Yorkshire terriers, more commonly known as “Yorkies,” are one of the most popular dog breeds. Due to their endearing personalities and small size, they are the ideal pet for individuals and families, especially those living urban or suburban lifestyles. Because Yorkies do not shed, their beautiful coat is also hypoallergenic. In addition to this, Yorkies are a highly intelligent breed. They are friendly, playful, and loyal, but also easy to train. Think a Yorkie might be the right choice for your home?
How much are Yorkies? Read on.
The cost of a Yorkie will vary widely depending on the specific dog that you get, but most people spend roughly $2,000 initially from a reputable breeder and a few hundred dollars every year as they care for their new pet. Consider the cost of both bringing a Yorkie home and providing for your new pet’s needs.
How Much Does it Cost to Purchase a Yorkie from a Breeder?
Yorkies range from several hundred dollars to over three thousand dollars depending on many factors including breeder, location, physical characteristics, pedigree, and age.
Different breeders will charge different rates for their dogs. They factor in costs they have incurred such as vaccines, vet costs, c-sections, health screening, litter size, and more. The smaller the dog, the more risk the breeder takes on and the less puppies they have to re-coup their cost. Breeders also vary in the amount of time they spend with their dog. Some un-reputable breeders simply allow their puppies to grow up in a kennel with little interaction. Other breeders spend time training their puppies, offering early litter, grooming, and crate training. Breeders who care about their Yorkies will ensure that they are healthy and loved from birth to the day you purchase them. This care is crucial to ensuring that you are getting a healthy dog who has been well-adjusted to living with people. A Yorkie who has been well cared for is more likely to make the transition to your home smoothly, be easier to train, and have positive interactions with other people.
Breeders that live in an area with a higher population density tend to charge more for their Yorkies. Demand drives prices up, especially in areas that are well-suited for the small Yorkie dog. Breeders in these areas also work with higher overhead costs that then get passed down to their buyers.
What Physical Characteristics Affect the Cost of a Yorkie?
Several physical factors influence a Yorkie’s price. These include size, coat color, and pedigree. The smaller the full-grown size of the Yorkie, the higher the price. Although traditional Yorkies remain popular, Yorkies with unique markings or unusual coat colors tend to be more expensive, especially if they were intentionally bred to have a specific fur pattern.
A Yorkie with a champion bloodlines will be more expensive than a Yorkshire Terrier without. American Kennel Club (AKC)-registered Yorkies also tend to be more expensive than unregistered Yorkies. Registration is of special concern to fellow breeders, but for those looking to purchase a Yorkie as a pet, registration is not as important. This registration can tell show you your Yorkie family tree. Beware of Yorkies that have been too closely cross-bred with Yorkies from the same genetic line. In this case, he will be more prone to health issues. Size, coat color, and pedigree make a puppy more valuable to both a pet owner and fellow breeders.
How Much are Yorkie Puppies?
The age of a Yorkie does affect the price. Younger puppies tend to be more expensive than older dogs. Yorkies can live for up to 15 years, so buying a younger one means you will probably have more time with it. In addition, when you bring a young puppy into your home, you have the opportunity to train it from birth to fit your lifestyle. You may have to un-train some bad habits out of an older dog. Older dogs have an established personality and tend to be more mellow than an energetic puppy.
Are There Cheaper Options than Buying from a Breeder?
Yes! Adoption is a great choice for buying a Yorkie! Not only is it cheaper, but adoption gives a Yorkie a second chance at a loving home. Most adoption agencies charge less than $500 in fees, with some even as low as $100. In addition to this, adoption agencies often hold special savings days to encourage prospective buyers. However, finding a Yorkie at an adoption agency can be difficult. Be patient and check their online database often to be ready when a Yorkie becomes available. Talk to the adoption agency in your area to determine what services such as spaying/neutering, vaccines, and other services they provide for their animals.
What are Some of the Other Costs of Owning a Yorkie?
Initial Costs
Initial costs include things such as a leash, collar, food and water bowls, crate, bed, and toys. Most people find that they need to budget $100-500 for these costs. These things will only need to be purchased again if they break or you choose to replace them. In addition, you will have several initial vet costs. Have your new dog vet checked when you first bring him home. If it has not already been done, consider microchipping and spaying/neutering your Yorkie and ensure that he has all necessary vaccines and health screenings. These medical costs are essential for the health of your Yorkie and the well-being of those he interacts with, including children and other animals.
Microchipping is a one time cost of less than $100. Microchipping is optional, but greatly increases the chances that your dog will be found and returned to you should he get lost.
How Much are Yorkies? On-Going Costs
It is important to consider not only the initial costs but also the ongoing costs of owning a Yorkie. You will want to provide it with a loving home and the physical needs that it has as a living creature. Yorkies will need food, veterinary visits, registration and regular grooming. Below you’ll find a list of ongoing costs to keep in mind as you consider bringing a Yorkie home.
Most Yorkie owners spend around $100 a year for dry food, more if buying wet food or higher end food. Food for a Yorkie varies depending on the brand and the age of the Yorkie. Because of their smaller size and proportional diet, food costs are significantly less than it would be for a larger breed.
Regular vet visits are essential to maintaining the health of your Yorkie and treating any medical issues that come up. Standard checkups are around $100 a visit depending on any vaccines and tests that are run. In most areas of the US, Yorkies will need monthly heartworm preventative. A monthly flea and tick preventative is also a good idea. Yearly, vaccines and vet checks are also important. Depending on where you live, you will also have to register your dog with your county/city. In addition, you may have to plan for other expenses such as dog sitters and training.
Yorkies are prone to patellar luxation, heart valve conditions, and trachea issues. The cost for diagnosing and treating these conditions can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Pet insurance can help cover the medical expenses that you encounter with your Yorkie.
Groomer visits are usually between $50-$100 each time, depending on the services provided. Yorkies have a beautiful coat that requires regular grooming and care. This grooming can be done at home, but it is advisable to take your Yorkie to a groomer regularly to ensure that his coat and nails are well taken care of. This grooming helps to prevent more expensive problems and keeps your Yorkie clean and beautiful.
Are Yorkies Worth the Cost?
Yes! While the cost of owning a Yorkie is significant, it is relatively low compared to other breeds. Be sure to seriously consider the financial investment that you are making before you commit to bringing your Yorkie home. The love, companionship, and joy that a Yorkie unconditionally shows to his people far exceeds the financial cost of having a Yorkie as a part of your family.
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