Originally Posted by Britster (Post 3571788)

I am a college student with a Yorkie. I got Jackson shortly after I turned 18. It's not really something I'd recommend for most normal people my age, but well, I'm not normal ;) No... I'm just not into partying/drinking and all that stuff, but besides that, I am also still living at home going to a local community college. I provide for Jackson solely by myself- that included all the initial puppy expenses... neutering/shots/food/supplies/etc, not to mention all the extra crap I buy him!!! LOL. I spend WAY too much money on my dog. You also have to be prepared that when you do move out, you must look for a pet friendly place if you will be renting and most charge fees.

A dog is definitely a huge life changing experience. I mean, when he was a puppy, I went from a girl who had just graduated HS and was on my staying up late/waking up late schedule... in comes a 9 week pup, and I was suddenly in bed by 8 every night and waking up once in the middle of the night with a pup who had to potty, waking up early with a pup who did not want to sleep in, etc. If, by chance, I DO go out with my friends.. there's no just crashing at their place for the night, I've got a dog to get home to. After classes, I can't always just go out to eat, gotta go home and it's not just a matter of letting him pee, he needs lots of mental and physical stimulation. Now, at 2 1/2, he is obviously on a good schedule... he pretty much goes with the flow with what I do, he will sleep in with me, etc.

I spend basically 90% of my free time with Jackson! My parents were like "WHY are you getting a dog?" when I did and thought he would end up being their responsibility but nope, they are proud of me, hehe. He is my best friend, honestly, we do almost everything together. It's not what I'd consider a 'sacrifice' because I highly enjoy it but for most 21yr olds, it would not be an ideal situation. It's a lot of hard 'work... but I don't like to call it work because I enjoy my time with him greatly. But it's definitely a rarity to find a college student capable of taking care of a dog. I also know that in the case of a super emergency, I have the support of my family.

Originally Posted by natalie14 (Post 3572930)

Sounds hectic!;) Doesn't sound like my preferred lifestyle but I'm glad it works for you! I just like to be more flexible.. not tied down, ya know? But thats just me. :3

Originally Posted by smallmans (Post 3571259)

Yorkies are amazing little family members. I waited 56 years to finally have one. I'm glad I waited. My husband and I are retired and Bella is the love of our lives. We have all the time to devote to her training, exercise, love, and attention. These little furbabies NEED their people and it is only fair to give them the love and attention they thrive on. You are just starting out on your life journey and you have so many wonderful experiences ahead of you. Wait and reward yourself with a Yorkie when you can truly give it the time it deserves. You have a golden and they are awesome! Don't push your parents into it as they are the ones that will care for it when you are in college. As they always say, "Good things are worth waiting for". Good luck with your decision, make it with your head and not your heart, and make the best decision for the DOG.:aimeeyork

Originally Posted by natalie14 (Post 3572930)

Sounds hectic!;) Doesn't sound like my preferred lifestyle but I'm glad it works for you! I just like to be more flexible.. not tied down, ya know? But thats just me. :3

Originally Posted by Britster (Post 3573887)

Then don't get a Yorkie. Or any dog... maybe a fish?