Yorkie Prices Guide 2023: A Comprehensive Guide

The Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is a beloved breed with a big personality packed into a tiny package. These charming dogs are known for their long, silky coats, playful spirit, and unwavering loyalty. If you’re considering welcoming a Yorkie into your life, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: how much does a Yorkie cost?

The price of a Yorkie can vary significantly depending on several factors, including breeder reputation, lineage, coat color, and even the dog’s gender. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential aspects of Yorkie pricing, helping you make an informed decision about bringing home your furry companion.

Whether you’re seeking a show-quality Yorkie or a loving pet companion, understanding the cost breakdown will equip you with the knowledge to make a sound financial decision. Let’s delve into the world of Yorkie pricing and explore what influences the cost of these captivating canines.

How Much Does a Yorkie Puppy Cost?

The price of a Yorkie puppy can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The average price for a Yorkie puppy from a reputable breeder is between $1,500 and $3,000.

Several factors can affect the cost of a Yorkie puppy, including:

• Breeder reputation: Reputable breeders invest significant time and resources in breeding healthy and well-socialized Yorkies. They often have waiting lists and charge premium prices to ensure the quality and well-being of their puppies.
• Lineage: Puppies with championship bloodlines or from parents with outstanding show records are typically more expensive. These puppies have a higher potential for competition and may be sought after by serious breeders and show enthusiasts.
• Coat color: Certain Yorkie coat colors, such as blue and gold, are less common and may command a higher price. These rare colors are often considered more desirable by some buyers.
• Gender: In some cases, female Yorkies may be slightly more expensive than males. This is due to their potential for breeding, which can increase their perceived value.
• Location: The cost of living and demand for Yorkies can vary depending on your geographic location. Puppies in urban areas or regions with high demand may be more expensive.

It’s crucial to remember that while price can be a factor, choosing a reputable breeder should always be your top priority. A responsible breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their puppies, providing proper vet care, socialization, and ongoing support to new owners.

What Are the Different Yorkie Prices Based on Factors?

The price of a Yorkie puppy can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, coat color, and gender. Here’s a breakdown of how these factors can influence the cost of a Yorkie puppy:

Factor	Price Range
Reputable breeder	$1,500 – $3,000+
Lineage (championship bloodlines)	$2,500 – $5,000+
Coat color (rare colors like blue and gold)	$2,000 – $4,000+
Gender (female)	May be slightly higher than males
Location (urban areas or high demand)	May be higher than in rural areas

These price ranges are just a general guideline, and the actual cost of a Yorkie puppy can vary depending on specific circumstances.

Remember, the price of a Yorkie puppy is not the only factor to consider. Look for a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health, temperament, and well-being of their puppies. Choose a breeder who is willing to answer your questions, provide health guarantees, and offer ongoing support after you bring your puppy home.

What Are the Costs Involved in Owning a Yorkie?

The initial cost of purchasing a Yorkie puppy is just the beginning. Owning a dog comes with ongoing expenses, such as food, vet care, grooming, and toys. Here’s a breakdown of some of the costs you can expect to incur when owning a Yorkie:

• Food: Yorkies need high-quality dog food that’s formulated for small breeds. You can expect to spend around $20-$40 per month on food, depending on the quality and quantity.
• Vet care: Routine vet checkups, vaccinations, and preventive care are essential for keeping your Yorkie healthy. The cost of vet care can vary depending on your location, but you can expect to spend a few hundred dollars per year.
• Grooming: Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coats. This includes brushing, bathing, and professional haircuts. You can expect to spend around $50-$100 per grooming session, depending on the salon and the length of your Yorkie’s coat.
• Toys and accessories: Yorkies are playful dogs and enjoy having toys to entertain them. You’ll need to budget for toys, beds, leashes, collars, and other accessories.
• Training: Puppy training classes can be beneficial for socialization and basic obedience. You can expect to spend a few hundred dollars for a training course.
• Insurance: Pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills. You can expect to pay a monthly premium for pet insurance, which can vary depending on your Yorkie’s age, breed, and coverage level.

These costs can add up, so it’s important to factor them into your budget before bringing home a Yorkie. You can save money on some of these costs by using generic food brands, grooming your Yorkie at home, and finding affordable training classes.

How Much Does a Yorkie Cost from a Shelter or Rescue?

Adopting a Yorkie from a shelter or rescue organization is a wonderful way to give a dog a loving home. Shelter and rescue dogs typically have a much lower adoption fee than puppies from breeders, often ranging from $100 to $500.

While the adoption fee is much lower than the price of a puppy from a breeder, it’s important to remember that shelter and rescue dogs may require additional vet care. They may have pre-existing medical conditions that require treatment, and you may need to spend money on spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and other preventive care.

Adopting a Yorkie from a shelter or rescue can be a fulfilling experience, and you’ll be giving a deserving dog a second chance at happiness. But be prepared for the possibility of incurring additional vet expenses.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Yorkie Puppy from a Breeder vs. a Shelter?

Choosing between buying a Yorkie puppy from a breeder or adopting one from a shelter is a personal decision that depends on your individual preferences and circumstances. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Buying from a breeder:

Pros:

• You can choose a puppy from a litter with specific traits, such as coat color or temperament.
• Reputable breeders can provide health guarantees and ongoing support after you bring your puppy home.
• Breeders can provide information about the puppy’s lineage and health history.

Cons:

• Puppies from breeders can be more expensive than those from shelters.
• There may be a waiting list to get a puppy from a breeder.
• It’s important to choose a reputable breeder to ensure the puppy’s health and well-being.

Adopting from a shelter:

Pros:

• Adoption fees are typically much lower than the cost of buying a puppy from a breeder.
• You’ll be giving a deserving dog a loving home.
• Shelters often have a variety of dogs to choose from, so you can find a good match for your personality and lifestyle.

Cons:

• Shelter dogs may have pre-existing medical conditions that require treatment.
• You may not know much about a shelter dog’s history or temperament.
• Shelter dogs may require additional training and socialization.

Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your individual circumstances and priorities.

What Are the Costs of Other Yorkie-Related Products?

Besides the initial cost of purchasing a Yorkie puppy and the ongoing expenses of owning a dog, there are also other Yorkie-related products that you may need to budget for. These products can include:

• Grooming tools: Yorkies require regular brushing and bathing, so you’ll need to invest in grooming tools, such as a brush, comb, shampoo, and conditioner.
• Yorkie-specific toys: Yorkies are known for their love of toys, so you’ll need to budget for toys that are safe and appropriate for their size.
• Yorkie-specific clothing: Yorkies are prone to getting cold, so you may need to purchase clothing to keep them warm during the winter months.

These additional costs may seem insignificant, but they can add up over time, so it’s important to factor them into your budget when considering owning a Yorkie.

Where Can I Find a Reputable Yorkie Breeder?

Finding a reputable Yorkie breeder is essential for ensuring that you get a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Here are some tips for finding a reputable Yorkie breeder:

• Start your search early: Yorkie puppies are in high demand, so it’s important to start your search early. Give yourself plenty of time to research breeders and find the right fit.
• Ask for recommendations: Talk to your vet, friends, or other dog owners for recommendations on reputable breeders.
• Research online: Search online for Yorkie breeders in your area and read reviews from previous clients.
• Visit the breeder: Once you’ve identified a few breeders, visit them in person to see their facilities and meet their dogs.
• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder questions about their breeding practices, health guarantees, and experience.
• Look for signs of a reputable breeder: Reputable breeders will be willing to show you their breeding facilities, answer all of your questions, and provide health guarantees for their puppies. They will also have a clear understanding of the Yorkie breed and will be able to provide you with information about the breed’s temperament, health concerns, and care requirements.
• Avoid puppy mills: Puppy mills are facilities that mass-produce puppies for profit, often at the expense of the animals’ health and well-being. Reputable breeders will never sell their puppies to a pet store or online retailer.

Finding a reputable breeder is important, but remember that the price of a Yorkie puppy is not the only factor to consider. Look for a breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their puppies and is willing to provide ongoing support after you bring your puppy home.

How Can I Save Money on Yorkie Costs?

Owning a Yorkie can be expensive, but there are a few ways you can save money on Yorkie costs. Here are a few tips:

• Consider adopting a Yorkie from a shelter: Adopting a Yorkie from a shelter or rescue organization is a great way to save money on the initial cost of purchasing a puppy.
• Shop for food deals: You can save money on dog food by shopping for deals and coupons at pet stores or online.
• Learn to groom your Yorkie at home: You can save money on grooming by learning to brush and bathe your Yorkie at home. However, you may still need to take your Yorkie to a professional groomer for haircuts.
• Consider DIY training: There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you train your Yorkie yourself. You can also take advantage of free training classes offered by local animal shelters or rescue organizations.
• Purchase pet insurance: While pet insurance can add to your monthly expenses, it can help cover unexpected vet bills, which can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

While saving money on Yorkie costs is important, don’t compromise the quality of care you provide your dog. Invest in high-quality food, regular vet care, and appropriate toys and accessories.

What Are the Hidden Costs of Owning a Yorkie?

Beyond the obvious costs of food, vet care, and grooming, there are some hidden costs associated with owning a Yorkie that you may not immediately consider. These costs can include:

• Emergency vet care: Even with preventative care, accidents and illnesses can happen. Emergency vet care can be expensive, so it’s essential to have a plan in place for unexpected vet bills.
• Dog walker or pet sitter: If you work long hours or travel frequently, you may need to hire a dog walker or pet sitter to care for your Yorkie while you’re away.
• Doggy daycare: If you need to leave your Yorkie home alone for extended periods, doggy daycare can be a good option to provide socialization and exercise.
• Boarding: If you’re going on vacation, you may need to board your Yorkie at a kennel.

These hidden costs can add up, so it’s essential to factor them into your budget when considering owning a Yorkie.

How Much Does a Yorkie Cost in the UK?

The cost of a Yorkie in the UK can vary depending on the same factors as in the US, including the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, coat color, and gender. However, the average price for a Yorkie puppy from a reputable breeder in the UK is typically between £1,000 and £2,000.

The cost of owning a Yorkie in the UK can also vary depending on the region and the specific needs of your dog. As with any pet, it’s essential to budget for food, vet care, grooming, and other expenses.

How Much Does a Yorkie Cost in Canada?

The cost of a Yorkie in Canada can vary depending on the same factors as in the US and the UK, including the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, coat color, and gender. The average price for a Yorkie puppy from a reputable breeder in Canada is typically between C$1,500 and C$3,000.

The cost of owning a Yorkie in Canada can also vary depending on the region and the specific needs of your dog. As with any pet, it’s essential to budget for food, vet care, grooming, and other expenses.

Is a Yorkie Right for Me?

Before you bring a Yorkie into your home, it’s essential to consider if this breed is the right fit for your lifestyle. Yorkies are affectionate and playful dogs, but they require a lot of attention and care. Here are some things to consider when deciding if a Yorkie is right for you:

• Time commitment: Yorkies require regular grooming, training, and playtime. Are you willing to commit the time and energy necessary to care for a Yorkie?
• Lifestyle: Yorkies are active dogs that need regular exercise. Do you have an active lifestyle that can accommodate a Yorkie’s energy levels?
• Living situation: Yorkies are small dogs, but they still need space to run and play. Is your home large enough to accommodate a Yorkie?
• Budget: Owning a Yorkie can be expensive. Are you prepared to handle the costs of food, vet care, grooming, and other expenses?

If you’re willing to commit the time, energy, and resources, owning a Yorkie can be a very rewarding experience. These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and playful companions that can bring joy to your life for many years to come.

Yorkie Price Table Summary

Factor	Price Range
Reputable breeder (US)	$1,500 – $3,000+
Lineage (championship bloodlines)	$2,500 – $5,000+
Coat color (rare colors like blue and gold)	$2,000 – $4,000+
Gender (female)	May be slightly higher than males
Location (urban areas or high demand)	May be higher than in rural areas
Shelter or rescue	$100 – $500+
Reputable breeder (UK)	£1,000 – £2,000+
Reputable breeder (Canada)	C$1,500 – C$3,000+

FAQ

How much does a Yorkie cost without papers?

A Yorkie without papers, also known as a “pet quality” Yorkie, may be available for a lower price than a puppy with papers from a reputable breeder. The price can range from a few hundred dollars to around $1,000. However, it’s crucial to be cautious when purchasing a Yorkie without papers. You may not be able to verify the puppy’s lineage, health history, or the breeder’s reputation. It’s always recommended to research the breeder thoroughly and ask for health guarantees before bringing home a puppy without papers.

Are Yorkies expensive to maintain?

Yorkies are relatively expensive to maintain compared to some other dog breeds. Their long, silky coats require regular grooming, which can add up in costs. Additionally, they have a higher risk of certain health problems, which can lead to expensive vet bills. However, with proper care, Yorkies can live long and healthy lives. It’s crucial to factor in the ongoing expenses of owning a Yorkie before making the decision to bring one home.

Do Yorkies need a lot of exercise?

While Yorkies are small dogs, they still need regular exercise. They are active and playful dogs that enjoy going for walks, playing fetch, and engaging in other activities. A daily walk of at least 30 minutes is recommended, along with playtime indoors. Yorkies also benefit from mental stimulation through games and training.

How long do Yorkies live?

Yorkies have an average lifespan of 12-15 years. However, with proper care and nutrition, they can live even longer. It’s essential to provide regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and preventive care to help your Yorkie live a long and healthy life.

Are Yorkies good for first-time dog owners?

Yorkies can be good for first-time dog owners, but it’s essential to be prepared for their specific needs. They require regular grooming, training, and socialization. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, Yorkies can be well-behaved and loving companions. However, if you’re not sure if you’re ready for the commitment required for a Yorkie, it may be wise to consider a different breed.

What are some common health problems in Yorkies?

Yorkies are prone to certain health problems, including:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar is a common problem in Yorkies, especially puppies.
• Patellar luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Portosystemic shunt: A condition where blood bypasses the liver.
• Dental problems: Yorkies are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.
• Eye problems: Yorkies can develop various eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts.

It’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for these health problems and provide regular vet checkups to help prevent and treat any potential health issues.

What are some tips for training a Yorkie?

Yorkies can be intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn. Here are some tips for training a Yorkie:

• Start training early: Begin training your Yorkie puppy as soon as you bring them home.
• Be consistent: Use positive reinforcement and be consistent with your commands and training methods.
• Use treats and praise: Reward your Yorkie with treats and praise when they perform a desired behavior.
• Keep training sessions short and fun: Yorkies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions short and engaging.
• Socialize your Yorkie: Socialization is crucial for Yorkies, as it can help prevent fear and aggression. Expose your Yorkie to various people, places, and dogs from a young age.

With patience and consistency, you can train your Yorkie to be a well-behaved companion.