Ultimate Guide to Yorkie Puppies for Sale: Everything You Need to Know

What is the Average Price of a Yorkie Puppy?

The average price of a Yorkie puppy can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more,
depending on various factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s
lineage, and the coat color. It’s crucial to understand that you’re not just
buying a pet; you’re investing in a companion for years to come.

Factors that influence the price include the breeder’s reputation, the
puppy’s lineage, coat color, and health guarantees offered. Reputable breeders
often invest significant resources in providing high-quality care and health
testing for their Yorkies.

You’ll likely encounter a wide range of prices when searching for Yorkie
puppies, and it’s essential to be cautious of extremely low prices.
Unusually low prices might indicate potential problems with the puppy’s health
or ethical concerns regarding the breeder.

Always prioritize a responsible breeder who puts the well-being of their
Yorkies first. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the puppy’s health,
lineage, and the breeder’s practices.

Remember that adopting a Yorkie is a long-term commitment, and the cost goes
beyond the initial purchase price. You’ll need to factor in ongoing expenses
like food, vet care, toys, and grooming.

How Do I Find a Reputable Yorkie Breeder?

Finding a reputable Yorkie breeder is essential to ensure you’re getting a
healthy and well-socialized puppy. Avoid backyard breeders or puppy mills,
which prioritize profit over the well-being of their dogs.

Here are some tips for locating a reputable breeder:

• Start with recommendations: Ask your veterinarian, friends,
  or family members who own Yorkies for breeder recommendations.
• Research online: Look for reputable breeder associations
  like the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (YTCA) or the American Kennel
  Club (AKC).
• Visit the breeder’s facility: A responsible breeder will
  welcome you to their home or facility and allow you to interact with the
  puppies and parents.
• Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask about the breeder’s
  breeding practices, health testing, and socialization procedures.
• Look for signs of a healthy puppy: A healthy Yorkie
  puppy will have bright eyes, a clean nose and ears, and a playful and
  energetic demeanor.
• Be wary of red flags: Avoid breeders who are unwilling to
  answer your questions, who have multiple litters of puppies available at
  once, or who seem more interested in selling than in the well-being of
  their dogs.

Remember, finding a reputable breeder is a vital step in bringing a Yorkie
puppy into your home. Don’t rush the process and take your time to research
and choose a breeder who aligns with your values.

What are Some Common Health Issues in Yorkies?

While Yorkies are generally healthy dogs, they are prone to certain health
conditions. It’s important to understand these potential issues and ask the
breeder about their health testing practices.

Some common health issues in Yorkies include:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels, especially in
  puppies.
• Patellar luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap, a common
  orthopedic condition.
• Portosystemic shunt: A condition where blood bypasses
  the liver, leading to potential health problems.
• Dental problems: Yorkies are prone to dental issues due
  to their small teeth and jaw size.
• Eye problems: Conditions like cherry eye (protrusion of
  the gland in the third eyelid) and glaucoma can occur.
• Skin allergies: Yorkies can be susceptible to allergies,
  often triggered by food, environmental factors, or parasites.

Reputable breeders will screen their breeding dogs for these conditions and
provide health guarantees for their puppies. They’ll also be able to offer
guidance on preventing and managing potential health issues.

Early detection and preventative care are crucial in managing Yorkie health
issues. Regular vet checkups, proper nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle can
help minimize the risk of these conditions.

What is the Best Age to Get a Yorkie Puppy?

The best age to get a Yorkie puppy is typically between 8 and 12 weeks old.
By this age, puppies have had time to develop their immune system and have
been weaned from their mother.

Before you bring your puppy home, ensure they have received their initial
vaccinations and have been dewormed. The breeder should provide you with
documentation of these procedures.

While it’s tempting to get a puppy as young as possible, waiting until they’re
a bit older allows them to have a stronger immune system and learn basic
socialization skills from their littermates and mother.

Getting a Yorkie puppy at this age also gives you enough time to prepare
your home and establish a routine before your new furry friend arrives.

Remember that bringing a puppy home is a significant adjustment for both you
and your new pet. It’s important to be patient and consistent with training
and socialization.

How Do I Know if a Yorkie is Right for Me?

Yorkies are affectionate, playful, and intelligent dogs, making them
popular companions. However, it’s essential to consider whether their
personality and needs align with your lifestyle.

Here are some factors to consider:

• Energy levels: Yorkies are relatively active dogs that
  require daily walks and playtime.
• Training needs: Yorkies are intelligent but can be
  stubborn. They require consistent training and socialization to prevent
  behavioral issues.
• Grooming requirements: Yorkies have long, silky hair that
  needs regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent mats and
  tangles.
• Lifestyle: Consider your daily routine, living space, and
  tolerance for dog hair before bringing a Yorkie home.
• Commitment: Owning a Yorkie is a long-term commitment. You
  need to be prepared for the financial and time investment involved in
  providing proper care.

If you’re looking for a small, affectionate dog that’s easy to train and
enjoy being around people, a Yorkie might be a good fit for you. However,
it’s essential to assess whether you can meet their needs before bringing one
home.

If you’re unsure, consider spending time with Yorkies owned by friends or
family members to experience their personality firsthand.

What Should I Look for in a Yorkie Puppy?

When choosing a Yorkie puppy, there are several things to consider to ensure
you’re getting a healthy and well-adjusted companion.

Here are some key characteristics to look for:

• Appearance: A healthy Yorkie puppy will have bright eyes, a
  clean nose and ears, and a shiny coat. Their body should be well-proportioned
  and have a playful and energetic demeanor.
• Temperament: Look for a puppy that is curious, playful, and
  approachable. They should be comfortable interacting with people and other
  dogs.
• Socialization: Ensure the puppy has been properly
  socialized. They should be comfortable with different people, environments,
  and noises.
• Health: The breeder should be able to provide health
  records and documentation of any health testing performed on the puppy and
  parents.

It’s also essential to trust your instincts. If something feels off about
the breeder or the puppy, don’t hesitate to walk away. There are many
responsible breeders out there who prioritize the well-being of their dogs.

How Do I Prepare My Home for a Yorkie Puppy?

Bringing a Yorkie puppy home requires some preparation to ensure a smooth
transition and a safe environment for your new furry friend.

Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

• Puppy-proof your home: Remove any potential hazards, such
  as toxic plants, medications, and small objects that could be swallowed.
• Set up a designated sleeping area: Choose a comfortable
  and quiet space for your puppy’s bed, crate, or playpen.
• Get essential supplies: Stock up on food bowls, water
  bowls, a collar and leash, toys, and a comfortable bed.
• Start potty training: Establish a consistent potty
  training routine, including designated potty areas and frequent breaks.
• Choose a veterinarian: Find a veterinarian who specializes
  in small breed dogs and schedule a puppy checkup.

Remember that bringing a puppy home is a significant adjustment for them.
Be patient, consistent, and provide plenty of love and attention to help
them settle in.

What are the Costs Associated with Owning a Yorkie?

Owning a Yorkie involves ongoing expenses beyond the initial purchase price.
It’s essential to factor in these costs to ensure you can provide adequate
care for your dog.

Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

Expense	Estimated Cost
Food	$30-$60 per month
Vet care (annual checkups, vaccinations, etc.)	$300-$500 per year
Grooming	$40-$80 per month
Toys and accessories	$50-$100 per year
Pet insurance (optional)	$20-$50 per month

These costs can vary depending on your location, the quality of food and
vet care you choose, and any health issues your Yorkie may develop. It’s
always a good idea to budget for unexpected vet bills.

While owning a Yorkie can be a rewarding experience, it’s essential to be
financially prepared to provide them with the best possible care throughout
their lives.

What are the Benefits of Owning a Yorkie?

Yorkies are known for their affectionate personalities, playful nature, and
intelligence. They make wonderful companions for people of all ages and
lifestyle.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Yorkie:

• Affectionate and loyal: Yorkies are known for their
  loving and loyal nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and
  enjoy being around people.
• Playful and energetic: Yorkies have a playful and
  energetic nature. They enjoy interactive games, walks, and playtime.
• Intelligent and trainable: Yorkies are intelligent dogs
  that are eager to please their owners. They are relatively easy to train
  with patience and positive reinforcement.
• Small size: Yorkies are small dogs, making them a good
  choice for people with limited space or those who prefer a smaller
  companion.
• Low-shedding: Yorkies have a hypoallergenic coat that
  sheds minimally, making them a good choice for people with allergies.

Overall, Yorkies are wonderful companions that can bring joy and love to
your life. They are relatively easy to care for and make great family pets
with the right training and socialization.

What are Some Tips for Training a Yorkie Puppy?

Training a Yorkie puppy is essential to establish good manners and prevent
behavioral problems. Yorkies are intelligent and eager to please, making
them relatively easy to train with patience and consistency.

Here are some tips for training a Yorkie puppy:

• Start early: Begin training as soon as you bring your
  puppy home. The earlier you start, the easier it will be to establish good
  habits.
• Use positive reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats,
  praise, and affection when they perform the desired behavior.
• Be consistent: Use the same commands and routines
  consistently to avoid confusion.
• Keep training sessions short: Short, frequent training
  sessions are more effective than long, drawn-out ones.
• Socialize your puppy: Expose your puppy to different
  people, animals, and environments to help them develop a well-rounded
  personality.

Remember to be patient and understanding with your puppy. They are still
learning and may make mistakes. Be consistent with your training and
reward their efforts, and you’ll be well on your way to having a well-behaved
Yorkie.

How Do I Groom a Yorkie?

Yorkies have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to prevent mats
and tangles. Proper grooming is essential for maintaining their health and
keeping them looking their best.

Here are some tips for grooming a Yorkie:

• Brush regularly: Brush your Yorkie’s hair daily to prevent
  mats and tangles. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush to detangle the hair.
• Bathe as needed: Bathe your Yorkie every 4-6 weeks or as
  needed to keep their coat clean. Use a shampoo and conditioner formulated
  for dogs.
• Trim nails: Trim your Yorkie’s nails every 2-4 weeks to
  prevent them from growing too long and causing discomfort.
• Clean ears: Clean your Yorkie’s ears regularly with a
  cotton ball and ear cleaner.
• Brush teeth: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly to prevent
  plaque buildup and dental problems.

If you’re not comfortable grooming your Yorkie yourself, you can take them to
a professional groomer. They can provide a full groom, including bathing,
brushing, trimming, and nail clipping.

What are Some Common Yorkie Grooming Styles?

Yorkies are known for their versatility in grooming styles. Here are a few
popular options:

• Puppy cut: This is a short, all-over clip that is
  easy to maintain. It’s a popular choice for puppies and older Yorkies
  who may have difficulty managing longer hair.
• Show cut: This is a traditional grooming style that is
  used for show dogs. It involves a long, flowing coat that is
  carefully trimmed and styled.
• Teddy bear cut: This style resembles a teddy bear, with
  a longer coat on the head, legs, and body, and a shorter coat on the
  back.
• Sporting cut: This style is similar to the puppy cut,
  but with a longer coat on the legs and tail. It’s a good choice for
  active Yorkies.

Ultimately, the best grooming style for your Yorkie will depend on their
personality, lifestyle, and your personal preferences.

What are Some Tips for Socializing a Yorkie Puppy?

Socializing your Yorkie puppy is crucial for their well-being and
development. A well-socialized Yorkie will be more confident, outgoing, and
adaptable to different situations.

Here are some tips for socializing your Yorkie puppy:

• Start early: Begin socializing your puppy as soon as
  you bring them home. The earlier you start, the easier it will be for
  them to adjust to different people, animals, and environments.
• Expose them to different people: Introduce your puppy
  to a variety of people, including men, women, children, and people with
  disabilities. Encourage them to interact with people in a positive and
  gentle manner.
• Introduce them to other dogs: Allow your puppy to play
  with other well-socialized dogs in a controlled environment.
• Take them to different places: Expose your puppy to
  different environments, such as parks, stores, and public transportation.
• Make it a positive experience: Ensure every
  socialization experience is positive and rewarding for your puppy.

Remember to be patient and understanding with your puppy. They are still
learning and may be overwhelmed in new situations. It’s important to
introduce them to new things gradually and in a safe and controlled
environment.

What are Some Tips for Feeding a Yorkie Puppy?

Feeding your Yorkie puppy a balanced diet is essential for their growth,
development, and overall health. Yorkies are prone to certain health
issues related to their small size, so choosing the right food is
crucial.

Here are some tips for feeding a Yorkie puppy:

• Choose a high-quality puppy food: Look for a food that
  is specifically formulated for small breed puppies and contains high-quality
  ingredients, such as real meat, fruits, and vegetables.
• Feed them several meals a day: Puppy’s need to eat
  more frequently than adult dogs. Start with 4-6 meals a day and gradually
  reduce the number of meals as they grow.
• Follow feeding guidelines: Follow the feeding
  guidelines on the food bag. The amount of food you give your puppy will
  depend on their age, weight, and activity level.
• Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to obesity,
  which can increase the risk of health problems in Yorkies.
• Provide fresh water: Ensure your puppy has access to
  fresh, clean water at all times.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Yorkie
puppy and to monitor their growth and development. They can help you choose
the right food and adjust their diet as needed.

What are Some Common Yorkie Behavior Issues?

While Yorkies are generally well-behaved dogs, they can develop certain
behavioral issues, such as:

• Barking: Yorkies are known for their loud barks. This
  can be a problem if they bark excessively, especially in apartment
  settings.
• Separation anxiety: Yorkies can develop separation
  anxiety when left alone for extended periods. This can manifest as
  destructive behavior or excessive barking.
• Aggression: While not common, Yorkies can exhibit
  aggression towards other dogs or people if they are not properly
  socialized or trained.
• Destructive behavior: Yorkies may engage in destructive
  behavior, such as chewing or digging, if they are bored or lack
  sufficient mental and physical stimulation.

If you are experiencing behavioral issues with your Yorkie, it’s essential
to consult with a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They
can help you understand the underlying cause of the problem and develop a
plan to address it.

What are Some Tips for Exercising a Yorkie?

While Yorkies are small dogs, they still need daily exercise to stay
healthy and happy. Exercise helps them maintain a healthy weight, reduce
stress, and prevent boredom.

Here are some tips for exercising a Yorkie:

• Daily walks: Take your Yorkie for two 15-20 minute
  walks per day. This will help them get their daily exercise and
  stimulate their senses.
• Playtime: Engage your Yorkie in interactive games,
  such as fetch, hide-and-seek, or tug-of-war. This will provide
  mental and physical stimulation.
• Training: Training sessions can be a great way to
  exercise your Yorkie’s mind and body.
• Indoor activities: If you live in an apartment or have
  limited outdoor space, you can provide exercise indoors with toys,
  puzzles, and interactive games.

Remember to adjust your Yorkie’s exercise routine based on their age, health
condition, and weather. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the
appropriate exercise level for your dog.

Table summarizing the article

Topic	Key Points
Average Price	$1,000-$3,000+, depending on breeder, lineage, color, and health guarantees.
Finding a Reputable Breeder	Seek recommendations, research online, visit facilities, ask questions, and look for signs of healthy puppies.
Common Health Issues	Hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, dental problems, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Best Age to Get a Puppy	8-12 weeks old, after vaccinations and deworming.
Is a Yorkie Right for You?	Consider energy levels, training needs, grooming requirements, lifestyle, and commitment.
What to Look for in a Puppy	Appearance, temperament, socialization, and health records.
Preparing Your Home	Puppy-proof, set up sleeping area, get supplies, start potty training, and choose a veterinarian.
Costs of Owning a Yorkie	Food, vet care, grooming, toys, and optional pet insurance.
Benefits of Owning a Yorkie	Affectionate, playful, intelligent, small size, and low-shedding.
Training Tips	Start early, use positive reinforcement, be consistent, keep sessions short, and socialize.
Grooming Tips	Brush regularly, bathe as needed, trim nails, clean ears, and brush teeth.
Popular Grooming Styles	Puppy cut, show cut, teddy bear cut, and sporting cut.
Socialization Tips	Start early, expose to different people and dogs, take to different places, and make it positive.
Feeding Tips	Choose high-quality puppy food, feed multiple meals, follow guidelines, avoid overfeeding, and provide fresh water.
Common Behavior Issues	Barking, separation anxiety, aggression, and destructive behavior.
Exercise Tips	Daily walks, playtime, training, and indoor activities.

FAQ

This comprehensive guide covers essential aspects of Yorkie puppy ownership,
from finding a reputable breeder to grooming and training. Remember to
prioritize responsible breeding practices, understand potential health
issues, and provide your Yorkie with a loving and supportive environment.