Shorkie

Shorkie is a designer dog breed, a lively and affectionate cross between the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. They are also known as Shorkie Tzu.

Shorkie Breed overview

The Shorkie is a small, affectionate breed that makes an excellent lap dog and family pet. They are friendly with children and other dogs, and they are adaptable to a variety of living situations, including apartments and larger homes. Regular grooming and exercise are essential to keep them healthy and happy, and positive reinforcement training methods work best with this intelligent breed. While they may be prone to certain health issues, regular vet check-ups and good nutrition can prevent many common problems. Overall, the Shorkie is a loyal, playful companion that brings joy to its owners.

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What To Expect When Caring For a Shorkie

Health

Shorkies are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health concerns for Shorkies include dental problems, eye issues, and allergies.

Regular visits to the veterinarian and a healthy diet can help keep Shorkies in good health throughout their lives.

Exercise

Shorkies are small dogs that require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks and playtime are important for their physical and mental well-being.

While they are small enough to live comfortably in apartments or small homes, they still need enough space to move around and play.

Nutrition

Shorkies require a healthy, balanced diet to maintain good health. High-quality dog food, either commercial or homemade, can help ensure that they get the nutrients they need.

It is important to feed them the appropriate amount of food for their size and activity level, and to avoid overfeeding them to prevent obesity.

Grooming

Shorkies require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition. They can have either long or short hair, so the grooming needs can vary from dog to dog.

Regular brushing, bathing, and trimming are important to keep their coats looking healthy and prevent mats and tangles.

Training

Shorkies are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Positive reinforcement training techniques are generally the most effective method for training Shorkies.

They can be sensitive to harsh training methods, and may shut down or become stubborn if they feel threatened or scared.

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Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Shorkies are a highly affectionate breed, and they love to cuddle up with their owners. They crave attention and make great lap dogs. They are loyal and attach themselves strongly to their owners.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Shorkies are playful and gentle with children, but as with all dogs, parental supervision is a must. They are generally tolerant and patient with kids and enjoy playing and snuggling with them.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Shorkies are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs. However, they may take time to adjust to new canine friends, and scuffles or dominance challenges may arise. Early socialization is essential.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Shorkies may be reserved or cautious with new people but are generally friendly. Early socialization is important to help them learn how to interact with people and feel comfortable in a variety of social situations.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Shorkies are energetic and playful, and they love to engage in games and activities with their owners. They enjoy toys, running, and playing fetch.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Shorkies are moderately alert and may bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual occurrences. They may not be suitable for guard duty, but are attentive and make great watchdogs.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Shorkies are adaptable to a variety of living situations, including apartments and houses. They are small and portable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Shorkies may shed a moderate amount, depending on their coat type and grooming regimen. Regular brushing and grooming can help decrease shedding. They are not hypoallergenic and may cause allergies in people who are allergic to dogs.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Shorkies require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and clean. They may have a fine, silky coat or a wavy, scruffy coat that needs to be trimmed regularly. They may also need frequent baths and ear cleanings.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Shorkies are not heavy droolers and generally have a dry mouth. However, some individual dogs may drool more than others or may have a tendency to lick excessively.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Shorkies are small dogs, typically weighing between 4 and 16 pounds and standing between 6 and 14 inches tall. They are compact and portable but still have plenty of personality.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Shorkies are energetic and need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy walks, playtime, and running around the backyard.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Shorkies need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy walks, playtime, and games. They are small but have a lot of energy and require regular exercise.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Shorkies are not typically used for working or performing tasks or jobs. They make great companions and lap dogs but may lack the skills or drive for working tasks.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Shorkies are not used for hunting, as they do not have strong prey drive or scenting abilities. They may enjoy chasing small animals but are not typically used for hunting game.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Shorkies have moderate vigor and energy levels. They are not high-energy dogs, but they do require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Shorkies are generally healthy, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, liver shunt, and renal failure. Regular vet check-ups, good nutrition, and dental hygiene are essential for their well-being.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Shorkies may be prone to obesity if overfed or given too many treats. A balanced diet and regular exercise are important to keep them at a healthy weight.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Shorkies can tolerate cold weather, but they may need extra warmth and protection. Owners should provide warm bedding, clothing, or shelter when temperatures drop.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Shorkies can handle warm weather but may overheat quickly. Owners should provide plenty of shade, cool water, and rest breaks when spending time outdoors in hot weather.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Shorkies are small and adaptable, and they can thrive in apartments as well as larger homes. They are energetic and need regular exercise and playtime, but they do not require large yards.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Shorkies may have a moderate wanderlust tendency. Owners should keep them leashed or in a secure area to prevent escape. They may also need supervision in outdoor areas or unfamiliar locations.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Shorkies may be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and harsh training methods should not be used. Positive reinforcement training with rewards and praise works best with this breed.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Shorkies may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods. They enjoy being with their owners and may need stimulation in the form of toys or puzzles to keep them occupied.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Shorkies may bark at strangers or other dogs, but they are not excessive barkers. They are not suitable for apartments or close living quarters where noise may be an issue.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Shorkies are intelligent and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games which challenge their intelligence.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Shorkies are a great choice for novice dog owners. They are adaptable to a variety of living situations, are easy to train, and are generally well-behaved. Patience and consistency in training is key.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Shorkies are obedient and intelligent, and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They may be stubborn at times but can learn a variety of commands and tricks with patience and consistency.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Shorkies are a highly affectionate breed, and they love to cuddle up with their owners. They crave attention and make great lap dogs. They are loyal and attach themselves strongly to their owners.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Shorkies are playful and gentle with children, but as with all dogs, parental supervision is a must. They are generally tolerant and patient with kids and enjoy playing and snuggling with them.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Shorkies are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs. However, they may take time to adjust to new canine friends, and scuffles or dominance challenges may arise. Early socialization is essential.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Shorkies may be reserved or cautious with new people but are generally friendly. Early socialization is important to help them learn how to interact with people and feel comfortable in a variety of social situations.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Shorkies are energetic and playful, and they love to engage in games and activities with their owners. They enjoy toys, running, and playing fetch.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Shorkies are moderately alert and may bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual occurrences. They may not be suitable for guard duty, but are attentive and make great watchdogs.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Shorkies are adaptable to a variety of living situations, including apartments and houses. They are small and portable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Shorkies may shed a moderate amount, depending on their coat type and grooming regimen. Regular brushing and grooming can help decrease shedding. They are not hypoallergenic and may cause allergies in people who are allergic to dogs.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Shorkies require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and clean. They may have a fine, silky coat or a wavy, scruffy coat that needs to be trimmed regularly. They may also need frequent baths and ear cleanings.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Shorkies are not heavy droolers and generally have a dry mouth. However, some individual dogs may drool more than others or may have a tendency to lick excessively.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Shorkies are small dogs, typically weighing between 4 and 16 pounds and standing between 6 and 14 inches tall. They are compact and portable but still have plenty of personality.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Shorkies are energetic and need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy walks, playtime, and running around the backyard.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Shorkies need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy walks, playtime, and games. They are small but have a lot of energy and require regular exercise.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Shorkies are not typically used for working or performing tasks or jobs. They make great companions and lap dogs but may lack the skills or drive for working tasks.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Shorkies are not used for hunting, as they do not have strong prey drive or scenting abilities. They may enjoy chasing small animals but are not typically used for hunting game.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Shorkies have moderate vigor and energy levels. They are not high-energy dogs, but they do require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Shorkies are generally healthy, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, liver shunt, and renal failure. Regular vet check-ups, good nutrition, and dental hygiene are essential for their well-being.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Shorkies may be prone to obesity if overfed or given too many treats. A balanced diet and regular exercise are important to keep them at a healthy weight.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Shorkies can tolerate cold weather, but they may need extra warmth and protection. Owners should provide warm bedding, clothing, or shelter when temperatures drop.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Shorkies can handle warm weather but may overheat quickly. Owners should provide plenty of shade, cool water, and rest breaks when spending time outdoors in hot weather.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Shorkies are small and adaptable, and they can thrive in apartments as well as larger homes. They are energetic and need regular exercise and playtime, but they do not require large yards.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Shorkies may have a moderate wanderlust tendency. Owners should keep them leashed or in a secure area to prevent escape. They may also need supervision in outdoor areas or unfamiliar locations.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Shorkies may be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and harsh training methods should not be used. Positive reinforcement training with rewards and praise works best with this breed.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Shorkies may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods. They enjoy being with their owners and may need stimulation in the form of toys or puzzles to keep them occupied.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Shorkies may bark at strangers or other dogs, but they are not excessive barkers. They are not suitable for apartments or close living quarters where noise may be an issue.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Shorkies are intelligent and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games which challenge their intelligence.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Shorkies are a great choice for novice dog owners. They are adaptable to a variety of living situations, are easy to train, and are generally well-behaved. Patience and consistency in training is key.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Shorkies are obedient and intelligent, and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They may be stubborn at times but can learn a variety of commands and tricks with patience and consistency.

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History of the Shorkie

As a designer dog breed, the Shorkie has a relatively short history. They were first bred in the United States in the 1990s as a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier.

The goal of the breeding was to create a small dog that had the best qualities of both parent breeds: the Shih Tzu's friendly demeanor and the Yorkshire Terrier's intelligence and hypoallergenic coat.

Shorkie Puppies

Shorkie puppies are tiny and adorable, and they require a lot of attention and care in their first few months of life.

Early socialization and training are important to ensure that they grow up to be well-behaved and happy dogs. They should be introduced to new people, places, and experiences at an early age to help them become confident and well-adjusted adults.