Yorkie Breeding: A Comprehensive Guide to Successfully Breeding Yorkshire Terriers

Breeding Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as Yorkies, can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning, dedication, and a thorough understanding of the breed’s specific needs and potential health issues. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting suitable breeding pairs to caring for the newborn puppies. Remember, responsible breeding prioritizes the health and well-being of both the mother and the puppies above all else.

## Is Yorkie Breeding Right for You?

Before embarking on this journey, seriously consider whether you’re equipped to handle the responsibilities of breeding. Here are some crucial questions to ask yourself:

* **Do you have the resources (time, money, space) to care for a pregnant dog and a litter of puppies?** This includes vet visits, specialized food, potential emergency C-sections, and providing a safe and clean environment.
* **Are you prepared to deal with potential complications during pregnancy, labor, and delivery?** Yorkies are a small breed and can be prone to complications requiring veterinary intervention.
* **Can you afford genetic testing to screen for hereditary health issues?** This is essential for minimizing the risk of passing on genetic diseases to the puppies.
* **Are you willing to thoroughly screen potential buyers to ensure the puppies go to loving and responsible homes?** This is arguably the most important aspect of responsible breeding.
* **Are you prepared to keep puppies that don’t find homes?** You may need to care for them for an extended period.
* **Do you have a strong understanding of canine genetics and reproductive health?** If not, are you willing to learn from experienced breeders or a veterinarian?
* **Are you emotionally prepared for the possibility of losing a puppy or the mother during pregnancy or delivery?**

If you cannot confidently answer yes to all these questions, breeding Yorkies might not be the right choice for you. Consider exploring other ways to contribute to the breed, such as volunteering at a Yorkie rescue or supporting ethical breeders.

## Step 1: Selecting the Right Breeding Pair

The foundation of a successful breeding program lies in selecting healthy and well-tempered breeding dogs. Avoid breeding just any two Yorkies; carefully evaluate their lineage, health, and temperament.

**1.1 Pedigree Analysis:**

* **Research the pedigree:** Obtain the pedigrees of both the male (sire) and female (dam) you’re considering. Look for champion bloodlines, longevity, and a lack of health problems in their ancestry. Reputable breeders meticulously track their dogs’ lineages.
* **Avoid inbreeding:** Inbreeding increases the risk of genetic disorders. Aim for a low coefficient of inbreeding (COI). Online tools can help you calculate the COI based on pedigree information.

**1.2 Health Testing:**

* **Genetic testing:** This is non-negotiable. Yorkies are prone to several genetic conditions, including:
* **Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):** A degenerative eye disease leading to blindness.
* **Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease:** A hip joint disorder causing lameness.
* **Patellar Luxation:** Dislocation of the kneecap.
* **Tracheal Collapse:** Weakening of the trachea, leading to breathing difficulties.
* **Hypoglycemia:** Low blood sugar, particularly in puppies.
* **Portosystemic Shunt (PSS):** Abnormal blood flow around the liver.

Ensure both the sire and dam have been tested for these conditions and are clear or, at the very least, are not both carriers of the same recessive gene. A carrier bred to a carrier will produce affected puppies.
* **Veterinary Examination:** A thorough veterinary examination is crucial. This should include:
* **Physical Exam:** Assessing overall health, conformation, and any visible abnormalities.
* **Cardiac Evaluation:** Checking for heart murmurs or other heart conditions.
* **Eye Examination:** By a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to rule out PRA and other eye problems.
* **Patellar Luxation Evaluation:** A veterinarian will manually assess the stability of the patella.
* **Brucella Canis Testing:** A blood test to rule out this bacterial infection, which can cause infertility and abortions.

**1.3 Temperament Assessment:**

* **Observe the dogs’ behavior:** Yorkies should be friendly, playful, and confident. Avoid breeding dogs that are overly aggressive, fearful, or anxious. Temperament is highly heritable.
* **Interact with the dogs:** Spend time with both the sire and dam in different environments to assess their reactions to strangers, children, and other animals.
* **Consider temperament testing:** Formal temperament tests can provide a more objective assessment of a dog’s personality.

**1.4 Conformation:**

* **Breed Standard:** Familiarize yourself with the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Yorkies. This describes the ideal physical characteristics of the breed.
* **Evaluate the dogs’ conformation:** Assess whether the dogs conform to the breed standard in terms of size, coat, head shape, and overall structure. Avoid breeding dogs with significant deviations from the standard, as this can perpetuate undesirable traits.
* **Consult with a breed expert:** If you’re unsure about a dog’s conformation, seek the opinion of an experienced Yorkie breeder or judge.

**1.5 Age and Breeding History:**

* **Age:** The ideal breeding age for female Yorkies is typically between 2 and 5 years old. Avoid breeding females that are too young (before their second heat cycle) or too old (over 6 years old), as this can increase the risk of complications.
* **Breeding History:** Consider the breeding history of both dogs. Has the female had successful pregnancies and deliveries in the past? Has the male proven to be fertile? Avoid over-breeding a female; allow her sufficient time to recover between litters.

## Step 2: Preparing for Breeding

Once you’ve selected a suitable breeding pair, it’s time to prepare them for breeding.

**2.1 Health Check-Up and Vaccinations:**

* **Veterinary Visit:** Take both the sire and dam to the veterinarian for a pre-breeding check-up. This is to ensure they are in optimal health and free from any underlying conditions that could affect their fertility or the health of the puppies.
* **Vaccinations:** Ensure both dogs are up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza (DHPP). Vaccinate the dam before breeding to provide her puppies with passive immunity through her colostrum (first milk).
* **Parasite Control:** Deworm both dogs regularly and ensure they are free from fleas and ticks. Parasites can weaken the dam and be transmitted to the puppies.

**2.2 Nutrition:**

* **High-Quality Diet:** Feed both dogs a high-quality, balanced diet formulated for their life stage. A diet rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients is crucial for optimal reproductive health.
* **Supplementation:** Consider supplementing the dam’s diet with folic acid, which can help prevent neural tube defects in puppies. Consult with your veterinarian about appropriate supplementation.
* **Weight Management:** Maintain both dogs at a healthy weight. Obesity or being underweight can negatively affect fertility.

**2.3 Timing is Everything: Understanding the Female’s Heat Cycle**

* **Proestrus:** This is the beginning of the heat cycle, lasting approximately 9 days. The vulva will swell, and there will be a bloody discharge. The female will attract males but will not yet be receptive to mating.
* **Estrus:** This is the fertile period, lasting approximately 9 days. The vaginal discharge will lighten in color (straw-colored or pinkish), and the female will become receptive to mating. Ovulation typically occurs within the first few days of estrus.
* **Diestrus:** This phase lasts about 60-90 days. The female is no longer receptive to mating, and her hormone levels gradually return to normal. If she is pregnant, this is the period of gestation.
* **Anestrus:** This is the period of reproductive inactivity between heat cycles, lasting several months.

**2.4 Determining the Optimal Breeding Time:**

* **Vaginal Cytology:** This involves examining vaginal cells under a microscope to determine the stage of the heat cycle. It’s a more accurate method than simply observing the female’s behavior.
* **Progesterone Testing:** This blood test measures the progesterone levels in the female’s blood. A surge in progesterone indicates that ovulation is imminent. This is the most accurate method for determining the optimal breeding time.
* **Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Testing:** This test detects the LH surge, which precedes ovulation. It’s less commonly used than progesterone testing but can be helpful in some cases.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best method for tracking the female’s heat cycle and determining the optimal breeding time. Timing is critical for successful conception.

## Step 3: The Breeding Process

There are two main methods of breeding: natural mating and artificial insemination (AI).

**3.1 Natural Mating:**

* **Supervision:** Always supervise natural mating to ensure the safety of both dogs. Yorkies are small and can be easily injured during mating.
* **Introduction:** Introduce the dogs in a neutral environment. Allow them to sniff and interact with each other. If the female is receptive, she will stand for the male.
* **Assistance:** If the male is inexperienced or the female is hesitant, you may need to provide assistance. Support the female and guide the male into the correct position.
* **Tie:** During mating, the dogs will typically become “tied” together. This is when the male’s bulbus glandis swells, preventing him from withdrawing. The tie can last from 15 minutes to an hour. Do not attempt to separate the dogs during the tie, as this can cause injury.
* **Multiple Matings:** To increase the chances of conception, allow the dogs to mate multiple times over a period of 2-3 days, focusing on the most fertile period determined by progesterone testing.

**3.2 Artificial Insemination (AI):**

* **Collection:** Semen is collected from the male using a sterile collection cone and artificial vagina.
* **Evaluation:** The semen is evaluated under a microscope for motility, morphology, and concentration.
* **Insemination:** The semen is then inseminated into the female’s uterus using a sterile catheter. There are three main types of AI:
* **Vaginal Insemination:** The semen is deposited into the vagina.
* **Transcervical Insemination (TCI):** The semen is deposited directly into the uterus using an endoscope to visualize the cervix. This is a more effective method than vaginal insemination.
* **Surgical Insemination:** The semen is surgically implanted into the uterus. This is the most invasive method and is typically reserved for cases where other methods have failed.

AI offers several advantages over natural mating, including:

* **Increased Conception Rates:** TCI and surgical insemination have higher conception rates than natural mating.
* **Ability to Breed Over Long Distances:** Semen can be shipped to the female, allowing breeders to breed dogs that are located far apart.
* **Reduced Risk of Injury:** AI eliminates the risk of injury associated with natural mating.
* **Overcoming Breeding Problems:** AI can be used to overcome breeding problems such as infertility or anatomical abnormalities.

## Step 4: Pregnancy and Prenatal Care

**4.1 Confirming Pregnancy:**

* **Palpation:** A veterinarian can often palpate the abdomen to feel for puppies around 28 days of gestation. However, this method is not always accurate, especially in small breeds like Yorkies.
* **Ultrasound:** An ultrasound can confirm pregnancy as early as 21 days of gestation. It can also provide an estimate of the number of puppies.
* **Relaxin Blood Test:** This blood test detects the presence of relaxin, a hormone produced during pregnancy. It can be performed as early as 25 days of gestation.

**4.2 Prenatal Care:**

* **Nutrition:** Gradually increase the dam’s food intake by about 25-50% during pregnancy, feeding her a high-quality puppy food during the last few weeks of gestation. Puppy food is higher in calories and nutrients, which are essential for fetal development.
* **Exercise:** Provide the dam with gentle exercise throughout pregnancy. Avoid strenuous activities that could put her or the puppies at risk.
* **Deworming:** Deworm the dam again during pregnancy, following your veterinarian’s recommendations. Some dewormers are safe to use during pregnancy and can help prevent puppies from being born with worms.
* **Whelping Box:** Prepare a whelping box (a safe and comfortable space for the dam to give birth) several weeks before her due date. Place it in a quiet, warm, and draft-free location. Line it with soft bedding, such as blankets or towels.
* **Veterinary Check-Ups:** Schedule regular veterinary check-ups throughout pregnancy to monitor the dam’s health and ensure the puppies are developing properly. Discuss any concerns you have with your veterinarian.

**4.3 Preparing for Whelping (Labor and Delivery):**

* **Gather Supplies:** Assemble all the necessary supplies for whelping, including:
* **Clean Towels:** For drying the puppies and cleaning up messes.
* **Sterile Scissors:** For cutting the umbilical cords.
* **Dental Floss or Umbilical Cord Clamps:** For tying off the umbilical cords.
* **Iodine:** For disinfecting the umbilical cords.
* **Bulb Syringe:** For clearing the puppies’ airways.
* **Digital Thermometer:** For monitoring the puppies’ temperature.
* **Heating Pad:** For keeping the puppies warm.
* **Scale:** For weighing the puppies.
* **Notebook and Pen:** For recording information about the puppies, such as their weight, sex, and any distinguishing marks.
* **Emergency Contact Information:** For your veterinarian and a local emergency veterinary clinic.
* **Recognizing the Signs of Labor:** Be aware of the signs of impending labor, including:
* **Loss of Appetite:** The dam may stop eating or eat very little in the 24-48 hours before labor.
* **Nesting Behavior:** The dam will start nesting and arranging her bedding in the whelping box.
* **Temperature Drop:** The dam’s body temperature will typically drop below 100°F in the 12-24 hours before labor.
* **Restlessness:** The dam may become restless and anxious.
* **Panting:** The dam may start panting.
* **Vaginal Discharge:** A clear or mucus-like vaginal discharge may be present.

## Step 5: Whelping (Labor and Delivery)

Whelping can be a stressful time, but with careful preparation and attention, you can help ensure a smooth and successful delivery.

**5.1 Stages of Labor:**

* **Stage 1:** This stage can last from 6 to 12 hours. The dam will experience uterine contractions, but there will be no visible straining. She may be restless, panting, and nesting.
* **Stage 2:** This is the active labor stage, where the dam will start straining. A puppy should be delivered within 1-2 hours of the onset of straining. The puppies are usually born headfirst or breech (rear-first). Both are normal.
* **Stage 3:** This stage involves the expulsion of the placenta (afterbirth) after each puppy is born. Make sure each placenta is expelled to prevent infection in the dam.

**5.2 Assisting with Whelping:**

* **Be Patient:** Allow the dam to labor naturally. Avoid interfering unless there is a problem.
* **Break the Amniotic Sac:** If the puppy is born still enclosed in the amniotic sac, gently tear the sac open and remove it from the puppy’s face.
* **Clear the Airways:** Use the bulb syringe to clear the puppy’s airways of any mucus or fluids.
* **Cut the Umbilical Cord:** Use sterile scissors to cut the umbilical cord about 1-2 inches from the puppy’s abdomen. Tie off the cord with dental floss or an umbilical cord clamp to prevent bleeding. Dip the end of the cord in iodine to disinfect it.
* **Dry the Puppy:** Use a clean towel to dry the puppy and stimulate it to breathe. Rub the puppy vigorously to warm it up.
* **Place the Puppy with the Dam:** Place the puppy with the dam to nurse. Colostrum (the first milk) is rich in antibodies and provides crucial immunity to the puppy.
* **Monitor the Dam and Puppies:** Closely monitor the dam and puppies for any signs of problems. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:
* **Prolonged Straining without Delivering a Puppy:** More than 2 hours of strong straining without a puppy being delivered.
* **Weak or Infrequent Contractions:** Weak or infrequent contractions for more than 2 hours.
* **Greenish-Black Vaginal Discharge without a Puppy:** This can indicate placental separation and fetal distress.
* **Excessive Bleeding:** Excessive bleeding from the vagina.
* **Retained Placenta:** Failure to expel the placenta after each puppy.
* **Lethargy or Depression in the Dam:** Lethargy or depression in the dam after whelping.
* **Puppies Not Nursing:** Puppies that are not nursing or appear weak.

**5.3 Common Whelping Problems in Yorkies:**

* **Dystocia (Difficult Labor):** Yorkies are prone to dystocia due to their small size and large heads. This may require a Cesarean section (C-section).
* **Uterine Inertia:** Weak or absent uterine contractions. This can be treated with medication, but may require a C-section if the dam is unable to deliver the puppies naturally.
* **Retained Placenta:** Failure to expel the placenta after each puppy. This can lead to infection and may require veterinary treatment.
* **Eclampsia (Milk Fever):** A life-threatening condition caused by low calcium levels in the dam. Symptoms include restlessness, panting, muscle tremors, and seizures. This requires immediate veterinary treatment.
* **Mastitis:** Inflammation of the mammary glands. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain in the mammary glands. This requires veterinary treatment.

## Step 6: Neonatal Puppy Care (0-2 Weeks)

The first two weeks of a puppy’s life are critical. They are completely dependent on their mother for warmth, food, and care.

**6.1 Maintaining a Warm Environment:**

* **Temperature:** Puppies cannot regulate their own body temperature for the first few weeks of life. Maintain a temperature of 85-90°F in the whelping box during the first week, gradually decreasing it to 80-85°F by the second week. Use a heating pad or heat lamp to provide warmth.
* **Humidity:** Maintain a humidity level of 55-65% to prevent dehydration.

**6.2 Feeding:**

* **Nursing:** Puppies should nurse frequently, every 2-3 hours, during the first few weeks of life. Colostrum provides essential antibodies to protect them from disease.
* **Bottle Feeding:** If the dam is unable to produce enough milk or the puppies are not nursing properly, you will need to bottle-feed them with a puppy milk replacer. Follow the instructions on the milk replacer package carefully. Use a small, sterile bottle and nipple. Feed the puppies slowly and burp them frequently.
* **Weighing:** Weigh the puppies daily to monitor their growth. They should gain weight steadily. A healthy puppy will typically double its birth weight in the first week.

**6.3 Hygiene:**

* **Stimulating Elimination:** Puppies cannot urinate or defecate on their own for the first few weeks of life. The dam will stimulate them to eliminate by licking their perineal area. If the dam is not doing this, you will need to stimulate them yourself by gently wiping their perineal area with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding.
* **Cleaning:** Keep the whelping box clean and dry to prevent infection. Change the bedding regularly.

**6.4 Monitoring for Health Problems:**

* **Observe the puppies closely for any signs of illness, such as:**
* **Lethargy:** Lack of energy or activity.
* **Loss of Appetite:** Refusal to nurse or bottle-feed.
* **Diarrhea:** Loose or watery stools.
* **Vomiting:** Throwing up.
* **Crying:** Excessive crying or whining.
* **Failure to Gain Weight:** Not gaining weight or losing weight.
* **Consult with your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs.**

**6.5 Common Neonatal Puppy Problems:**

* **Hypothermia:** Low body temperature. This can be caused by inadequate heating or exposure to cold temperatures. Treat with warming measures, such as a heating pad or warm water bottle.
* **Dehydration:** Lack of fluids. This can be caused by inadequate nursing or bottle-feeding. Treat with subcutaneous fluids administered by a veterinarian.
* **Hypoglycemia:** Low blood sugar. This can be caused by inadequate feeding or liver shunts. Treat with oral glucose or honey.
* **Neonatal Isoerythrolysis:** A condition where the dam’s antibodies attack the puppies’ red blood cells. This can occur if the dam has been sensitized to the puppy’s blood type. Prevent by blood typing the dam before breeding.
* **Fading Puppy Syndrome:** A general term for puppies that fail to thrive. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, congenital defects, and inadequate care. Requires immediate veterinary attention.

## Step 7: Puppy Care (2-8 Weeks)

From 2 to 8 weeks of age, puppies become more active and independent. This is a crucial period for socialization and development.

**7.1 Weaning:**

* **Start Weaning at 3-4 Weeks:** Gradually introduce solid food to the puppies, starting with a gruel made of puppy food and water or milk replacer. Offer the gruel several times a day.
* **Reduce Nursing:** As the puppies eat more solid food, gradually reduce the amount of time they spend nursing. By 6-7 weeks of age, they should be fully weaned.
* **Provide Fresh Water:** Always provide the puppies with fresh water.

**7.2 Socialization:**

* **Early Socialization is Crucial:** Expose the puppies to a variety of sights, sounds, and experiences during this period. This will help them develop into well-adjusted adults.
* **Handle the Puppies Daily:** Handle the puppies frequently and gently. This will help them become accustomed to human touch.
* **Introduce the Puppies to New People:** Expose the puppies to different people, including children and adults.
* **Expose the Puppies to New Environments:** Take the puppies outside to explore different environments, such as parks and gardens (after they have received their first vaccinations).
* **Introduce the Puppies to Other Animals:** Introduce the puppies to other animals, such as dogs and cats, in a controlled and safe environment.
* **Start Basic Training:** Begin teaching the puppies basic commands, such as sit, stay, and come.

**7.3 Vaccinations and Deworming:**

* **Vaccinations:** Start vaccinating the puppies at 6-8 weeks of age. Follow your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination schedule. Puppies typically receive a series of vaccinations every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
* **Deworming:** Deworm the puppies regularly, following your veterinarian’s recommendations. Puppies are often born with worms that they acquire from their mother.

**7.4 Health Checks:**

* **Regular Veterinary Check-Ups:** Take the puppies to the veterinarian for regular check-ups to monitor their health and development.
* **Check for Congenital Defects:** Be vigilant for any signs of congenital defects, such as heart murmurs, hernias, or eye problems.

**7.5 Registering the Litter:**

* **Register with the AKC (or other relevant kennel club):** If the parents are registered, you can register the litter with the AKC. This will allow the puppies to be registered as purebred Yorkies.

## Step 8: Finding Responsible Homes

Finding responsible and loving homes for your puppies is the most important aspect of responsible breeding.

**8.1 Screening Potential Buyers:**

* **Require Applications:** Have potential buyers fill out an application that asks about their experience with dogs, their lifestyle, their home environment, and their reasons for wanting a Yorkie.
* **Conduct Interviews:** Interview potential buyers to assess their suitability as pet owners. Ask them about their plans for the puppy’s care, training, and socialization.
* **Check References:** Check the references provided by potential buyers.
* **Home Visits:** If possible, visit the homes of potential buyers to assess the suitability of the environment.
* **Charge a Fair Price:** Charging a fair price for the puppies will help deter impulse buyers and ensure that the new owners are committed to providing them with proper care.

**8.2 Sales Agreements:**

* **Use a Written Sales Agreement:** Use a written sales agreement that outlines the responsibilities of both the breeder and the buyer. The agreement should include information about the puppy’s health, vaccinations, and any guarantees offered by the breeder.
* **Include a Return Clause:** Include a clause in the sales agreement that allows the buyer to return the puppy to the breeder if they are unable to care for it. This will help ensure that the puppy does not end up in a shelter.
* **Offer Support:** Offer ongoing support to the new owners, such as advice on training, nutrition, and health care.

**8.3 Placement Timing:**

* **Wait Until 8-12 Weeks:** Do not allow the puppies to go to their new homes until they are at least 8 weeks old, and preferably 10-12 weeks old. This will give them enough time to socialize with their littermates and develop properly.

## Ethical Considerations and Responsible Breeding Practices

Responsible breeding goes beyond simply producing puppies. It’s about improving the breed and ensuring the health and well-being of all dogs involved.

* **Breed to Improve:** Breed only dogs that meet the breed standard and have excellent temperaments.
* **Prioritize Health:** Conduct thorough health testing to minimize the risk of passing on genetic diseases.
* **Socialize Puppies:** Socialize puppies early to help them develop into well-adjusted adults.
* **Screen Buyers Carefully:** Find responsible and loving homes for the puppies.
* **Be a Resource:** Provide ongoing support to the new owners.
* **Never Breed for Profit:** Breeding should not be viewed as a way to make money. The health and well-being of the dogs should always come first.
* **Limit Breeding:** Do not over-breed your dogs. Give them ample time to recover between litters.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in canine breeding.

Breeding Yorkies is a significant undertaking that requires a considerable investment of time, money, and effort. By following these guidelines and prioritizing the health and well-being of your dogs, you can contribute to the responsible breeding of this beloved breed and help ensure that the puppies go to loving and responsible homes. Remember that if you are unsure of something, seek advice from a professional veterinarian, a knowledgeable and ethical breeder, or a breed-specific rescue organization.