Once you're sitting on the floor with a litter of puppies climbing all over you, it will be nearly impossible to make a rational decision. If you haven't thought about all the important implications of getting a new puppy by this time, you probably never will. You'll end up choosing the one sucking on your fingers or the one with the brightest eyes instead of focusing on how well the breeder answers your questions or how clean the premises are. Before you even go to look at possible dogs, you should have your parameters firmly in mind or, better yet, written down. Seeing these guidelines in writing may help you stick to your plans and resist the temptation of an adorable little face.

For Show

If you want to show your dog but don't have experience in the show ring, make sure you do your research. Life with a show dog is completely different from life with a family pet. All Yorkies should have the basic terrier attitude, but those bred for the show ring generally have a bit more flash and fire. They have to dazzle judges with personality as well as looks, and you can expect them to be “in your face” sorts of dogs. Buying a show dog may also commit you to doing a certain amount of showing, if specified by the breeder. You'll have to devote a lot of time to the dog; he'll need training, exercise, and plenty of socialization. If your weekends are already full of activities, you'll have to adjust your lifestyle or decide that a pet-quality dog is the better choice for you.

For Other Dog Activities

If you're not interested in showing your dog but you do want him to do more than lie by the fireside, there are several options available to you. Both show and pet dogs should be physically and temperamentally sound enough to do any sports activities that catch your interest, such as agility and freestyle. You could also perform a public service with your dog, such as pet therapy. Luckily, these dogs don't have to have the perfect head or stunning coat that's required of show dogs. Any healthy, well-socialized Yorkie can make a great sports competitor, a helpful social volunteer, or just a loving companion.