If you’re considering getting a Yorkshire Dachshund mix for your family, you should know a few things about these beautiful pups. The Yorkshire Terrier Dachshund, often known as a Dorkie or Yorkie Poo Dachshund Mix, is a designer dog that comes from a mix of two different dog breeds.
Dorkies are known for their gentle and devoted temperament, as well as their ability to be easily trained and great watchdogs. Continue reading to find out more about this rare breed of dog. This adorable canine is sure to win your heart. It’s the perfect friend and a great pet for the family.
History of the Dorkie
The Yorkshire Dachshund is a newer breed of dog. It was believed to have first appeared between 20 and 30 years ago. However, it is impossible to determine how this hybrid was created, whether on purpose or by accident. It came from a well-known family, and a lot is known about each of the parents.
Dachshunds were renowned for their ability to hunt animals when they were first developed in Germany around 1500. They were dubbed Badger Dogs for their badger-hunting skills. They could easily get into badger holes with their long bodies and strong tiny feet. They gained popularity among European nobility, including Queen Victoria’s court, in the 1800s, when individuals began keeping them as pets rather than for hunting.
Breed Origin
It’s unclear where this mixed breed originated because it’s a fairly new breed that’s become popular in the last few centuries. However, it is generally accepted that the Dorkie was first developed in the United States as a designer breed that combines the desirable characteristics of both the Yorkshire Terrier and the Dachshund.
The Yorkshire Terrier, sometimes referred to as a Yorkie, is a tiny toy dog that was first developed in the county of Yorkshire in England during the 19th century. This dog’s attractive attitude and good appearance made it a popular companion even after being developed to kill rats in textile mills and mines.
The Dachshund often called the Wiener Dog, is a toy-sized dog breed developed for hunting in Germany around the 15th century. Its long and slender body enables it to hunt badgers and other tiny animals that make their homes in burrows.
When two different kinds of dogs are crossed, the result is a Dorkie, a small, active dog with an influential personality. They are devoted and affectionate to their owners, and they get along fairly smoothly with youngsters, other animals, and their own kind. Dorkies are well-known for their intelligence as well as their ability to be trained, making them an excellent option for families who are searching for a tiny dog that is simple to train.
Physical Traits and Personality of a Dachshund Yorkie Mix
Your Dorkie’s appearance is completely unpredictable, as with most hybrid breeds. They can potentially inherit their parents’ positive and negative characteristics and physical appearances.
Appearance
Yorkshire Dachshund Mix sometimes has the face of a Yorkie but has the body of a Dachshund. They have tiny skull, but their ears are quite huge and floppy, and they hang on both sides. Although their hair is long and thick, it is not quite as long as that of the Yorkshire Terrier parent. Like the Dachshund parent, it has a long body and short legs.
The Dorkie dog’s weight is most likely between 6 and 12 pounds. And have a height that is anywhere between 5 and 11 inches. Thus, the dachshund-Yorkie cross will certainly be a toy breed of dog.
Coat
Three distinct kinds of the coat may be found on a Dachshund: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. Most dog breeds have two layers of hair, but a Yorkie only has one layer that looks like human hair. It is quite long, smooth, and straight, and it has a brilliant shine. The coat on a Dorkie can either be silky and long or fuzzy and short.
Color
The coat comes in black, brown, red, blue, or silver. They are also available in any color combination that consists of two or more of these shades. There is also the possibility of a dachshund having a two-tone coat, with black and brown being the most common combination. Alternative combinations of chocolate and tan include fawn and tan, gray and tan, and gray and chocolate. Alternately, they may have patterns like dapple or piebald coloring.
Temperament
These cute and remarkable companion dogs are known for their furious nature. Dorkie pups are people-pleasers, but they need constant attention. But because of this trait, they learn quickly and are easy to train. You may guide them in the direction of your decision by offering them a few tasty treats and presents.
They build the deepest relationship with the family member who showers them with the most care and affection, even though they adore every family member. Dorkies are lively and enthusiastic, yet overexcited kids might damage them during such activities. So, it’s important that you watch these activities or, better yet, don’t let kids do them alone.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Yorkie Dachshund Mix can differ significantly based on several factors, including genetics, nutrition, activity, and general health care. A Dorkie’s lifespan can range from 13 to 16 years on average.
As the life expectancy of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Dachshund is comparable, it is reasonable to anticipate that the Dorkie will also have a comparable lifespan. Hence, in order to guarantee that your Dorkie has a long and healthy life, it is essential to give it the appropriate care and to take it to the veterinarian on a regular basis for checkups.
Known Health Issues
A Yorkie Dachshund Mix can inherit health problems from any of its parent breeds. The following health issues are more common in this breed:
- Dental Issues: Yorkie Dachshund Mix are more likely to develop dental issues like tartar accumulation, gingivitis, and tooth rot than other breeds. It is essential to maintain the oral health of your Dorkie by giving them dental chews and toys consistently, as well as by brushing their teeth regularly.
- Patellar Luxation: It is a disorder in which the kneecap slides out of its normal position, producing pain and disability in the affected individual. It is a common issue found in toy and tiny pups like the Dorkie, and the solution may include surgical intervention.
- Obesity: Dorkies can get obese if they’re overfed and sluggish. It is essential to keep a close eye on your Dorkie’s weight and ensure that they have access to nutritious food and frequent exercise to prevent the development of health problems associated with obesity.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar causes extreme weakness, convulsions, and coma. Yorkie Dachshund Mix’s small stature and high metabolism put them at risk for hypoglycemia, which may require emergency veterinarian attention.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease: This ailment causes discomfort and mobility difficulties by degenerating or herniating spine discs. Because of their long backs and small legs, Dorkies, like their Dachshund parent breed, have a higher chance of developing this illness.
Quick Information
Care
A Yorkie Dachshund Mix demands your physical and emotional attention to care for it properly. You should provide your Dorkie with a food that is strong in nutritional value, well-balanced, and suitable for their size and age. It is important to prevent obesity and other health problems by avoiding overfeeding pets or feeding them table scraps.
They must be exercised frequently to maintain their physical and mental health. Take them on daily walks, play fetch, or do other things to keep their bodies and minds active.
They are smart dogs who must engage their minds and interact with other canines to avoid boredom and anxiety. You should teach them basic obedience, get them used to be around other animals and people, and shower them with attention and affection.
Exercise
Even though your Yorkie Dachshund Mix puppy likes to lie about all day, it still needs some exercise. They use a great deal of energy when they growl at inanimate objects or when they chase after other animals, such as cats.
The Yorkshire Dachshund mix needs 30–45 minutes of exercise daily. This might be broken up into two periods, one in which you go for a stroll and the other in which you play.
Grooming
No matter how long or short their hair is, Dachshunds should be brushed often. Long-haired puppies should be brushed every day. This dog breed does not shed too much and requires very little grooming and overall care.
Brushing a Yorkie Dachshund Mix daily is necessary to prevent matting its lengthy coat. You must keep your dog’s teeth, and ears clean consistently. In addition to that, be sure to cut your nails if they get too long.
Training
To train your Dorkie well, you need a lot of patience and many training sessions. Your dog will probably not listen to you when you try to train it. They are smart and clever, and they can choose whether to follow a command or not.
Doxie Yorkie can immediately detect when you are losing your temper; therefore, taking a break and giving yourself time to calm down is important. Punishing them can sometimes make things worse. Your primary goal should be training your pup in proper obedience while rewarding him with tasty goodies and fun toys.
Feeding
Most of the time, Yorkie Dachshund Mix puppies are picky eaters who will not consume all the food offered to them. It might take some time to find a food that they like. When you finally do, they will joyfully jump into it when they see it. Therefore, you should only feed your dog the highest-quality food to prevent stomach issues. Make an effort to include a variety of foods in their diet. Ensure they get enough protein and vitamins to keep their energy levels up and healthy.
Three Reasons to Avoid Dorkies
Although Yorkie Dachshund Mix has the potential to be wonderful pets for the ideal family, there are a few reasons why you might want to avoid having one as a companion animal in your own home. Here are three factors to take into account:
They Hate Being on Their Own
Dorkies are known for how much they love their owners and how much they don’t like being alone for a long time. They are prone to developing separation anxiety and, if left alone for an extended period of time, may act out destructively or vocally. This breed may not suit you if you’re too busy to pay attention to your Yorkie Dachshund Mix.
They Love Barking
Dorkies are well-known for their energetic and lively personalities, as well as their love of barking. They are fast to alarm at any imagined threat or danger which might disturb owners and neighbors. The constant barking of a Dorkie might not be ideal for you if you live in an apartment or have very near neighbours since this could disturb the peace.
They Love to Chase Your Cat
Dorkies have a powerful instinct to hunt and may be drawn to pursue prey as tiny as cats and rodents due to their intense hunting drive. If you already have a cat or another small pet in your house, a Dorkie might not be your best choice since their natural impulses could encourage them to hurt or harass your other pets, especially if they are smaller than them.
Three Reasons to Adore Dorkies
Here are three reasons you might want to adopt a Dorkie:
They Make Good Watch Dogs
Dorkies are well-known for their devotion to their owners and the natural urge to defend those they care about, making them ideal watchdogs. They are courageous despite their tiny stature and will bark to warn their owners of any potential threats or strangers. Those who are looking for a tiny dog that can also give a sense of security will find that they make wonderful companions.
They Are Apartment-Friendly
Because of their tiny size (Dachshund Yorkie Mix full grown average size is 5 to 10 inches) and low space requirements, dorkies are ideally suited for living in compact spaces such as apartments. They have moderate energy, so they may receive enough exercise from going on short walks and playing indoor games. Because of this, they are an excellent option for people who reside in restricted quarters or do not have access to a yard.
They Are Great Travel Companions
Dorkies are little, portable pets that enjoy going on adventures. They are of a size that allows them to be carried easily in a tote or travel bag, making it convenient to bring them along on adventures that involve flying, driving, or other modes of transportation. They can also quickly adapt to new surroundings and find comfort in various settings.
How Difficult Is It to Train a Dorkie?
Dorkies are known for their strong personalities, and training can be challenging. Nonetheless, Dorkies may be trained successfully with persistence, consistency, and praise.
Training a Yorkie Dachshund Mix successfully requires you to take the role of pack leader from the start. Dorkies can be stubborn; they might not want to be trained if they think they’re in charge. Your Dorkie will be more responsive to training if you establish a clear hierarchy in the house, so they know their role.
While teaching a Yorkie Dachshund Mix, it is essential to maintain a balance between keeping training sessions brief and interesting for the dog. Yorkie Dachshund Mixes have short attention spans and easily get bored, so training sessions must be fun and interesting. Your Yorkie Dachshund Mix may learn new orders and actions with positive reinforcement like treats, praise, and playing.
In order to successfully train a Yorkie Dachshund Mix, consistency is also essential. They respond well to consistency and structure, so keep to a regular training program. Your Yorkie Dachshund Mix will better comprehend what is expected of them if you are consistent in the orders, incentives, and punishments you give them.
How Much Exercise Does a Dorkie Need?
Dorkies are small dogs with moderate exercise needs. Because they come from a hybrid of two breeds with varied activity levels, the exact amount of exercise each dog needs may vary. Most Dorkies need between 30 minutes and an hour of exercise every day to stay healthy and happy.
A Yorkie Dachshund Mix can benefit greatly from frequent short walks as exercise. They like walking and exploring, although they may tire quickly. Dorkies enjoy various activities, including strolling, playing, and even doing things inside. They are flexible and can be happy in an apartment or small space if they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Playing interactive games with your dog, such as fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek, is a fantastic way to keep your Dorkie active and entertained.
Pros And Cons of Getting A Dorkie
If you’re considering getting a Yorkie Dachshund Mix, you should consider its pros and cons before making a decision. The following is a list of some of the pros and cons of getting a Dorkie:
Cons
- Health Problems: Dorkies often have health problems, especially because they are so small. They may be more likely to experience dental, joint, and other health issues. It’s important to know about these possible problems and take steps to stop them from happening.
- Hard to Train: Dorkies can be hard to train because they are stubborn. They have powerful personalities and may not react favorably to severe training methods. Using positive reinforcement and showing that you are the pack’s leader is essential.
- Separation Anxiety: When dorkies are left alone for lengthy periods of time, they might develop feelings of worry and sadness. If they are left alone for an extended period, they may engage in destructive activity or bark excessively.
Pros
- Attractive Appearance: Dorkies are a combination of two beloved breeds. They are small and compact, and their coats come in various colors and textures.
- Loyal and Loving: Dorkies are loyal and loving pets who like to spend time with their owners. They love to cuddle and are said to be highly loving.
- Apartment-friendly: Dorkies are an excellent breed for people living in smaller quarters because of their tiny size and low space requirements. They also have a moderate amount of energy consumption and do not call for much physical activity.
Interesting Facts
- Dorkies are low-shedding, hypoallergenic canines that are great for those who suffer from allergies.
- Dorkies are renowned for their robust personalities and a passion for being the center of attention.
- They are adaptable dogs that can do well in urban and rural settings.
- Dorkies have a strong prey drive and enjoy chasing small animals, so it’s crucial to always walk them on a leash.
FAQs
What Are the Grooming Requirements for a Dorkie?
Dorkies require frequent grooming to keep their high-quality, low-shedding coat from matting. The following is a list of the necessary grooming procedures for a Yorkie Dachshund Mix:
- Brushing: It is recommended that Dorkies have their coats brushed at least once a week to remove any stray hair and to prevent mats from forming. While carefully brushing their coat, you may use a pin or slicker brush.
- Bathing: Dorkies must be washed every 2-3 months or as required. To prevent skin irritation, lather your dog with a shampoo designed for sensitive skin, and give them a good rinse afterward.
- Hair Cutting: In order to maintain their coat in a nice and orderly fashion, dorkies may require occasional hair cutting. This may be done at home with scissors or clippers or by a professional groomer if you can access them.
- Teeth Cleaning: Dorkies often have dental problems, so brushing their teeth consistently with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste is essential.
- Nail Trimming: The nails of dorkies or Yorkie Mini Dachshund Mix should be cut once every 6 to 8 weeks to prevent them from getting very long and creating pain.
- Ear Cleaning: The ears of Dorkies should be routinely examined and cleaned to prevent infections. A veterinarian may suggest a good ear cleaner for your pet as well as give information on how to clean their ears securely.
What Kind of Food Should You Offer to Your Dorkie?
Small dogs like dorkies have special dietary needs that must be met for their health and well-being. Here are some suggestions for feeding your Dorkie:
- You should look for dog food that contains essential vitamins and minerals and high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish.
- Avoid dog food with fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause allergies and digestive issues.
- Dorkies’ stomachs are small, so they can’t eat big meals at once. To avoid stomach problems, you should provide them with a number of little meals spaced throughout the day.
- Dorkies are prone to obesity; therefore, they must watch their weight and adapt their food.
- A Dorkie’s daily calorie consumption should not exceed 10%, being made up of treats. Avoid high-fat, sugar, and salt foods and provide them occasionally.
- Make sure your Dorkie always has access to clean, fresh water.
Do Dorkies Make Good Family Dogs?
Yes, Dorkies can be great family dogs for the family. They are devoted, loving, and adore spending time in the company of their owners. They are extremely active and lively, making them wonderful companions for kids who like playing outside and running.
But, it is essential to remember that Dorkies have a strong instinct to hunt, so they may not get along well with other tiny pets such as hamsters or rabbits. They may be suspicious of strangers and need early socialization to avoid aggression toward unexpected people and pets.
Dorkies are little dogs that need sensitive handling; therefore, young children may injure them. Since they like peace and tranquility, it is possible that they will not perform well in homes where there is an excessive amount of noise and commotion.
Are Dorkies Hypoallergenic?
No, Dorkies aren’t hypoallergenic. The coat of a Yorkie Dachshund Mix can look like that of either parent. It can be straight or wavy, silky, soft, and prone to tangling. However, the topcoat sheds a lot, so the Yorkie Dachshund Mix is not a hypoallergenic breed. Frequent maintenance, such as brushing your pet once a week and bathing them once in a while, can help reduce shedding as well as the risk of allergic responses.
Summary
Dorkies are smart and cute, which are generally good qualities to have in a four-legged friend. Dorkies are so adorable it’s easy to forget how stubborn they are. They can easily adjust to either a single person’s home or a large household. They could be travel companions if you are often going in different directions. Their little stature is a benefit while traveling in such a manner.
There aren’t many diseases that affect Teacup Yorkie Dachshund Mix. Yorkie dachshund mix hypoallergenic nature makes them great pups due to their disease resistant nature. They have the potential to lead a healthy and long life if they exercise regularly and eat well. They are an excellent addition to the family and flourish in environments where they receive the appropriate amount of love and attention. So, if you’re considering getting a furry baby, ensure you have time to spend with it.
