Bringing a Yorkie into your home can be a wonderful and rewarding experience. These small and affectionate dogs are adored for their playful personalities and cute looks. However, the decision to own a Yorkie is not one that should be taken lightly, as it comes with a significant financial commitment. From buying a puppy to providing food, grooming, veterinary care, and training, the true cost of owning a Yorkie can add up quickly. In this article, we will explore the various expenses involved in owning a Yorkie and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you understand the true cost of being a Yorkie parent in the UK.

Buying a Yorkie
The cost of buying a Yorkie in the UK can vary depending on several factors, such as the age and pedigree of the dog, the breeder, and the location. On average, a Yorkie puppy can cost anywhere from £800 to £4000. However, it’s important to remember that the initial cost of buying a puppy is just the beginning of the financial commitment involved in owning a Yorkie.

Food and Treats
Like all dogs, Yorkies need to eat, and the cost of food and treats can add up over time. Depending on the brand and quality of food, you can expect to spend around £200 to £1000 a year on feeding your Yorkie. Treats and snacks can also be an additional expense, and it’s important to choose high-quality treats that are safe and healthy for your pup.

Grooming
Yorkies have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Depending on your pup’s grooming needs, you may need to take them to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks, which can cost around £40 to £70 per session, in London’s elite areas the cost can be much higher. You may also need to purchase grooming supplies, such as brushes and shampoos, which can add up to around £100 a year.

Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining your Yorkie’s health and wellbeing. This includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative treatments for fleas and ticks. The cost of veterinary care can vary depending on the services required, but you can expect to spend around £300 to £500 a year on routine care. However, unexpected illnesses or injuries can add significant costs to your vet bills, so it’s important to have a contingency plan in place, and a pet insurance is always recommended.

Dog Walking & Daycare
The cost of dog walking and daycare can vary greatly depending on where you live, particularly between the countryside and London. In the countryside, dog walking services and daycare facilities tend to be less expensive due to lower operating costs and competition. For example, you may be able to find a local dog walker who charges around £8-15 for a 60-minute walk, or a daycare facility that charges £20-30 per day. These prices may vary depending on the specific area and the level of services provided. On the other hand, in London, dog services can be significantly more expensive due to the higher cost of living and operating costs. In more affluent areas of the city, the prices can be even higher, with some dog walkers charging upwards of £20-25 for a 30-minute walk, and daycare facilities charging £30-50 per day or more.

Training and Socialisation
Yorkies are intelligent dogs that require proper training and socialisation to help them become well-behaved and happy companions. The cost of training and socialisation can vary depending on the method and the trainer, but you can expect to spend around £100 to £200 for puppy classes or basic training. More advanced training, such as obedience classes or agility training, can be more expensive.

In conclusion, owning a Yorkie in the UK can be a significant financial commitment. The initial cost of buying a puppy is just the beginning, and ongoing expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and training can add up quickly. It’s important to budget accordingly and plan for unexpected expenses to ensure that you can provide the best possible care for your furry friend. With proper care and attention, your Yorkie can be a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.