Why I’m Committed to Ethical Breeding & Health Testing

 


Why I’m Committed to Ethical Breeding & Health Testing

Posted on April 25 | Yorkie Tales Blog – Setareh Yorkies


When I started Setareh Yorkies, it wasn’t just about raising adorable puppies (though let’s be honest—Yorkie puppies are irresistible!). It was about something deeper: protecting and preserving the breed I’ve come to love with my whole heart.


Behind the cute photos and fluffy ears is a strong commitment to ethical breeding and health testing, and today I want to take you behind the scenes to share why this matters so much—and how it shapes everything we do at Setareh.


🐾 What Ethical Breeding Means to Me


Ethical breeding is about more than matching two pretty dogs. It means putting the long-term health, temperament, and well-being of the breed first—always. It means:

Breeding with purpose, not just for profit

Honoring breed standards for size, structure, and temperament

Choosing sires and dams based on health, genetics, and personality

Raising puppies in a loving, enriching home environment


Every decision I make is with the goal of producing well-adjusted, healthy Yorkies who can thrive as cherished companions for years to come.


🧬 The Importance of Health Testing


Yorkies are a small but mighty breed—and like any breed, they can carry genetic health risks. That’s why I believe in pre-breeding health testing, using tools like:

DNA panel testing for breed-specific conditions

OFA certifications for patellas, cardiac health, and more

Regular vet evaluations and blood work

Thorough family history review to minimize risk in pairings


Our girl Maci is currently undergoing her full round of health testing before we consider her for future litters. This process is non-negotiable. No matter how sweet or beautiful a dog is, if they don’t pass our health and temperament standards, they won’t be bred.


💛 It’s About Legacy, Not Just Litters


I believe that every puppy who leaves Setareh Yorkies carries part of our heart—and our values—with them. That’s why I take my role as a breeder seriously. I’m not just raising puppies; I’m building relationships with families and helping them welcome a healthy, joyful, lifelong companion into their home.


I also stay in touch with our Setareh families. I offer support long after Gotcha Day, and I’m always here to answer questions about grooming, nutrition, training, or anything else that comes up.


✨ How You Can Spot an Ethical Breeder


Whether you’re looking for a Yorkie or any other breed, here are a few signs you’re working with an ethical breeder:


✔️ They health test and are transparent about results

✔️ Puppies are raised in-home, not in kennels

✔️ They ask you lots of questions (because they care where their pups go!)

✔️ They provide a contract and health guarantee

✔️ They don’t have litters constantly—quality > quantity

✔️ They stay in touch and offer lifelong breeder support


Final Thoughts


At Setareh Yorkies, we believe in doing things the right way—even when it takes more time, more effort, and more heart. Because these dogs deserve nothing less.


If you ever have questions about our breeding process, health testing, or upcoming plans, I’d love to connect. Education and transparency are part of who we are, and I’m always happy to share what we do—and why we do it.


Thanks for following along and supporting ethical breeding. Together, we can raise the bar and protect this incredible breed for generations to come. 🐾

🐶 Written with love by Heather, proud owner of Setareh Yorkies.

Follow us on Instagram @setarehyorkies for daily tips, sweet moments, and a peek into life with our pack. 💛

For more adorable Yorkie updates, tips, and everything in between, visit us at Setareh Yorkies and be sure to follow our Yorkie adventures on Instagram @setarehyorkies. We can't wait to connect with you and share our love for these sweet pups!

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