties... that's too funny! So all female dogs have that time of the month and there's no way of avoiding it? It's just going to happen? There's no way of stopping it! That might help me decide with the whole female vs. male decision! This might be dumb question, but can anything be done so they don't have it? Maybe someone that has a female Yorkie can chime in and inform me if it really is a hastle or not to deal with! P.S. This is totally off the subject, but does anyone know how I can make my avatar pic bigger? Thanks! Last edited by chellebelle; 02-13-2005 at 12:49 PM.

02-13-2005, 12:48 PM	#6
feminvstr Donating YT 4000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Portland Oregon Posts: 4,405	questions hope this helps puppy vs adult: first as a puppy you train them as to your way of life your time your schedule and your comands. An adult has been raised and will be stubborn to adapt to your ways. Most often reason someone selling an adult yorkie is that cant get him/her potty trained, you may inherit that problem plus many more such as barking (yapping) mine knows the word NO BARK and they simply stop on command. Puppies are simplier in the long run IMHO. Male vs Female: really isnt much difference in training although I do find my female more protective when people come to the home and my male greeting them with open arms. If you do not plan on spay or neutering as the male ages you might find him spraying in the house buy a puppy band and a box of mini pads if that happens and it is sure to stop it or keep it under control. The Puppy look: many people do not have the time for required daily grooming of a yorkie to keeping it to its beauty and grace. I keep my female at normal length (above the floor) my male is clipped his entire saddle leaving the head, legs and tail long also known as the lions cut. He seems to prefer it as well. Yorkie pricing and where to buy: I know in my area (northwest) varies $600 to $2800 I have called many ads in my local paper inquiring how they determine their price. Some are up front about it...opinions range price on size, location, demand and lastly pedgree. The less expensive ones have been mostly puppies at 6-7 weeks ready to go to new home. These alarm me as I consider them back yard breeders, usually a larger size puppy and or they are breeding for the money not the quality or proper care of the puppy. A good breeder will never let their babies go before 10-12 weeks and with at least two shots and three wormings. You can find a reputable breeder by inquiring through the AKC, the local Yorkie clubs in your area, recommendations through other yorkie owners or even inquire with the local vets in your area. Never buy from a Pet Store and never buy from someone that will NOT let you in their home. Hope this helps Kimberly

02-13-2005, 01:11 PM	#7
Hannah YT Addict Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 310	Good Breeder Actually, my breeder gave us Jackson at 8 weeks because she believes this is the period of bonding. We had NO problems with Jackson whereas the other 2 Yorkies that we had to return came to us at 12 weeks each and one was sickly and the other vicious!They were all form differenty breeders. A good breeder will: give you names of people who can recommend them have the mom or mom and dad present in the house check YOU out let you see the dog before you pick it up refund your money if for any reason you do not want the puppy answer your questions and concerns AFTER she has your money!

02-13-2005, 12:01 PM	#2
Cairos Mom Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Calgary, AB Posts: 94	Hi Chellebelle. I just went through the same thing you did!!! I'll try to help you out as much as I can. I would recommend doing internet research to see if you should get an adult or a puppy, because this is really a personal preference. A couple of pros to getting an adult are they are usually cheaper because you can get a retired breeding or show dog or better yet, one from a yorkie rescue. Also, you know how it will look and the housetraining is already done for you. Fem vs Male - Just so you know, the females can hump things too. I made me choice for a female just because I wanted a little girl to dress up and do girly things with. ( My husband refuses to let me put anything except for hoodies on our male minpin ) A good picture for an adult dog with a puppy cut is http://www.aprettypuppy.com just scroll down to the bottom of the page. This is how I am going to keep my babys hair too. I was lucky enough to get my puppy for $400 plus all the vet costs because I knew the owners of the stud. The reason the prices are so high is because it costs alot to breed the dogs and you want to make sure that you are getting one from a good breeder. This usually means that you will pay more. There is always the option of going with an adult dog though. If you find a breeder you like but think the pups are out of your price range, ask them about any older puppies or adult dogs that they may have. They will usually be much cheaper. Just make sure that any breeder you buy from will let you go to their home and view all of the dogs. If they insist that you can't come over or they will only bring in one dog at a time and not let you see where the dogs reside, RUN!! These people are trying to hide something and they are likely a puppy mille or backyard breeder. A good breeder will encourage you to come over (unless they have very young puppies) and will also tell you everything I just told you. You can find good breeders through reference and you can search by location using the american kennel club website. I hope this helps, and good luck!!! Amanda

02-13-2005, 12:18 PM	#3
chellebelle YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 3	Amanda- Thank you so much for the reply! That helped a lot. I especially liked the link to the cute Yorkie with the puppy cut. I could not find one anywhere! I, too, want a little girl... hopefully I will find one soon! I had a question regarding females. It seems like a silly question (keep in mind I've never had a female dog!), but what about a female dog's "time of the month"? What exactly are you supposed to do? (Anyone can chime in if they like! ) I've always had male dogs so I've never even had to think about it! Thanks again, chellebelle

02-13-2005, 01:34 PM	#8
luvdorkyyorkies BANNED! Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Illinois Posts: 1,681	Do you consider me a backyard breeder? Probably. Do your puppies compare to mine? no..............DID I SAY NO? I raise exceptional puppies. I challenge you to a duel. Are my puppies champions? maybe, no, probably.

02-13-2005, 01:43 PM	#9
shireyak YT Addict Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Virginia Posts: 323	I agree with Hannah on the breeder issues........I visited gracies mom and dad (both on site) before gracie was born, the breeder asked ME many questions, I was able to VERIFY the temperment of sire and dam, check out the breeder's surroundings, choose my puppy(i got first choice from being a VERY persistent caller ) and has been there for me to answer any questions to this day. As for puppy VS adult.......that's a tough question for you to ponder on your own situation.....do you work outside the home? A yorkie puppy needs a lot of attention...........I am returning to the work force soon, I put my career on hold for 2 years to take care of terminally ill family members and I'm not sure gracie would have faired well alone during the day while she was very young. Separation anxiety is a real concern for all Yorkies, especially little ones. Bonding with you is VERY important at 8-12 weeks of age. Hope this helps!!!!!!!!!

02-13-2005, 01:48 PM	#10
shireyak YT Addict Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Virginia Posts: 323	OH, and most important,,,,,,,,Look on the Yorkshire Terrier Association web site for the chapter in your state and call them to ask for a list of reputable breeders......they will not know EVERYONE, but were a valuable resource for me with many questions, concerns and general info

02-13-2005, 01:55 PM	#11
feminvstr Donating YT 4000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Portland Oregon Posts: 4,405	Dear Kelly I did not write to offend anyone by any means. any tiny breed is very fragile and vulnerable to its environment. I let them go to there new home with the max that i can give them most important two shots and a somewhat developed immune system. I start their first shot at 8 weeks second at 12 weeks and last done by new owner @ 16 weeks. I have a nice pedigree on my adults both with some champions but that is not what I sell for you can not guarantee a show quality puppy. I strive for a healthy, happy and well developed puppy. please forgive me if I have offended anyone, for these are just my humble opinions and the finiky way I raise my babies. Kimberly

02-13-2005, 02:59 PM	#12
Cairos Mom Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Calgary, AB Posts: 94	About the females - I was told that once they are spayed they will not have their monthlies and if you ahve them laser spayed, it can be done befor they even have one cycle. My vet told me that the pups can be done as young as 8 weeks as long as they are big enough, but I'm waiting till my little girl is 6 months. __________________ Amanda & Cairo

02-13-2005, 02:59 PM	#13
YorkieRose No Longer a Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: South Florida Posts: 8,577	breeders Kelly..I have gone down this "type of breeder" road so many times with show breeder friends..many do not agree and never will. There is a difference in a hobby breeder who breeds pets and a backyard breeder. Just because a breeder does not show does not make them a breeder to avoid IMO. I bred for quite awhile before I decided to show..maybe I am still considered a backyard breeder, but who cares?