How We Raise Happy, Healthy Yorkshire Terrier Puppies at Essence of Grace Yorkies
At Essence Of Grace Yorkies, we are dedicated to raising Yorkshire Terrier puppies with the utmost care and attention to health, temperament, and breed standards. Our puppies are an investment, not only in their future families’ lives but also in the quality of the breed. We know our Yorkies aren’t the cheapest, and here’s why: we put significant resources, time, and love into every step of our breeding process. From health testing to high-quality diets, we make sure our puppies have the best possible start in life.
Why Our Yorkie Puppies Aren’t Cheap – Quality Comes First
Raising a Yorkshire Terrier puppy responsibly requires more than just time; it’s a commitment to excellence that involves comprehensive health care, precise timing, and continuous attention. Below, we share some of the essential components of our breeding process and the investments we make to ensure that each puppy is healthy, happy, and ready for their new home.
1. Health Testing and Genetic Screening
Health testing is fundamental to our breeding program. We go beyond standard requirements to ensure our breeding dogs are healthy and free from genetic issues.
Embark Genetic Testing: Every parent undergoes a $130 Embark genetic screening to ensure they are clear of any hereditary diseases that could affect their puppies.
OFA Patella Certification: Each dog receives an OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella evaluation for $80 to prevent issues with knee stability.
OFA CAER Eye Certification: We also complete an OFA eye exam, which costs $50, to confirm our dogs have healthy, well-functioning eyes.
2. Progesterone Testing for Optimal Breeding Timing
Breeding at the right time is essential to producing healthy puppies. We run at least three progesterone tests for each dam during her heat cycle at $63 each to identify the optimal breeding day. This careful timing increases the chance of a successful, healthy litter.
3. Stud Services for Quality Bloodlines
To maintain the high standards of our program, we sometimes use outside studs. This can cost up to $1,500 but allows us to introduce new genetics into our lines while maintaining our focus on health, conformation, and temperament.
4. High-Quality Diet and Supplementation
A healthy dam produces healthy puppies, which is why our mothers are given a top-notch diet and supplements.
Premium Dog Food: We feed our dogs a high-quality diet, costing $70 per bag, to ensure they receive all the essential nutrients for strong bones, coat health, and energy.
Folic Acid: We supplement with folic acid at $30 per regimen, which promotes healthy fetal development.
Deworming: Both moms and puppies are dewormed to ensure they are free from parasites, costing $35 per cycle.
5. Veterinary Care During Pregnancy and Whelping
Throughout pregnancy, our dams receive exceptional veterinary care to monitor the health and development of the puppies.
Ultrasounds: We perform an ultrasound around day 30 of pregnancy ($65) to confirm pregnancy and check on the puppies’ development.
X-rays: Around day 55, we do an x-ray ($163) to determine the number of puppies and anticipate any potential complications during whelping.
C-Section (if needed): If a C-section is necessary, the cost can range from $700 to $7,000, depending on the timing and circumstances. Our primary goal is always to ensure the safety of both the mother and her puppies.
6. Care for Puppies After Birth
Once the puppies are born, we continue to provide comprehensive care to set them up for success.
Vaccinations and Vet Checks: By the time our puppies go to their forever homes, they will have received their first vaccines and undergone regular health checks, totaling around $600.
Socialization and Preparation: During the first 12 weeks, we work on socializing our puppies to ensure they are comfortable around people and other dogs. This makes the transition into their new homes smoother and helps create well-rounded adult dogs.
7. Ongoing Investment Beyond the Basics
Our expenses don’t stop with these essentials. We continually invest in each litter, from specialized supplies to extra vet visits if needed. We don’t cut corners; every puppy receives top-quality care, and we go above and beyond to ensure their health and happiness.
Join Our Waitlist for Future Litters
While we don’t currently have puppies available, we encourage potential owners to join our waitlist for upcoming litters. When you choose Essence Of Grace Yorkies, you’re not just buying a puppy—you’re investing in a healthy, well-adjusted family member raised with dedication and compassion. We’re excited to connect with future owners who appreciate our commitment to quality and want a Yorkshire Terrier puppy that reflects the best of the breed.