Why Yorkshire Terriers Are Expensive Tiny Disasters
I thought getting a small dog would be cheaper. Smaller stomach, less food, right? Wrong. Yorkies are basically tiny medical mysteries wrapped in cute outfits.
Their Kneecaps Fall Out
Tiny's kneecaps started dislocating when she got excited. She'd run across the yard and suddenly be limping on three legs. The vet showed me how to pop it back in, but surgery is the only real fix. $3,000 per leg, and most yorkies need both legs done.
They Can't Breathe Right
Collapsing trachea sounds scary because it is. Tiny makes this honking sound when she gets excited. The vet says her windpipe is too soft and collapses on itself. Medication helps, but severe cases need surgery that costs $4,000.
Their Teeth Are a Nightmare
Tiny's mouth is too small for her teeth. By age five, half of them were rotting. Dental cleanings under anesthesia cost $1,200 each time, and extractions are extra. Small dogs have proportionally huge dental problems.
What Yorkshire Terrier Insurance Really Needs
If you're getting a yorkie, you're signing up for knee surgery and dental work. Plan accordingly.
Orthopedic Coverage Is Not Optional
Tiny's luxating patella surgery was completely covered by our insurance. Without it, we would have been choosing between $6,000 for both knees or watching her hobble around permanently. Small breed orthopedic problems are basically guaranteed.
Dental Coverage Saves Your Sanity
We pay extra for dental coverage because Tiny needs cleanings every year. At $1,200 each time, it pays for itself quickly. Some people skip dental coverage, but with yorkies, that's like skipping oil changes on your car.