The Health Testing Process for Yorkshire Terrier Parents: Ensuring Healthy Puppies

At Essence Of Grace Yorkies, we’re dedicated to producing healthy, happy, and well-adjusted Yorkshire Terrier puppies. Our health testing process goes beyond the basics to provide assurance that each puppy is bred from parents with excellent health credentials. This commitment helps ensure that our puppies not only meet the breed standard but are also free from many common genetic issues, giving you a strong, healthy companion for years to come.

Why We Prioritize Health Testing for Yorkshire Terrier Parents

Health testing is an essential part of responsible breeding. By screening our breeding dogs for potential health issues, we make sure that only the healthiest parents are chosen to produce puppies. This process, from genetic testing to annual recertification, helps reduce the risk of passing down genetic disorders and ensures our dogs’ long-term health.

We understand that Yorkshire Terriers, like any breed, can be predisposed to certain health issues. To address this, we focus on rigorous health screenings, including genetic tests and orthopedic and eye exams, so each puppy we place is as healthy as possible.

Our Health Testing Process at Essence Of Grace Yorkies

Here’s a look at our comprehensive health testing approach, from genetic screening to ongoing annual exams.

1. Early Genetic Screening (Embark Testing)

The first health test we conduct is an Embark genetic screening. This test is crucial for identifying potential carriers of genetic conditions common in Yorkshire Terriers. While we only conduct this test on potential keepers (future breeding candidates) at three weeks old, it provides essential insights into their genetic makeup. For puppies going to pet homes, we rely on the fact that both parents were tested before breeding, ensuring they don’t carry heritable health risks.

2. Orthopedic Testing (OFA Patella Certification)

When our Yorkie keepers reach one year old, they undergo OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) patella examinations. Yorkshire Terriers can sometimes be prone to luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. By certifying our breeding Yorkies through OFA, we help prevent this condition from affecting future puppies. This certification gives us and our puppy owners peace of mind, knowing our dogs are in top orthopedic health.

3. Eye Health Testing (OFA CAER Exams)

Healthy eyes are critical for Yorkshire Terriers, so we conduct OFA CAER (Companion Animal Eye Registry) eye exams when our keepers turn a year old. We prioritize regular eye exams, re-certifying each parent annually until their breeding career is over. This approach minimizes the risk of inherited eye issues, keeping our Yorkies’ vision clear and strong.

Beyond the Basics: Our Commitment to Quality

Our dedication to health testing doesn’t stop at basic exams. We invest significantly in every litter, ensuring that each Yorkshire Terrier puppy we produce has the best start in life. From high-quality food to prenatal care, every decision is made with the health and well-being of our puppies in mind. Here’s an overview of our investments:

• Nutrition: Our breeding dogs receive a high-quality diet, including folic acid supplements and carefully selected food to support pregnancy and lactation.

• Pregnancy Care: We use progesterone testing for optimal breeding timing, and each dam undergoes ultrasound and X-rays to monitor her health and the puppies’ growth.

• Vet Care: Each puppy receives vaccines, deworming, and thorough vet checks before going to their new homes.

Why Health Testing Matters to Us

At Essence Of Grace Yorkies, we’re not just breeding Yorkies—we’re nurturing future family members. Our health testing process, combined with our commitment to breed quality and care, ensures that each puppy we produce is a joy to own. We aim to place puppies that not only meet the Yorkshire Terrier standard but are also genetically sound, offering a long-lasting companionship. By being on our waitlist, you’re choosing a healthy, happy Yorkie bred with care and dedication.

This process and investment in our breeding dogs and puppies are reflected in our pricing, which supports the high standards we maintain. Our Yorkies are not just pets—they’re a result of careful planning, dedication to the breed, and a genuine love for Yorkshire Terriers. If you’re ready for a well-bred, health-tested Yorkshire Terrier, consider joining our waitlist for upcoming litters.