So my girlfriend wants a yorkie...
 

My girlfriend wants a Yorkshire Terrier because she finds them to be absolutely adorable. If we pass the pet store in our local mall, she absolutely must stop and look at them for a little while.

Now, we have totally divergent opinions on this matter. She really wants one, and I really DON'T want one. However, since relationships are built on comprimise, the arrangement we've worked out on this is that she can get the dog but I will be absolved of having to take care of the responsibilities associated with a dog like this. That includes taking it for walks, feeding it, cleaning up after it before it gets housebroken, letting it out to do its "business", etc.

The main reason I am posting this is that I want a common-sense, simple description of exactly what it means to have to properly take care of a Yorkie from established owners of these dogs. I think that if she saw how much work these dogs apparently can be, it would do two things:

1) Discourage her from getting a pet she cannot adequately take care of.
2) Give her no excuse for pawning off duties on me when she finds it to be too much to do.

We work full time, with the same schedule. This means this dog will be alone between 7AM and 5PM Monday through Friday. We also usually leave for a good part of the weekend days as well...typically, on a Saturday, we take off shopping and doing other things around 10AM and don't return until the evening. Sunday would be the only day I can really say we'd be around the majority of the day. From all I have read, it seems that Yorkies are highly dependent on attention from their owners. While I have no doubt at all my girlfriend would give it quite a bit of attention when she could, the fact that she works 55 hours a week usually probably would put time at a premium.

So given that description...do you think this type of environment would really be one that'd be ideal for a Yorkie?? Keep in mind we have no children or other animals.

I guess I'm just thinking she may be looking too much at how cute she feels they are, and not enough about the reality of what it takes to care for these dogs and how much attention they need.

Relationships are a partnership and I think you both should be involved in the care of the dog. However I feel you are both away from your house too much. Yorkies are needy. If you work 55 hrs a week and then are gone all day on Saturday also that is too much time for a dog to be left alone. His training will suffer and he will most likely have separation anxiety problems

My opnion is this:

Dont get one!!!

If the BOTH of you dont want one, the poor little dog will suffer, You BOTH need to want this pup... YES there is alot involed in taking PROPER care of a yorkie, especially a puppy... Do your research and read on this forum all you can reguarding raising a yorkie puppy, then decide.

But I say NO dont get one.

I think that about says it all...

Why don't you encourage your girlfriend to volunteer at a shelter for a little while... It might not be the same thing as having a dog but she can help dogs in need.. After doing that, maybe she will relaize it might be too much work to get one of her own, or maybe it will make her realize if she does want one, she might need prioritize a little bit.. Good luck with your decesion

:thumbup: :thumbup: I have to agree...I don't blame your g/f for wanting one but maybe one day when you both have more time to put into caring for a small breed would be best...

First off, stay away from petstores, they only sell puppy mill puppies. BAD, BAD, BAD places. If you decide to get a yorkie look for a reputable breeder that loves the yorkie breed and takes pride in their dogs. Now, whether it is a yorkie or any other breed puppy for that matter being away 55 hrs. a week will make it really hard to get the puppy housebroken or trained. In my opinion no dog should be left alone that much. Yorkies are easy to take with you, they fit in small carriers. Yes, yorkies LOVE attention and often demand it, plus they are small and need supervision at a young age because of hypoglycemia issues. They require regular grooming, their hair grows long just like people if you do not get them cut. They are too cute for words, and be pre-warned most men melt when a yorkie comes into their home, even though they said they didn't want one. LOL Yorkies can also sometimes be hard to get housebroken. Most of all yorkies are the sweetest,cutest, best little fur balls to have around. As most on here will tell you you can't have just one. With all breeds there are pros and cons, just make sure you have time and money(vet care) for a new puppy before you make this big dicision. These are all just my opinion, hope it helps some. Good luck.

It's nothing against Yorkies....I'd rather have one of those than a BIG dog....at least it won't slobber and make the house smell. I think at this stage, with us just moving into a new house, I don't want to have to worry about making sure an animal doesn't urinate on my new carpet.

I have to agree that there seems that there won't be too much time for the Yorkie.

Both my husband and I work full time. I leave the house at 8am and don't return until 6 or 7 pm. I have 2 Yorkies, so they keep each other company during the day. However, every and I mean every other minute of every day and every night I spend with Roxy and TJ. They are my life. I walk them, feed them, we play for hours and then we all sleep together. On the weekends, I don't leave the house for very long, or we bring them with us to places that are doggie friendly. Gosh, I even belong to a Yorkie Meetup - we meet once a month and have a play date. I treat Roxy and TJ as they were my children - whom I love and adore - well pretty much whom I slave over hahahaha - But honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. My life is committed to Roxy and TJ, and then my hubby and me! ;)

Best of Luck!
They do require alot of attention, so be prepared to use your spare time on and with the Yorkie :D

One thing that worries me about this is that, sure you can find tons of Yorkies in the classifieds that say they're AKC certified....but is that all you REALLY need to look for in a Yorkie?? You're saying there's a lot to how they are raised...and I'd have no clue what to look for when looking at them from the breeder.

Hi there, you definately have a good reason to be concerned. I have two yorkie girls and a pekingese and all three are very dependent. Tons of people have a similar work schedule as you guys do and still have a yorkie. However, this will probably make potty training a little more difficult. Also, noway could you stay away all day with the dog left unattended. Depending on size, you have to make sure they eat enough because many health risks can occur. Especially when they are so young. Also, yorkies and any dogs are expensive to own. However, yorkies in my opinion need to be watched more closely. Its an absolute must that you find a good vet that feels comfortable to deal with a small dog. You will be shocked to see how many don't feel comfortable and will even tell you. There are so many things that have to be considered. Expenses is a huge part but far from the only thing to worry about. Say you guys want to shop on the weekend all day, who will watch the dog?? Will you work to train it to potty on a pad? It would never be able to hold itself all day like that. Also, lack of attention could create a depressed dog for starters or a very misbehaved one. Grooming is also something to consider. A puppy cut isn't so hard to care for but unless you plan on doing it, this will have to be done atleast every 2 months and some places are not cheap. Nails need trimmed often and those are only minor examples of things that a yorkie requires. In my opinion these dogs need a lot of attention. You will see that mostly everyone on here will tell you how their dog is like their tail. I honestly believe they are just naturally loveable pets and want with you so much. It really doesn't seem like a yorkie is right for you guys. Maybe later but too much is going on with your lives that it wouldn't be right for that poor dog to be left alone like that all the time. Again, just my opinion but I suggest waiting. Good Luck to you!!

I think one of her main problems is that she realyl wants to feel like she's taking care of something...and since we're not having kids just yet...well, a cute little dog will work.

See, I'm not so sure even my girlfriend would spend that much time with the dog....she'd spend a lot, but she has many days that she's just exhausted and wants to rest. Typically, when I come home, I either go on the computer or just watch TV for a while with Heidi (the girlfriend)...sometimes video games. I just hope if she gets the dog, she doesn't neglect it.

I'd agree with you totally on this.

How much does a Yorkie cost you monthly would you say??

As it is, we're movign into a new house as I'd said...and we're spending a lot of money on furniture and putting extra towards house payments....if it's a large expense, it may not be feasible.

Hmmm...this is a tough one. It would be best if both of you wanted the dog but since that isn't the case, I don't feel it's right for your girlfriend to be denied a Yorkie if she really wants one and is committed to taking care of it. Yorkies crave human attention. Due to their small size, they are portable. :D So if you and she need to run errands on Saturdays, your girlfriend can bring her along in a carrier -- that way, you'd have the best of both worlds.

I would not recommend just saying NO to the dog. I think if she really wants a Yorkie as badly as you say she does, she (and you) will find a way to make it work. The total unconditional love these little ones give you will outshine any adjustments you may have to make. :D

All the best of you to you both.

I just saw this post ... if she doesn't really want a Yorkie but something cute and cuddly temporary to take care of until you have children, then I would definitely not get a dog. I don't mean to be harsh but that's my honest opinion.

I had no idea what I was 'really' getting into when I got Roxy and TJ. I don't regret it, I grew up fast, and also filled a huge hole in my heart with the love I have for them and for the love they give back.

They are now 2.5 years old. This May, I will have had them for 2 years! WOW I can't believe it - But, anyway, what a 2 years. Between TJ having IBD - Roxy having 2 LP surgeries - Getting Married (2 parties) - Going to Italy 2 years in a row - AND THEN THE NORMAL PUPPY TRAINING!

Boy oh Boy - I don't recall the last time I was able to come home from work and take nap! :rolleyes: I can't b/c Roxy and TJ won't let me even if I wanted too - hahahaha

Seriously though, you said you are moving into a new house, you two should get things settled and organized and then go from there! I don't think a Yorkie should be a definate NO, but just give it some time to settle and see where you 2 are at! :)

Please don't get one. please. It is obvious that you guys (or she) are not ready. People shouldn't get yorkies or dogs in general cuz the are cute. So DO NOT get one. thanks in advance.

You know I never thought about it before. It always seems like I'm buying something. However, they are beyond spoiled :p I mean I just placed an order online for $200 just for stuff for my one's little birthday party I'm having, LOL! I groom myself so I do save there but roughly for the things they actually need wouldn't be that high. I have three so its kinda hard for me to say. I buy a big bag of food which last for months. (atleast 6) Maybe someone else could help answer this question better then me. Sorry!!

Why else do people get Yorkies?? Isn't a great part of their appeal how they look?? I find that to be a poor reason to tell somebody not to get a dog.

I personally think it's wrong to not let someone pursue their dream of having a pet. I think as long as she knows what this breed will require in care and time, there should be no reason not to let her get one. You can say all you want that you won't help, but the minute that cute little face looks up at you to pick her up and licks your nose, you're a goner.
It's great that you've come here to do your research. She needs to know EVERYTHING there is about caring for them. My b/f wasn't even an animal person at all and now we have two and he's in total bliss when they are both sleeping in his arms. They need a lot of attention, you can't just leave them to entertain themselves. I work from 8-430 and get hom by 5, and they are happpy as clams to see me. I spend the rest of the evening with them. I go to dinners with my honey here and there but we mostly do that on weekends anyway. On weekends when we do stuff, we either leave them with someone or take them with us. If you really want something, you do anything for it. Just depends on how bad she wants it. I think you should be more supportive, as long as she does her homework and researches everything. I'm sure if you wanted something she would put her feelings aside and let you have it, because she would want to make you happy. But definitely if you know she's going to punk out on the responsibility, then no don't get one.

When you first get a Yorkie, there are several expenses such as, but not limited to, the following:

1. Vet check (blood work, stool sample test, etc.)

2. Puppy shots and then adult shots when the puppy turns 1 year old

3. Spaying/Neutering between 6 months to 1 year old

4. Crate (if you are going to crate train), wee wee pads, food, food and water bowls, toys, blankets, harnesses and leashes, clothes (for cold winter month) and other odds and ends

There are some more things but those are basic, general things that you will need when brining a puppy home for the first time. These things can cost anywhere from $200 - $500 or more if the dog happens to be sick (and this is NOT including the initial purchase price). Hopefully, that won't be the case if you get a pup from a reputable breeder. However, accidents happen and puppies can get into trouble easily. You both should learn dog CPR and have Nutrical (a beef flavored vitamin paste) handy in case your puppy has hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) issues.

JUST DON'T DUDE!!! you guys are not qualified. NFT.

I don't think she'd "punk out" persay, but I just question how much she could give in the limited time she has...that's all.

As for taking the dog with us on weekends....well I'm not sure...we go into a ludicrous amount of stores many Saturdays....I'm not sure how many would even allow us to take a dog in a carrier with us. I suppose that depends on the store.

I've never asked if I could take my babies anywhere. I had one up until last week, and she was in her carrier or doggie stroller and we'd just walk with her. No one noticed her in there so no harm done. I think as long as she is willing to put in her time and so are you, because relationships are partnerships, then you will so enjoy having a yorkie. Once you get one you will never go to another breed again. They are good to nap with, cuddle with, run with, camp with, shop with, kiss with, and everything else there is to do :D

I agree with you. :thumbup: Jim didn't really want a dog in the very beginning but I really wanted a Maltese (well, you know the story lol) and he said ok and said he'd help me with all the work even though he wasn't thrilled with the idea. But once he saw Codie, he was hooked (before we even brought him home!!) LOL :D How could anyone possibly resist Codie's sexy legs? lolol :D

But the point I'm trying to make is Jim wasn't THRILLED with the idea at first but he said he'd support me ALL THE WAY regardless of his feelings because that's what couples do to make each other happy.

I think she was simply advising you not to get a Yorkie just based on the "cute" factor. You did start this thread by asking for advice ...correct?? Having a dog, Yorkie or not, is a huge responsibility not to be taken lightly. They are like children in many ways. Good luck in whatever you decide!! :)

Get a cat.

You still get the cute and cuddly factor -- not to mention powerful personality which, not coincidentally is why many people get Yorkies -- but cats are infinitely more self-sufficient.

1st off, welcome to YT!! You did come to the right place to find great answers.

Your G/F may just be caught up in the cuteness of a Yorkie, you can dress it up and pretty much you have a "baby"

Good things about Yorkies, are, they are small, so when you go away on the weekends, you could take the yorkie with you, they do ride in carriers and they love to go bye bye.

I also work outside the home and my 2 are in a Ex Pen during the day, this is a big pen where your yorkie would have a big enough area to have a bed, pee pad and food and water. She could still get up and stretch and not be cramped up in a small crate.

I don't think I would rule out not getting her one. Maybe if you have some friends who have a small dog, maybe she could doggie sit.
Has she ever had a pet before?

Yorkies need a lot of grooming attention, daily brushing, weekly baths, every 6 weeks they need to go to the groomers. Then you have all the glamor everyone loves when it comes to yorkies (clothes, bows, blankets, toys, etc etc etc.)

Has your G/F been to YT yet? Maybe she should do some research on this subject.

Good luck and I'm sure you will make the right decision.

Good option. :thumbup: If you want a cat, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a Russian Blue. They are BEAUTIFUL, loving, sweet, adorable cats!! They are also a lot more independent. I had one growing up named Smokey and he would sleep on my mother's pillow every night. He drooled just like a dog LOL and he LOVED people!! He was so affectionate and loving ... he was just like a dog in personality.