Shorkie

Like most crossbreeds, the personality of a Shorkie depends on the parents and how they have been bred and reared. But both parents are affectionate dogs who bond closely to their owners.

The Shih Tzu is an extraverted, confident, affectionate dog who can be quite independent and aloof with strangers. Although quite intelligent, sometimes they can give the impression that training is optional for Shih Tzu dogs!

Like many of the designer crossbreeds, the Shorkie originated in the United States in a quest to find a small companion dog that didn’t shed and that would fit into any family’s lifestyle, no matter how small their home and garden.To understand more about the origin of the breed we need to look at the two breeds that go into the formation of the Shorkie.

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism which makes them burn energy at a high rate. This means that that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the dog feeding guidelines of his particular food.

The Shorkie will be happy with half an hour to an hour of walking each day, as long as they have plenty of games and owner interaction.

Health and common issues

One aim with crossbreeds is to dilute or eliminate any inherited health issues that may exist within one or other of the breeds. This dilution or elimination is only likely if only one parent is the carrier of any particular condition, and where this is a first cross (F1). As this can’t always be guaranteed, all parents should be health tested prior to breeding: Shih Tzu - they are also prone to luxating patellas, and are prone to dental problems and eye conditions. They also are a brachycephalic breed and so can have the health problems and breathing difficulties associated with a shortened skull and flattened face. Yorkshire Terriers - this is a fairly healthy long-lived breeds but like many small dogs can have issues with luxating patella and there are other health issues that require owners to ensure they get puppies from a reputable source. Information on health tests for both breeds can be found on the Kennel Club’s website or find out more about brachycephalic breeds here.

Space requirements

This is a small dog who can live in a flat or a smaller property as long as they have access to the outdoors for toileting and walks.

Training the shorkie

The Shorkie can be a clever dog, always up for learning tricks and games. They should be trained to walk on a lead and harness as well as come back when called. While this may look like a cute fluffy dog, the Shorkie can be surprisingly game when out and can chase squirrels and even the neighbour’s cat! This is a breed that needs early and ongoing socialisation so they gain confidence with people and other dogs.

Family friendly dog breeds

The Shorkie makes a fun companion but as they are small and rather delicate, especially as puppies, they suit families with older sensible children. As they bond strongly to their owner, they are often a one-person dog, even if they get on with other members of the family.