The Shorkie is an adorably fluffy and cute little dog that possesses an unexpectedly strong personality.
These little pups are friendly and protective. They love to run around and be active just as much as they love to cuddle with their owner.
If you’ve been thinking about adopting a Shorkie or have never heard of this type of dog before, then you are at the right place.
Let’s find out all about Shorkie and whether it would be an excellent addition to your family or not.
History Of The Shorkie
The Shorkie breed has a short history, it has only just begun to gain popularity in recent years, but this trend is expected to continue growing in the years to come. The Shorkie is made by crossing Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier.
It means the Shorkie isn’t a pure breed but a cross-bred pup with both parents’ qualities.
Breed Origin
Let’s look at Shorkie’s ancestors:
- A Shih Tzu was initially a member of the Chinese royal family; these pups were given lavish gifts by local rulers and used to spend their days sitting on their laps. They are recognized for being exceptionally devoted to their parents, but at the same time, they are bold and stubborn canines. Even though they are a breed that enjoys company, they are also content when they are left alone at home.
- The second parent is a Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) that was purposely developed to be smaller so that it could be used in mines in Northern England around the middle of the 1800s. Yorkies have a strong will and can be challenging to train. They are recognized for being stubborn, and they are also very small in size.
Fact: People often confuse Morkie with Shorkie. But both of these dogs are different. Morkie is a Maltese Yorkie and Shih Tzu mix, while Shorkie is a Yorkie/Teacup Yorkie and Shih Tzu mix.
Characteristics
Let’s move on to discuss all the traits and features of Shorkie:
Appearance
The Shorkie is a small- to medium-sized dog, typically weighing between seven and twelve pounds and standing between eight and eleven inches tall. They also have long, floppy ears, a short muzzle, and a curly tail.
The Shorkie’s coat can be straight, wavy, or curly and can range from short to long. It also often has a silky texture, ranging in color from white to various shades of brown and grey.
Depending on the dog, the coat may have markings, such as spots or stripes. Shorkies can also have different eye colors, such as brown, blue, or even a combination of both.
Color
They have a beautiful coat that comes in a variety of colors, including:
- Red
- Gold
- Gold, Black, and White
- Black and Tan
- White and Brown
Temperament
Shorkies have a friendly disposition, are highly clever, like playing, and are quite affectionate. They are great watchdogs, but they are also happy to sit on your lap.
If they are socialized beginning at a young age, they are highly adaptive and will get along well with youngsters as well as other animals.
These dogs are great for kids to have as pets, but they should never play without an adult observing. Shorkies are small and can get hurt easily if they are handled too roughly.
Shorkies can occasionally develop symptoms of separation anxiety; it is essential that they not be left alone for extended periods of time.
Lifespan
The majority of Shih Tzus live between 12 and 15 years of age, making their average lifespan 13 years. Shih Tzus are very independent dogs that can do well in many different places.
However, because of their independent attitude, they are not considered the most obedient breed, and they need much attention to survive.
Daily Life
Although Shorkies are famous as mischievous dogs, the love you receive from such a little and lovable canine makes an effort worthwhile.
Food And Diet
No matter how old your canine companion is, you should always provide them with a balanced diet. You must get a meal that is specifically designed for a tiny dog breed, although this can be dry food, wet food, dehydrated food, or even raw food.
Young Shorkie eats four meals per day, but after they reach the age of six months, this number should be decreased to two meals per day.
In general, you should provide them with food that has forty calories for every pound.
Therefore, if your Shorkie weighs ten pounds, you should anticipate giving him a daily diet of 380 calories to maintain his weight.
It is important to note that Shorkie puppies have the potential to become overweight if they are overfed; thus, you should keep a close eye on the quantity of food that they consume at all times.
One other thing you can do to make sure they maintain a healthy weight and body composition is to give them nutritious treats.
Exercise
Many people believe that just because pups are small, they won’t need too much physical activity. While this may be true for some dogs, Shorkies are highly active and are like little powerhouses.
These canines require a significant amount of daily exercise to maintain good health and avoid developing symptoms of depression. Many people who own pups fail to realize that their pets need cerebral stimulation and regular physical activity.
If you want to save the life of a Shorkie pup, you need to be prepared to provide them with at least half an hour of physical activity and cerebral stimulation regularly. You may do all of these things by working together in a variety of different ways.
Your dog will benefit from lots of mental and physical stimulation from participating in several enrichment activities.
Family Compatibility
This is an essential consideration for any pet owner, as your pet’s personality and energy level will affect how well they fit into your home.
The Shorkie is a great family pet, as they are loving and friendly creatures that enjoy the companionship of their humans. They have enough energy to keep up with active children, but they are also calm enough to be suitable for seniors or those with disabilities.
Shorkies also need plenty of attention from their family. They are very devoted to their people and don’t like being left alone for long periods. This can make them prone to separation anxiety, so giving them lots of love and attention throughout the day is essential.
Training
The qualities that make Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers bright and obedient creatures have been inherited by the Shorkie, which results in the Shorkie being ready to learn new things. But they have also inherited their stubbornness, so training may not be easy.
It all depends on how much of the past qualities have been handed down to the next generation of Shorkies as to whether or not they are easy or difficult to train. Although some dogs are willing to be trained and pick up their new skills quickly, it is possible that other dogs may want additional time, patience, and rewards to come around.
Socializing
Shorkies have a reputation for being social and outgoing, and they do well with other animals. It’s essential to introduce them to other animals or even people in a slow and controlled manner, so they don’t become overwhelmed or scared.
Proper socialization is critical to ensuring your Shorkie is confident and well-adjusted.
Grooming
Shorkies have straight coats that range from medium to long in length. When it comes to grooming, both the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire terrier are thought to be high-maintenance breeds.
Brushing these animals’ coats regularly is necessary for maintaining a clean coat. Due to their unique fur characteristics, these canines are ideal for people who suffer from allergies.
However, they require far more attention and care than other dogs. Aside from brushing daily, they need regular baths and a complete grooming session every six weeks.
The Shorkie is not the right choice if you want a low-maintenance dog. If you don’t mind grooming, this dog may be perfect for both you and your home.
Known Health Issues
As a hybrid breed, the Shorkie may be predisposed to some health issues that can affect their lifespan.
While not all Shorkies will face these issues, you must familiarize yourself with the conditions they may be prone to ensure that you’re providing the best care possible.
They may be more likely to suffer from conditions such as brachycephalic airway syndrome, dental disease, glaucoma, hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, and lens luxation.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
This syndrome is a combination of small, undeveloped nostrils, lower airways, an extended soft palate along with potential laryngeal abnormalities. This causes respiratory discomfort in Shorkies, especially when frightened or stimulated, and may require surgery in extreme cases. Pups suffering from severe breathing difficulties should never be used again for breeding.
Dental Disease
Shorkies can be especially prone to dental diseases, such as tartar buildup, which can lead to gingivitis and other oral infections. Brushing your Shorkie’s teeth daily and visiting the vet for regular checkups can help prevent and treat such issues.
Hypoglycaemia
Shorkies may experience low blood glucose (Hypoglycaemia) during weaning, like many tiny breed puppies. This is because their livers and muscles don’t store much of this essential sugar.
It can produce severe symptoms of depression, including even loss of consciousness, which needs to be treated with an emergency glucose infusion, as well as frequent force-feeding until the puppy has significantly expanded in size.
Lens Luxation
If the network of fibers that generally keep the lens of the eye in its usual place begins to degenerate, the lens may get displaced and slide into either of the chambers of the eye. This results in impaired vision and, in some cases, the development of cataracts in Shorkies.
Glaucoma
Shorkies may also be prone to eye issues, such as glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness if untreated. Dog eye drops can help reduce the risk of such issues, and regular visits to the vet can help catch any early signs of developing problems.
Patellar Luxation
Anatomic anomalies of the hindlimb, which can be inherited from both parent breeds, can make it possible for the kneecap to “pop” out of place during activity, which results in a three-legged skipping gait that is often intermittent in nature. It could result in the start of arthritis at an earlier age.
What Care Is Required For A Shorkie?
Shorkies make great companions but require specific care to stay happy and healthy. Shih Tzu-Yorkie mix is sensitive to the weather and should wear a sweater when it’s cold.
In addition to this, their coat should be trimmed once every three to four weeks and combed regularly. They should be washed once every two weeks.
Caring for a Shorkie requires patience and dedication.
With the proper care, they can be happy and healthy companions.
Is Shih Tzu Yorkies Easy To Train?
Yes, Shorkies have high intelligence and are eager to please their owners so they can learn quickly. They are sensitive to their owner’s moods, so positive reinforcement is an excellent way to train these dogs.
Patience and consistency are key when training and Shorkies thrive with early obedience training.
They can learn basic commands such as sit, stay, and come quickly with positive reinforcement. They also have a high energy level and should be taken on daily walks or jogs.
With patience and consistency, Shorkies can become excellent, loyal, and obedient pets.
How Much Does A Shorkie Cost?
Shorkies are becoming increasingly popular, so you must know how much you will need to pay for one of these adorable puppies.
The cost of a Shorkie puppy can range anywhere from $2,500 to $6,500 or more, depending on the breeder and the quality of the puppies. This can include additional expenses such as vet bills, food, grooming, and vaccinations.
It’s essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder that has screened their stock for any genetic issues.
In addition to the cost of the puppy itself, you should also consider the ongoing costs associated with owning a pet. This includes pet insurance, food, toys, and any other necessities.
It’s important to factor in these costs when considering bringing a Shorkie into your life.
FAQ’s
Should I Buy or Adopt a Shorkie?
Well! That’s an important decision that involves much consideration and research.
One option is to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder. This will ensure you know the puppy’s health history and that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized animal.
However, buying a puppy from a breeder can be expensive, and there are no guarantees the puppy will be free from genetic illnesses.
Another option is to adopt a Shorkie from a rescue organization. This is usually less expensive than buying from a breeder, and it can also be a great way to give a home to a dog in need. However, adopting from a rescue organization means you will not know the dog’s health history or background.
Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference and budget. Do your research and decide what is best for you and your family.
Are Shorkies Good Family Dogs?
The temperament of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix (Shorkie) is excellent for families since the dogs tend to form strong attachments to their human companions. They have a positive attitude and are very friendly. They are able to get along with people of all ages, as well as other canines and animals, provided that proper introductions are made between the parties.
However, Shorkies are too fragile for small children, who may use them as toys. They have the potential to compress them and keep them in inappropriate positions. It’s possible that a Shorkie’s stubborn nature might produce problems with children.
What Is A Yorkie and Shih Tzu Mix Called?
A Yorkie and Shih Tzu mix is commonly referred to as a Shorkie. The Shorkie is a designer cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Shih Tzu, resulting in a small, affectionate, and playful dog with an aggressive personality. They are intelligent and loyal companions, making them a popular breed for those seeking a lapdog.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Yorkie And Shih Tzu Mix?
Shorkies have a generally long lifespan, an average of 12 to 15 years. Shorkies are predisposed to some health issues that can affect their lifespan. This includes oral health issues such as dental disease, gum disease, and tartar buildup. Brushing their teeth daily and visiting the vet for regular checkups can help keep your Shorkie healthy and living a long life.
Can You Mix Yorkie With Shih Tzu?
Yes, Yorkie and Shih Tzu can be mixed to create a hybrid breed known as a Shorkie. The Shorkie is a fairly new breed and is becoming increasingly popular due to its fun-sized, low-maintenance qualities.
The Shorkie is a hybrid breed, which means that it’s a combination of two purebreds. While there is no guarantee of their exact traits, Shorkies typically have a combination of qualities from both the Yorkie and the Shih Tzu. They are small-sized, have a playful personalities, and have low-shedding fur.
Conclusion
Shorkies are small dogs with big personalities. These toy dogs are strong-willed and active and love to play outdoors. They will form a strong relationship with their family and love their parents.
Even though they have high grooming demands and require extensive training to minimize separation anxiety, these pups may be the ideal companion for a person or even a small family.
