The Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix is a cross of a purebred Shih Tzu and a purebred Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Shorkie. It's a small dog breed at about 6 to 14 inches tall, weighing between 5 to 15 pounds. The lifespan of the Shorkie is around 11 to 16 years.
Shorkies are known to be great companions. They are small, affectionate, and playful. Keep reading to find out more about this lovable breed.
Shorkie Pictures
What is the Temperament of a Shorkie?
Your Shih Tzu Yorkie will be loving, loyal, playful, and intelligent. He will want to be with you constantly and will cuddle up in your lap at every chance he can. Early socialization is important for your Shorkie; he will get along with other animals and children as long as he is exposed to them at a young age.
Shorkie can become very attached to humans and can experience separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period of time. It is best not to leave him alone for more than a few hours at a time.
Get your cuteness for the day by checking out this video of a Shorkie puppy and a baby having a conversation!
What do Shih Tzu Yorkies look like?
Not to be confused with the Snorkie, Shorkies are small dogs with a medium length coat. Their legs and bodies are short, and they have floppy ears. They have shiny, silky hair and do not shed. Shorkie can come in various colors including black, white, chocolate, tan, red or any combo of these.
As mentioned above a full-grown Shorkie will be 5 to 15 lbs in weight and 6 to 14 inches in height.
What Care is Required for a Shorkie?
Due to their small size, Shorkies can easily live in apartments and a yard is not necessary. They require little exercise; 20 minutes of activity per day is enough for this breed.
Shih Tzu Yorkie mixes are sensitive to weather and will need to wear a sweater in cold temperatures. They also need to be brushed daily, and trim their coat every six weeks. They should be bathed once every two weeks.
Shorkies are predisposed to oral health issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease, so it is necessary to feed your furry friend dry dog food. A high-quality dry kibble that is specific for small dogs like a Shorkie is best. Recommended brands are:
- Iams Naturistic Adult Small Bites
- Simply Nourish Healthy Weight Small Breed Adult
- Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Dog Food
Are Shih Tzu Yorkies Easy to Train?
Shorkies are intelligent dogs and therefore are relatively easy to train. They do have a short attention span and can be stubborn, so you need to be patient with them. Keep training sessions short, and ensure that you remain upbeat and calm.
Shorkie mixes adapt quickly, and are well behaved. Your companion wants to please you and will work hard to do so. He will respond well to praise and treats during training.
It is also important to ensure that when training your Shorkie, you focus on one command at a time. Once he has mastered that command, you can move on.
Do Shorkies have any Health Risks?
As with any designer breed, Shorkies are at risk of developing any health conditions that are common for their parent breeds, Shih Tzus and Yorkies. Luckily, as mentioned in the first paragraph your Shorkie is a healthy breed with a life span of 11 to 16 years.
Health issues to watch for with your Shorkies include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Umbilical Hernia
- Eye problems
- Dental problems
- Kidney and Liver problems
- Ear infections
How Much Does a Shorkie Cost?
The initial cost of your Shih Tzu Yorkie mix will range from $375 to $1750. Shorkie's yearly medical needs will cost $435 to $535; this includes check-ups, shots, flea prevention, and insurance. Other yearly costs, such as food, toys, treats, training and grooming a Shorkie, will range from $530 to $630.
Conclusion
Shorkies are sweet, loyal, affectionate and playful dogs. They are intelligent, easy to train, and have minimal health risks. They are also incredibly cute!
They are good with children and would be a great companion dog for a family, a single person or older people.
Inviting this adorable breed into your home will bring you years of joy, friendship, and love. Your Shih Tzu Yorkie mix will follow you around, play fetch, and settle into your lap for cuddles at the end of the day.
