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The Shorkie dog breed is a tiny fluffball with a big personality. Learn more about living with this designer breed!
The charming Shorkie is a crossbreed from mixing the Shih Tzu with a Yorkshire Terrier. He goes by the names Shorkie Tzu, Yorkie Tzu, and sometimes Shih Tzu-Yorkie mix.
The Shorkie dog is a spunky and energetic pup who ideally grows up to be a happy balance of both purebred parents. Described to be high in energy, he enjoys play sessions as much as curling up on your lap.
For those who suffer from allergies, he makes a popular option to embrace and smooch without worrying about an allergic reaction.
He was purposely bred to function as the ultimate canine companion for being cuddly yet fiercely loyal to the whole family. The outcome has given us a wonderful breed for all ages.
Today, the Shorkie breed enjoys growing popularity as an adorable furry friend with so much love to give good. He cherishes nothing more than the love of his human.
The American Kennel Club does not recognize the breed. Since it is not truly a breed of its own, it can’t be AKC registered.
Shorkie Dog Breed Standard
Since the Shorkie does not appear in the registry, there are no standards that Shorkie breeders are aiming for. Looks and sizes are not as certain as those of purebreds.
Crossbreeds don’t offer this predictability so it can be hard to envision which parent they’ll take after in terms of appearance or temperament. But for Shorkie World, their fur babies come in many sizes and colors.
The father is the Yorkie and the mom is always the Shih Tzu. Otherwise, it will not be considered by the association. Reverse breeding does not produce the ideal offspring.
The following characteristics do not apply to all Shorkie puppies that you will find on the internet nowadays.
Height and Weight
The Shorkie dog ranges from 5 to 9 inches tall and weighs between 4 to 10 pounds when fully grown depending on their genetics. This makes them perfect for a lapdog and ideal for different kinds of lifestyles.
Coat
His hypoallergenic fur is straight and silky. The hair comes in various colors including red, black, beige, and white with parti-color patterns and markings.
Features
Aside from being small, he is sturdy with a rounded head and ears floppier than those of the Yorkie. He has a short snout and a slight underbite inherited from the Shih Tzu.
Shorkie Family Life
The Shorkie breed is affectionate and gets along with everyone. They are clingy and want to be the center of attention.
When left alone, they may suffer from separation anxiety. So, they do best in a home with someone around them most of the time.
They form a deep bond with their owner but contrary to popular belief, they are not a one-person dog. This doggo loves all members of the household fairly.
Their cheerful self will gladly entertain strangers. Although friendly, they tend to bark at the slightest disturbance making them an alert small watchdog.
Most of the time, they are laid back, contently lying on a corner until ready to play or go for a walk.
The Shorkie dog breed is a non-aggressive pooch towards children and other household pets. They play and romp around but are quick to chill when it’s time to settle down.
This gentle and sweet pup does well with kids but may get injured easily in play due to his size. And just like all breeds, no matter the size, always teach children how to approach and treat dogs.
The Shorkies can be great buddies but no matter how friendly, you should never leave them all by themselves with a child.
Shorkie Dog History
Designer breeders intentionally mixed the Shih Tzu with Yorkshire Terrier in the 2000s in the US. Shorkie dogs were created for families with children and homes who want to share their lives with special fluffballs.
The effort was successful and thus continued the development as demand for Shorkie puppies rose.
While not recognized by AKC, the American Canine Hybrid Club acknowledges the crossbreed and you may even enter your pooch to the International Designer Canine Registry.
Shorkie Breed Health
Shorkie breeds inherited some of the best traits from their parent breeds, along with good health.
Therefore, they are generally healthy but there is no guarantee that they will not inherit ailments, such as:
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
This condition happens when the femoral head begins to degenerate. Over time, it will cause the collapse of the hip leading to arthritis.
An affected dog usually limps only one rear leg. Mild cases are often controlled with medical therapy.
Von Willebrand's Disease
It is caused by a deficiency in the protein needed to help platelets form clots in sealing broken blood vessels. Prolonged bleeding can raise suspicion of the disease.
Tracheal Collapse
This happens when the tracheal rings flatten making it difficult for air to get to the lungs. Both the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier are often affected by this making the Shorkie puppy prone to it.
This is a progressive disease despite treatment. Even pets who had surgery often take medications for life.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
This is an immune system disease in which the body itself destroys its red blood cells. The dog will tire more easily and may faint due to insufficient red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues.
Hypothyroidism
This is caused by a thyroid hormone deficiency. Hypothyroidism may lead to infertility, obesity, and lack of energy.
Although not curable, it is manageable with oral medication and a proper diet throughout his life.
Hip Dysplasia
It is the malformation of the hip joints as the dog ages. It can cause pain and lameness and, over time, into arthritis.
This may be hereditary but becomes worse due to environmental factors such as rapid growth from a change of diet or incurred injuries.
Glaucoma
It is an eye disease in which the pressure within the eye is increased. Glaucoma is caused by inadequate drainage of aqueous fluid, not by overproduction.
In severe or advanced cases, medical treatment often is combined with surgery.
RELATED: Glaucoma in Dogs
How to Care for Shorkies
Exercise
Shorkie dog breeds require minimal exercise. So, they are in high spirits just by walking around the neighborhood or in parks.
They need about 30 minutes of daily exercise. This can be satisfied with playtime, such as a game of fetch.
Once done burning off the pent-up energy, they’ll be content by simply keeping you company.
Training
Both purebred parents are known for being stubborn and difficult to house train so it is expected to happen when training Shorkie pups.
Hence, early training is vital to curb unwanted habits and instill canine behaviors.
These fur babies respond best to positive reinforcement and happily learn when rewarded with treats. Just make sure not to spoil them too much.
As an offspring of willful parent breeds, training may be challenging. But if done consistently, then you’ll have the best results disciplining your pooch in certain situations.
They are territorial unless introduced early to other animals. Otherwise, they will fearlessly challenge other dogs even the ones larger than themselves.
Early socialization will help avoid their aggression to protect their space and people.
Despite all the efforts, these furry friends are more often than not in a happy mood with tails wagging constantly to show their willingness to please you.
Grooming
The Shorkie is considered to be high in maintenance. He requires daily brushing and a trip to the groomer every month to keep him looking his best.
Both purebred parents do not shed, so his long, silky hair will not be all over the furniture. Still, the upkeep of fur requires time and effort.
The coat needs to be combed every day to prevent tangles.
Preferably have the puppy cut to give him the well-known teddy bear-like appearance. There’s no denying that the cut is super appealing.
Like most small breeds, the Shorkie dog is susceptible to dental issues. He will need a regular dental check-up.
A daily oral care routine will help the teeth and gums stay healthy which will help his overall health.
Trim nails once or twice a month, as long as you don't hear them clicking on the floor.
Check the ears regularly for debris and pests. Clean them as recommended by your vet to avoid infection.
Shorkie Diet and Nutrition
The Shorkie breed tends to gain weight if overfed, so there should be a regular feeding schedule. Divide the food into two meals as opposed to once a day.
Your pet’s ideal diet should be intended for a small breed with a high energy level. High-quality dog food should do well to give him the best chance for a long healthy life.
Look for nutritious treats but avoid overfeeding. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations to find out the nutrients needed at different stages of life.
Ideal Owner of Shorkie Dogs
The Shorkie dog breed’s small size makes him good in apartments and small spaces. He makes an ideal family dog as he requires minimal physical and mental stimulation and does not shed.
This loving doggo has the attitude to be a fine home protector as he is quite vocal and will announce visitors who’d come knocking on your door.
He gets along with all family members though he is fragile with children who play rough. Excited kids may knock him down but he’ll love them with all his teeny-tiny heart.
As he actively roams around the house, you may keep pee pads as this cute canine fluffball has such a small bladder and may need frequent potty breaks.
Shorkies do not suit extreme temperatures. They may need sweaters to keep warm in the winter.
During the hot months, you may need to apply dog sunscreen where there’s less fur coverage and extra care to prevent them from overheating.
FAQs about Shorkie Breeds
Is the Shorkie dog breed a good pet?
Shorkie dogs make wonderful family pets as they are sweet-natured. They are devoted lap dogs and do not appreciate being left alone making them great canine companions for seniors.
Is the Shorkie dog breed aggressive?
Although not born aggressive, they can develop unfriendly behavior if not trained early and exposed to the environment, people, and positive experiences.
Shorkie breeds become territorial and without a doubt challenge bigger animals to protect their space.
Does the Shorkie dog breed like walks?
Shorkie dog breeds may be active but are not demanding long walks with their short legs. They are content with several short walks and some playtime in a fenced yard or dog park.
Shorkie Dog Breeds Summary
If you want pups that are small but mighty, Shorkies could be the right canine companions for you!
You will surely fall in love with these lovable doggos. Aside from being sociable, they are very adaptable to many lifestyles.
These mixed-breed dogs crave human interaction making them compatible with just about any owner who’s ready to spend lots of time together.
Also, they make a popular option for all families due to the hypoallergenic quality of their coats.
So, are they the dogs that you desire?
People purchase Shorkie dogs without the ability to commit to the lifetime of these animals. If you want to bring a dog home, consider adopting one.
There are many Shorkie breeds in need of fostering.
Still, gather more information before getting a puppy of your own to see compatibility with your lifestyle.
You may visit various breeders and see the dogs yourself. Find a reputable breeder who will show health clearances to prove they are clear of health conditions.
The Shorkie Club of America is dedicated to the ethical development of Shorkie puppies. The founder, Stefanie Bailey, devoted herself to helping fellow enthusiasts achieve breed standards.
She solely focuses on the betterment of the crossbreed while protecting and supporting responsible breeding and pet ownership.
The organization built its reputable website to help fur parents like you as you consider adding Shorkie dog breeds to your home.
