Description: The Shorkie is a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier and is a hybrid dog. The Shorkie tends to have a long coat as both breeds used in the breeding of the Shorkie have, both are low shedding and both have hair that grows long. The height is from 6-11 inches and the weight is 5-11 pounds. This is a small dog. The face tends to lean towards the face of the Shih Tzu with the body being sturdy like the Shih Tzu and not as fine as the Yorkshire Terrier. The ears tend to hang down but there are Shorkies that ears are pricked like the Yorkshire Terrier. The coat is fine and long. The colours are varied and have no set look. With hybrids it is often the temperament that is more important and in this case that is what is wanted along with a good coat that is low allergy.

History: The Shorkie has been around for over 18 years and was one of the first new hybrids or designer dogs that started to look at dogs in a new light this is that people wanted dogs for the temperament and low allergy rather than mainly the look. The Shorkie has managed to get both and you get the temperament and the looks in this new breed. Started in the USA the fame has spread across the globe and Shorkies can be found in most countries now.

Temperament: It is always best to read up on both breeds used to make this hybrid dog. Overall this dog has a really good temperament and they are bright dogs that can be trained easily. The owner needs to set house rules and give boundaries. The dog will love a calm leader and someone that is able to allow this dog to be a dog. They are good with children, more children of school age rather than very young children and love to play. They can be timid and shy and this can be helped with lots of good socializing as a young pup. They are friendly to most people and are outgoing most of the time. They are good travelling companions and love to be with the owner. They are intelligent and like to use their minds in play and training. They need to have walks daily and this helps burn off some energy. They can have small dog syndrome and this is where the balance for the dog has been lost and they think they have to be in charge. This doesn’t have to happen if rules are set and kept. If they do get small dog syndrome then this dog can become barky, snappy and possessive none of which is in the breed but is a result of how they are treated. There is debate on whether they are quick to potty train so you may have to work hard at this but some say that they have potty trained their pup in as little as six days. They can be independent but will love to cuddle up with you when they want to.

Health issues: Both breeds used for this cross have health issues and it is best to read up on these. If you get a good breeder then they should have health certificates to show that the dogs used in the breeding program are of good health. There are extra tests that can be done and these are for kidney and joint problems.

Grooming: Due to the length of the coat, of the Shorkie, grooming will need to be done daily. You can get your dog a puppy cut and this helps with the grooming needs of the Shorkie.

Living conditions: The Shorkie can live in an apartment and providing their needs are met of daily walks and play sessions they are happy with a small garden.