First time dog owner: Was thinking about getting a Yorkie Terrier

[subject2change]

Some are less likely to cause allergies because they don't shed, but some people can still be sensitive to non-shedding breeds. There is no dog that is 100% hypoallergenic for every person.

[ZSP]

Originally Posted by Fizzy Bear

According to Obama and Senator Kennedy, the breed that Bo is is suppose to be hypoallergenic ~ Water something?

Portuguese Water Dog...but they are not small dogs like then OP wants.

OP, I've had big dogs most of my adult years but since we travel with our dogs, we needed to downsize and now have Boston Terriers and a French Bulldog. Bostons are great small(er) dogs, are devoted pets, love their humans, travel well, are energetic, fun and smart, easy to train, hardly shed, no grooming needed other than an occasional brushing and bath.

Having said this, my sister has a Maltese and a Yorkie...she loves both these breeds.

I'm glad you're giving a lot of thought about which breed will best suit your lifestyle. Just remember your commitment is for the life of the dog...for better or worse...and do be prepared financially for whatever may come up. Dogs get sick, have diseases, accidents and deep pockets are often needed. Example, in just four weeks I had vet bills in excess of $4000. One dog needed arthroscopic surgery on both elbows...the other had an eye ulcer that wasn't healing well. Just putting that out there.

Good luck. Lots of great advice has already been given.

[gardener34]

It is a popular breed, research a good breeder or get in touch with a yorkie rescue in your area. DO NOT get from a petshop/puppymill, you may have health and temperment issues. Also research the breed's common health issues, so you can ask informed questions of the breeder. Even so-called "good" breeders may not be once held under the microscope A good breeder may put you on the waiting list for a pet quality dog, since most will not sell show quality pets except to other breeders. But it is worth it, sounds like you have time to wait!

Little dogs can be crate trained which is good. I highly recommend it at least til they are housetrained and are past the puppy chewing stage. Leaving them alone when they are still little can be deadly as they are a threat to themselves. Think leaving a 3yo in the house alone is a good idea? NOT.