Here are some suggestions  for having a fun and gratifying experience while looking for your new family member. Your Yorkie puppy will be with you for the next 15 years or more, so shopping should not be done on impulse.

1. If the breeder has more than 2 types of breeds, that should be a red flag to you, it could be a puppy mill!

2. Ask to see the living conditions that the puppy has been raised in, if the breeder declines to show you, there's another red flag!

3. Ask to see the puppies parents. Does the Dam and Sire look healthy and well cared for? If the breeder does not show you the parents...red flag!

4. Check your desired Yorkie puppies eyes, nose, ears and rear. These are all good indicators of a puppies overall health. If the puppies are not clean or are acting lethargic...red flag!

5. Is the breeder screening you, or will they sell to just anyone with the money?

If the breeder is screening you, don't be offended, it's a good thing. A good breeder cares deeply about their puppies and the kinds of homes they will be going to. You may be asked if you have very small children or large dogs, it's only to protect this toy breed.

6. Does the breeder have all paperwork for this puppy on hand? Such as registration papers, vaccinations and deworming documentation?

7. Does the breeder offer a health guarantee?  If not...really big red flag!

At the very least you should be given a 72 hour health guarantee. This gives you enough time to take the puppy to the vet and if the puppy is ill you can return the puppy to the breeder within that time frame.

Even better would be a one year genetic health guarantee.  If the breeder does not offer a one year genetic health guarantee, simply ask for one in writing, it never hurts to ask and you'll be glad you did.

8. Trust your gut feelings, I find they are rarely wrong.

9. Read, read, read, all you can about the Yorkshire Terrier breed to be sure it is the perfect fit for your family and lifestyle.

10. Lastly, I believe it is NOT safe practice to buy a puppy over the internet by looking at a picture only, would you buy a diamond sight unseen?

Happy shopping and I hope you find a wonderful, happy, healthy new addition to your family that will bring you love, joy and puppy kisses for many years to come!

Please don't buy a puppy from a pet shop, they are keeping the puppy mills in business.

These are only my suggestions and opinions.

Janet Blanchard