How big will my Yorkie Get?

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The first question I usually am asked, is "How big will my Yorkie be when an adult:" There is not a simple or easy answer to this question. So, lets dive in and see what determines your pets size.

Genes – It seems simple. Just  look at the mom (Dam) and dad (Sire). In general, the size of the parents will give you a general idea of the full grown size of your pup. However, this isn't always the case, because your pups size  is determined not only by it's parents, but by the parents on both sides, many generations back into it's bloodline. This is why a 4 lb parent can have 12 lb offspring.

Diet – They type of foods and treats you feed your pet will contribute to it's health and size. Poor food or not enough food will create small, weak and unhealthy pets. Too much food and treats can make your healthy pet  grow larger or become overweight. Keep your pups food balanced and remember, they need meat, even if you choose to be a vegetarian or vegan.

Medications – Sometimes, medications given to your pet at certain stages in life can cause stunted or accelerated growth in your pet. I have seen this with steroids given while the puppy is sick and still in a heavy growth phase. For example: A pup being treated for Giardia with steroids and antibiotics at age 3 months. may grow into an oversized Yorkie.

So, how do you know? – An experienced breeder can do their best to guess the adult size of your new pup, based on it's birth weight and how fast it's growing in the weeks and months before that pup goes to your home. There is no way to guarantee the adult size of a pup, as no one can ever be 100% sure of the actual adult size of a pup. In the end, size doesn't matter. We love Yorkies at any size.