Shorkie Dog Breed Information:
The Shorkie is a mixed breed dog a cross between the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier dog breeds. Small, fierce, and loyal, these pups inherited some of the best qualities from both of their parents. Shorkies also go by the names Shorkie Tzu, Yorkie Tzu, and Shih Tzu-Yorkie mix.
Shorkie Dog Group: Mixed Breed Dogs.
Shorkie Height: 6 to 14 inches.
Shorkie Weight: 5 to 15 pounds.
Shorkie Life Span: 11 to 16 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
Shorkies usually have straight, medium-to-long coats, and they're generally considered to be a good choice for allergy sufferers. Shorkies are not well-suited for extreme weather. They'll likely need jackets in the winter and doggy sunscreen in the summer. The main colors of Shorkies are blue, black, brown, fawn, red, and white and any combination of these colors. Shorkies are mixed-breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Yorkshire Terrier parents.
Shorkie History:
The Shorkie dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Shih Tzu's with Yorkshire Terriers in the 2000's in the US. This breed has gained the most popularity in Great Britain and Ireland.
Shorkie Size:
Most weigh in at five to 15 pounds and range in height from six to 14 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger.
Shorkie Personality:
Many Shorkie lovers describe these dogs' personalities as being a big dog in a small package. They are a high-energy lap dog. They enjoy cuddle sessions just as much as play sessions and may want to get involved in your daily activities. Shorkies have short attention spans and can act on impulse. They are very prone to prey drive and may want to chase anything that moves, including birds, squirrels, neighbor cats, etc.
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Shorkie Health:
The Shorkie breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues Some of the more common health problems Shorkies suffer from include:
Hypoglycemia.
Brachycephalic airway syndrome.
Dental disease.
Glaucoma.
Lens luxation.
Shorkie Care:
As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Shorkie's regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim your dog's nails before they get too long--usually once or twice per month. Always have water available to your pup when you take them in your car year round and especially during the warmer months.
Shorkie Feeding:
An ideal Shorkie diet should be formulated for a small breed with high energy. You should be able to find an upscale pet food retailer near you. Look for a high quality food for your pup so they can have the best chance for a long healthy life.
Shorkie Coat Color And Grooming:
The main colors of Shorkies are blue, black, brown, fawn, red, and white and any combination of these colors. These pups are from regal lineage and not particularly suited for extreme weather. You'll likely need a coat in the winter for your dog, and you may need to apply sunscreen to the ears, nose, and sensitive areas where there's less fur coverage in the summer months.
Shorkie with Children And Other Pets:
Because the Shorkie is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. They are affectionate with family members but may not feel comfortable around kids they don't know. Always supervise child interactions. When it comes to other pets, Shorkies can get along with other animals if they are introduced early on.