October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
Entry 430Filed under Breeding

How to Choose a Yorkie Puppy: A 14-Step Buyer’s Guide

Choosing a Yorkie puppy means assessing the breeder as carefully as the puppy. Learn what to ask, which health records to verify, and what to check before committing.
5-minute read By Animalso Team

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choosing a Yorkie starts with choosing a responsible breeder—not picking the smallest or cutest puppy in a litter. Take time to check whether the breed suits your household, verify health-screening records for both parents, observe the puppies and their environment, and read the contract and return terms before paying.

1. Check whether a Yorkie fits your household

Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with a feisty, brave temperament, not simply decorative lap dogs. Consider whether you can provide daily attention, appropriate activity, veterinary care, and patient supervision around children or other pets. A Yorkie’s long coat needs regular maintenance: the American Kennel Club (AKC) describes daily brushing and bathing about weekly for a long coat. AKC Yorkshire Terrier breed information

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

2. Learn the breed’s traits and health-screening guidance

Read the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (YTCA) and AKC descriptions before contacting breeders. These can help you understand the breed’s characteristics and the health evaluations recommended for Yorkies. AKC lists patella evaluation and ophthalmologist evaluation among the breed’s recommended health tests. AKC Yorkshire Terrier breed information

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Decide how you will find your dog

You can pursue a responsible breeder or consider rescue. Do not let urgency or availability alone determine your choice. This guide focuses on breeder selection; rescue organizations have their own screening and adoption processes, so assess those directly if you choose that route.

#1 Best Overall
24-in-1 Dog Vitamins and Supplements 200 Ct Dogs Multivitamin Chewable Contain Chondroitin Probiotics Omega-3 Glucosamine for Dogs Skin Coat Heart Joint Gut Liver Brain Eyes Immune Support - Chicken
  • Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
  • Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
  • Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
  • Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
  • Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy

4. Find breeder leads, then assess each one

A breed-club directory or membership can be a useful starting point, but membership is not proof that a breeder is right for you. Review the YTCA’s current member code and ask each breeder how they follow its principles. YTCA membership and member code

5. Expect the breeder to ask you questions

A careful breeder may ask about your household, daily routine, plans for the puppy, and ability to provide long-term care. This screening helps the breeder consider whether a puppy is likely to suit your home; it is a positive sign, not a guarantee of good breeding practices. AKC also recommends asking potential breeders about their placement process. AKC questions to ask a potential breeder

6. Ask why the litter was bred

Ask what the breeder hoped to achieve with this pairing and what experience they have with the breed. Listen for a considered explanation about the dogs and their qualities, rather than a focus solely on selling puppies. Ask how they stay involved in learning about Yorkshire Terriers.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #2
Zesty Paws Dog Vitamins - Dog Multivitamin Chews, Chicken, 90 Ct
  • 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
  • Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
  • Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
  • Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
  • Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.

7. Ask about both parents and their family histories

Request the sire’s and dam’s names, ages, health histories, and information about health conditions in their relatives. Ask what the breeder knows about inherited problems in the lines and what records they can share. A breeder should be willing to discuss known risks candidly.

8. Verify the parents’ health testing

Ask, “What health screenings have been performed on the parents? Can I see the results?” Request records for both sire and dam, including the recommended patella and ophthalmologist evaluations. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) advises buyers to verify screening results and be cautious when results cannot be confirmed. OFA guidance on interviewing breeders

Health testing gives breeders information to make more informed breeding decisions; it cannot guarantee that a puppy will never develop a health condition. AKC explains this limitation in its guidance on breeder selection. AKC on why breeder selection matters

Rank #3
Dog Vitamins and Supplements 250 Chews - 26 in 1 Dog Multivitamin Soft Chews with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Probiotics, Omega 3 - Hip & Joint, Skin & Coat, Immune Support - Chicken Flavor
  • COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
  • ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
  • SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
  • PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
  • UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.

9. Discuss hereditary risks openly

Ask which inherited conditions the breeder has encountered or screened for and how they decide whether a dog should be bred. The YTCA member code calls for disclosure of serious or disabling hereditary defects. Notice whether the breeder answers directly, explains what is known, and distinguishes documented information from uncertainty. YTCA membership and member code

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

10. Visit and observe the dogs and their setting

Where feasible, see the puppies with their mother and observe the adult dogs’ condition and interactions with people. Look for a clean, safe environment and dogs that appear appropriately cared for. OFA recommends seeing the breeder’s setup and observing how the dogs respond to people. If a visit is not possible, ask why and what verifiable alternatives the breeder can offer; do not treat photos or a video call as equivalent to an in-person assessment.

11. Ask how the puppies are socialized

Ask for specific examples: who handles the puppies, what kinds of people they meet, whether they encounter other dogs appropriately, and which ordinary household sounds they hear. OFA identifies exposure to household noises as a useful topic to discuss. A general claim that puppies are “well socialized” is less informative than a concrete description of their experiences.

Rank #4
Nutramax Cosequin Joint Supplement for Dogs, Chewable Tablets, 132ct
  • Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
  • Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
  • For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
  • Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
  • Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients

12. Review each puppy’s health and veterinary history

Ask what examinations, vaccinations, deworming, or other veterinary care the puppies have received, and when follow-up care is due. Request the records rather than relying only on a verbal summary. Observe the puppy’s overall condition, including coat cleanliness and body condition. Arrange a veterinary examination promptly after bringing the puppy home; AKC outlines basic signs owners can check while emphasizing veterinary care. AKC guidance on checking puppy health

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

13. Read the contract and return terms before paying

Get the agreement in writing and read it before making a payment. Check what the breeder promises about health, what responsibilities fall to you, and what happens if you cannot keep the dog. Ask whether the breeder will take the dog back or help arrange a suitable placement. The YTCA member code calls for written contract terms and disclosure; OFA also recommends discussing contracts and return policies. YTCA membership and member code OFA guidance on interviewing breeders

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

14. Confirm when the puppy can leave and what support follows

Ask the breeder for the planned placement date and why that timing is appropriate. AKC’s general breeder guidance describes eight to twelve weeks as an expected take-home range. The YTCA member code sets a minimum of twelve weeks for puppies leaving breeders who are members; that is a club standard for its members, not a universal legal requirement. AKC questions to ask a potential breeder YTCA membership and member code

Best Value
Omega 3 for Dogs - Fish Oil for Skin & Coat Health, Itch & Allergy Support
  • Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
  • Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
  • Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
  • Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
  • Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.

Before committing, ask how the breeder can be contacted after placement and what support or return commitment they provide. A breeder who expects to remain a resource should be able to explain what that means in practice.

Compare breeders and puppies using the same criteria

There is no validated scoring system in these sources, so do not let an invented numerical score decide for you. Compare each candidate against the same practical questions:

  • Can you verify health-screening results for both parents?
  • Does the breeder understand the breed and discuss risks candidly?
  • Are the puppies and adult dogs in good observable condition, in an appropriate setting?
  • Can the breeder describe specific socialization experiences?
  • Are veterinary and vaccination records available?
  • Are the contract, health terms, and return commitment clear and written?
  • Is the placement timing consistent with the applicable guidance or club standard?
  • Does the breeder’s process—and this puppy’s needs and temperament—fit your household?

Take notes and compare answers before deciding. Registration, a particular coat color, appearance, or unusually small size does not replace evidence of responsible practices.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from Field Notes

  1. Entry 01Disaster Preparedness for Pets: What to Plan and PackBreeding6 min
  2. Entry 02Holiday Pet Safety Tips: How to Keep Dogs and Cats Safe Through the HolidaysBreeding7 min
  3. Entry 03What to Buy for a New Rescue Dog: A First-Week Essentials GuideBreeding3 min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.