Shorkie Dog: Ultimate Guide to Care, Temperament & Training

Ever wondered why Shorkies have captured the hearts of so many dog lovers across the U.S.? Combining the playful spirit of the Yorkshire Terrier with the affectionate nature of the Shih Tzu, the Shorkie stands out as a perfect companion for both families and individuals. At just the right size for apartment living, these nearly hypoallergenic pups offer a loyal and loving presence without the need for endless space.

We understand that choosing the right dog breed is a big decision, which is why we’re here to provide a comprehensive look into what makes Shorkies so special. From their charming appearance and expressive eyes to their manageable exercise needs and longer lifespan of 12 to 15 years, our guide will cover everything you need to know. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking to add a new furry friend to your home, discover why the Shorkie might be the ideal match for your lifestyle.

What Is a Shorkie Dog?

A Shorkie dog is a hybrid breed resulting from the cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie). Developed primarily in the United States over the past few decades, Shorkies are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but are registered by the American Canine Hybrid Club under names like “Shorkie Tzu” or “Yorkie Tzu.”

Origin and Development

Shorkies emerged as a popular designer breed, combining the Shih Tzu’s sturdy build with the Yorkie’s small size. This blend creates a compact dog typically standing between 6 to 14 inches tall and weighing up to 15 pounds. Their emergence reflects the trend of creating companion dogs that are well-suited for various living environments, including apartments.

Physical Characteristics

Shorkies possess a long, silky double coat that comes in colors such as black, white, brown, and tan. Their expressive eyes and sweet demeanor make them visually appealing. The breed’s low-shedding coat contributes to its nearly hypoallergenic status, making Shorkies a suitable choice for individuals with allergies. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat and prevent tangles.

Personality and Temperament

Shorkie dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on human companionship. Energetic yet adaptable, Shorkies enjoy playtime and short walks, fitting well into active households. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, while their lively and spunky personalities add to their charm.

Health and Longevity

The average lifespan of a Shorkie ranges from 12 to 15 years, though some may live between 10 to 18 years depending on their lineage and care. This longevity, combined with their robust health, makes Shorkies appealing companions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet contribute to their overall well-being.

Living Needs

Shorkies are well-suited to apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise requirements. They do not need a large yard or extensive physical activity, making them ideal for urban environments. But, they do require mental stimulation and social interaction to prevent boredom and ensure a happy, well-adjusted pet.

By understanding the unique blend of traits that define a Shorkie dog, potential owners can make informed decisions about whether this delightful hybrid breed aligns with their lifestyle and preferences.

History of the Shorkie

The Shorkie dog emerged in the United States during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Breeders aimed to blend the affectionate nature of the Shih Tzu with the spirited personality of the Yorkshire Terrier, creating a small, loyal companion. This deliberate crossbreeding sought to combine the best traits of both parent breeds into a single, desirable hybrid.

Origins of Parent Breeds

Understanding the Shorkie’s history requires exploring the backgrounds of its parent breeds:

Breed	Origin	Purpose	Key Milestones
Yorkshire Terrier	England, 19th century	Hunting rats in mines and mills	Recognized by England’s Kennel Club in 1886
Shih Tzu	China, over 1000 years ago	Companion dogs for Chinese emperors	Registered by the American Kennel Club in 1969

The Yorkshire Terrier originated in 19th-century England, where Scottish immigrant weavers developed the breed to control rodent populations in textile mills and mines. Over time, Yorkies transitioned from working dogs to beloved lapdogs among the English elite.

Conversely, the Shih Tzu has ancient roots in China, where it was bred as a companion for royalty. These dogs were further refined by breeders in Peking and England, improving their elegant appearance and friendly disposition. The Shih Tzu gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1969, cementing its status as a favored toy breed in America.

Development of the Shorkie

In the past decade, Americans began crossbreeding the Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu to create the Shorkie dog. This hybrid combines the Yorkie’s small size and lively temperament with the Shih Tzu’s sturdier build and affectionate nature. The resulting Shorkie is known for its long, silky coat, expressive eyes, and nearly hypoallergenic qualities, making it an attractive option for urban dwellers and families alike.

Even though being a relatively new breed, the Shorkie has quickly gained popularity due to its adaptability and charming personality. Shorkies typically stand between 6 to 14 inches tall and weigh up to 15 pounds, making them suitable for apartment living. Their intelligence and eagerness to please contribute to their ease of training, while their strong loyalty ensures they form deep bonds with their owners.

Overall, the history of the Shorkie dog reflects a successful melding of two well-established breeds, resulting in a companion that embodies the best attributes of both the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier.

Appearance

Shorkies exhibit a charming blend of their parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier. Their distinct features make them uniquely adorable and easily recognizable.

Size

Shorkies are small dogs, typically weighing between 5-15 pounds and standing 6-14 inches tall at the shoulder. This compact size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to carry. Their lightweight nature allows for convenient travel and handling, perfect for families and individuals alike. Shorkies maintain a sturdy build even though their petite stature, ensuring they remain active and playful companions.

Coat and Colors

The Shorkie’s coat is usually long and silky, reflecting the qualities of both the Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu. It can be straight, like the Yorkshire Terrier’s, or slightly wavy and denser, resembling the Shih Tzu’s coat. This versatile fur type requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its luster. Shorkie coat colors vary widely, including combinations of blue, red, black, brown, fawn, white, gold, and other hues. This diversity in coloration adds to their visual appeal, allowing each Shorkie to have a unique and vibrant appearance.

Temperament and Behavior

Personality Traits

Shorkies exhibit vibrant personalities even though their small stature. We observe that these dogs are fiercely loyal, friendly, and outgoing, making them delightful companions. Their playful nature keeps families entertained, while their high energy levels ensure they remain active and engaged. Shorkies possess sharp minds, which contribute to their ability to learn quickly and adapt to various situations. This combination of traits makes them not only affectionate but also highly interactive pets. Their captivating demeanor helps them form strong bonds with their owners, improving the overall household ever-changing.

Interaction with Family and Pets

Shorkies thrive in family environments, displaying exceptional compatibility with people of all ages. We find that they are particularly loving with children, inheriting the affectionate nature of the Shih Tzu parent. Their devotion extends to both adults and children, fostering a sense of togetherness and emotional support within the home. Shorkies are known to sense their owners’ emotions, offering comfort during difficult times, such as a wagging tail after a long day or a sympathetic nuzzle when someone is feeling down. Also, their ability to get along with other pets ensures a harmonious household. While most Shorkies are affectionate, some may exhibit varying levels of independence or clinginess, highlighting the importance of understanding each dog’s unique personality.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance ensure our Shorkies remain healthy and happy companions. We focus on their nutritional needs, grooming routines, and exercise requirements to support their well-being.

Feeding

Providing a balanced diet is essential for our Shorkie’s health. We feed them high-quality dog food customized to their age, weight, and activity level. Typically, adult Shorkies consume 1/2 to 1 cup of food daily, divided into two meals. Incorporating protein-rich ingredients like chicken or lamb supports their muscle development. We avoid foods with artificial additives to prevent allergies and digestive issues. Fresh water is always available to keep them hydrated. Also, incorporating occasional treats during training reinforces positive behaviors without overfeeding. Consulting our veterinarian ensures we address any exact dietary needs or restrictions, maintaining our Shorkie’s optimal health.

Grooming

Regular grooming keeps our Shorkie’s coat healthy and minimizes shedding. We brush their long, silky fur at least three times a week to prevent tangles and matting. Monthly professional grooming includes trimming their hair, especially around the eyes, to avoid irritation. Bathing our Shorkies once a month with a gentle, dog-exact shampoo maintains their coat’s shine and cleanliness. Dental care is equally important; we brush their teeth several times a week using veterinary-approved toothpaste to prevent periodontitis. Also, we regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections. Keeping their nails trimmed ensures comfort and mobility, contributing to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs

Meeting our Shorkie’s exercise requirements keeps them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks lasting 20 to 30 minutes provide essential physical activity and mental engagement. Interactive play sessions, such as fetch or tug-of-war, help burn excess energy and strengthen our bond. Shorkies enjoy puzzle toys that challenge their intelligence and prevent boredom. Socializing them with other dogs and people during these activities fosters good behavior and reduces anxiety. Indoor playtime is also beneficial, especially in apartment settings, ensuring our Shorkies remain active and entertained. Balancing structured exercise with free play supports their lively and affectionate nature.

Health

Maintaining the health of our Shorkie dogs ensures their longevity and quality of life. We prioritize regular veterinary check-ups and proactive care to address any potential issues promptly.

Common Health Issues

Shorkies may face several inherited health conditions from their parent breeds, requiring vigilant care. Key issues include:

1. Portosystemic Shunts: This rare vascular defect involves abnormal blood vessels bypassing the liver, impairing detoxification processes. Though uncommon, it can be hereditary. Early detection through veterinary exams is crucial for effective management and treatment.
2. Tracheal Collapse: Both Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers are prone to tracheal collapse, where the tracheal cartilage weakens and flattens. This condition causes a persistent, honking cough that intensifies with exercise, heat, or stress. Managing weight and minimizing triggers help reduce symptoms.
3. Eye Problems:
4. Cataracts: The lens becomes cloudy, potentially leading to vision impairment or loss. Surgical intervention often restores vision.
5. Dry Eye Syndrome: Inadequate tear production results in red, irritated eyes, discomfort, and potential corneal damage. Regular ophthalmic care and medications manage this condition effectively.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care play essential roles in managing these health issues, ensuring our Shorkies lead healthy, active lives.

Lifespan

Shorkies typically enjoy a lifespan ranging from 11 to 16 years, benefiting from the longevity traits of both Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers. Genetics play a important role in their lifespan, but proper care further extends their years. Providing a balanced, high-quality diet customized to their age and activity level supports their overall health and energy. Regular exercise, including daily walks and interactive play sessions, maintains their physical and mental well-being. Routine veterinary visits help early detection of health issues, allowing for timely interventions and vaccinations. Maintaining a stress-free environment, along with consistent dental care, also contributes to their longevity.

Ensuring their coat is regularly groomed prevents skin conditions and infections. Social interactions and mental stimulation keep them emotionally healthy, reducing the risk of behavioral issues. With diligent care, some Shorkies live up to 18 years, offering long-term companionship. By focusing on preventive healthcare and creating a nurturing home, we enhance our Shorkies’ lifespan, ensuring they remain vibrant and active members of our families for many years.

Training

Training a Shorkie dog requires a structured and positive approach to cultivate their best behaviors and intelligence.

Training Tips

We prioritize consistency and positive reinforcement when training our Shorkies. Utilizing reward-based methods like high-value treats and enthusiastic praise effectively encourages good behavior. Maintaining regular training sessions prevents confusion and reinforces desired actions. Implementing short training sessions—lasting 5 to 10 minutes, two to three times daily—keeps our Shorkies engaged and prevents boredom or exhaustion. Breaking down commands into manageable steps enhances understanding and retention, ensuring our dogs remain focused and responsive. Also, incorporating a variety of commands and gradually increasing difficulty levels helps maintain their interest and accelerates the learning process. By consistently applying these training tips, we foster a well-behaved and obedient Shorkie that adapts smoothly to household routines.

Intelligence and Learning

Shorkies demonstrate high intelligence, a trait inherited from their Yorkshire Terrier lineage, enabling them to learn quickly and adapt to new commands efficiently. But, the Shih Tzu influence may introduce some variability in their cognitive abilities, requiring customized training approaches. We leverage their smart nature by introducing interactive training exercises that stimulate their minds and enhance problem-solving skills. Utilizing diverse training techniques, such as clicker training and puzzle-based commands, keeps our Shorkies mentally engaged and eager to learn.

Recognizing their cognitive strengths allows us to carry out advanced training methods, fostering a strong bond and obedience. Also, providing regular mental stimulation through varied activities helps prevent behavioral issues and supports their overall well-being. By understanding and catering to their intelligence, we ensure our Shorkies become loyal, well-adjusted companions.

Breeding and Adoption

Shorkie dogs are cherished for their affectionate nature and compact size. Understanding the breeding process and available adoption options ensures responsible ownership.

Breeding

Shorkies originate from crossing Shih Tzus with Yorkshire Terriers. This hybrid breed typically exhibits traits from both parents, including a small stature and friendly temperament. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, adhering to best practices to minimize health risks associated with hybrid breeds. By focusing on genetic health and proper socialization, breeders ensure Shorkies are well-adjusted and thrive in various environments.

Finding a Breeder

Finding a reputable Shorkie breeder involves careful research to avoid puppy mills. Consider the following breeders known for their commitment to quality:

• Pilesgrove Pups: Located in Spring Valley, New York, they offer Shorkie puppies with a 10-year health guarantee and provide nationwide delivery.
• Premier Pups: Based in Greenburgh, New York, they collaborate with top breeders to help the adoption of Shorkie puppies.
• Greenfield Puppies: This platform connects potential owners with various breeders, ensuring a range of Shorkie options.

When selecting a breeder, verify their credentials, visit their facilities if possible, and inquire about health screenings to ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Adoption Options

Adopting a Shorkie provides a loving home to a dog in need. Platforms like Adoptapet offer many Shorkies available for adoption through shelters and rescue organizations. These platforms connect potential owners with dogs that need homes, promoting responsible pet ownership and reducing the demand for puppies from breeders. Also, local animal shelters and breed-exact rescues are valuable resources for finding Shorkies available for adoption. By choosing adoption, owners contribute to the welfare of animals and find well-cared-for companions.

Conclusion

Choosing a Shorkie means welcoming a loyal and affectionate companion into our lives. Their delightful personalities and adaptability make them perfect for various living situations. We appreciate their blend of intelligence and playfulness which brings joy and energy to our homes. By providing the right care and attention Shorkies thrive and become cherished members of our families. If you’re looking for a vibrant and loving pet a Shorkie might just be the perfect fit. Embracing a Shorkie ensures many happy years filled with companionship and unconditional love.