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Shorkie Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shorkie so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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Shorkie dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States
Other Names
What other names does the Shorkie have?
Shorkie TzuYorkie Tzu
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed

Shorkie Size and Weight

Size
Is a Shorkie small, medium or large dog?

How big do Shorkie get?

What is the average size of a Shorkie?

Small
Weight
How much does the Shorkie weigh? How much should a Shorkie weight? What is the normal weight of a Shorkie? How much does a full-grown Shorkie weight?
5-15 pounds (2.3-6.8 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shorkie?
10 pounds (4.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shorkie? Shorkie height:
6-14 inches (15-36 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shorkie?
10 inches (25.5 cm)

Shorkie Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Shorkie puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Shorkie in the United States? How much money is a Shorkie?

Where to buy a Shorkie with a good pedigree?

$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Shorkie, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shorkie for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shorkie gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shorkie? How many Shorkie are there in the world?
Average: The Shorkie is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Shorkie Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Shorkie? Is the Shorkie breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Shorkie ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Shorkie dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Shorkie?
Shorkie dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Shorkie good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Shorkie dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Shorkie dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Shorkie dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Shorkie Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Shorkie have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
StubbornEnergeticLoyal
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shorkie sensitivity:
Shorkie dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shorkie a good family dog?
Average to High: Shorkie dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Shorkie Tzu need? Shorkie social needs:
Shorkie dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shorkie to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shorkie roam?
Shorkie dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shorkie have high prey drive?
Shorkie dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Shorkie dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Shorkie Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Shorkie is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Shorkie dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Shorkie Tzu bark?
Average to High: The Shorkie is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Shorkie good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Shorkie in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the Shorkie breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Shorkie Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Shorkie dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Shorkie be left alone? How long can you leave a Shorkie alone?
Shorkie dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Shorkie Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Shorkie has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Shorkie? How much bite force does a Shorkie have? How strong is a Shorkie bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shorkie bite force: Weak. The Shorkie bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Shorkie measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Shorkie may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Shorkie being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Shorkie bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Shorkie puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Shorkie can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Shorkie bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Shorkie Tzu? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Shorkie? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Shorkie has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Shorkie do?
Shorkie dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shorkie dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Shorkie Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Shorkie dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Shorkies tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Shorkie breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Shorkie breed? Most common health risks of Shorkie:
Dental ProblemsGlaucomaLiver IssuesLens LuxationBrachycephalic SyndromeHypoglycemiaRespiratory ProblemsSpinal Disorders
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Shorkie breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Shorkie see the vet?
Frequent
The Shorkie should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Shorkie dogs live? How old can a Shorkie be? What is the age limit of the Shorkie? How many years can the oldest Shorkie live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Shorkie?

How long is the lifespan of a Shorkie?

12-16 years
The average lifespan of Shorkie: 14 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.

Shorkie Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Shorkie have? What is the activity level of the Shorkie?
Shorkie dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shorkie need? How much exercise do Shorkie dogs require per day?

Do Shorkie dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shorkie dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shorkie breed need?
Shorkie dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Shorkie Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Shorkie need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Shorkie breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Shorkie? How much food should I feed my Shorkie?
1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Shorkie risk for obesity:
Average: The Shorkie has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shorkie weight regularly.

Shorkie Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Shorkie have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
StraightMedium
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Shorkie coats?
Black Red Blue White BrownFawn
Grooming
How to groom the Shorkie and how often? How often should I take my Shorkie to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Shorkie doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Shorkie is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Shorkie dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Shorkie Tzu? Do Shorkie dogs shed a lot?
Shorkie dogs are low shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Shorkie need a bath? How often should you give a Shorkie a bath? Can I bathe my Shorkie every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Shorkie breed hypoallergenic?
No
Shorkie dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Shorkie has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Shorkie drool?
The Shorkie is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Shorkie could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Shorkie.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Shorkie Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Shorkie dogs get along with other pets? Are Shorkie dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Shorkie dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shorkie temperament with other people:
Shorkie dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Shorkie dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Shorkie temperament with children:
Shorkie dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shorkie dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shorkie breed live with a cat?
Shorkie dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Shorkie good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shorkie dogs get along with other dogs?
Shorkie dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shorkie breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shorkie breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shorkie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shorkie dogs good office canines? Do Shorkie dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
Yes
Shorkie is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shorkie dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Shorkie Tzu temperament with senior people? Are Shorkie dogs good for elderly owners?
Shorkies are commonly okay with elderly people.

Shorkie As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Shorkie be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shorkie is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Shorkie be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Shorkie be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shorkie is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Shorkie be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shorkie is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Shorkie be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Shorkie is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Shorkie be a boat dog?

Not really

Shorkie breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Shorkie be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shorkie is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Shorkie dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shorkie Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Shorkie pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Shorkie breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shorkie: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Shorkie have in a litter? How many puppies can the Shorkie breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Shorkie have? How many puppies can a Shorkie give birth to?
3-5 puppies

Shorkie Recognition

AKC Group
Is Shorkie recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Shorkie recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Shorkie breed?
American Canine Hybrid ClubInternational Designer Canine Registry

Shorkie Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the Shorkie breed.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Shorkie doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Shorkie dogs are low shedders.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Shorkie is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Shorkie has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Mouthiness: Shorkie dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Office Friendly: Shorkie is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shorkie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Shorkies tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Shorkie dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Shorkie dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Cat Friendly: Shorkie dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.

Shorkie History

Shorkie is not a purebred, it is a designed hybrid which was created in the 90s in the United States along most of the other designer breeds but now it appears to be in Britain and Ireland where it is most in demand. The mix was created by crossing Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier and also known as Shorkie Tzu or Yorkie Tzu. Both parent breeds are a devoted small companion pedigree,  they are both friendly with an attractive appearance which is suitable for living indoors. Neither parent breed sheds heavily so that’s not a surprise that this is true for the Shorkie itself as well.

Although their history doesn’t date back for so long, since they just started to be purposely bred in the last two decades both parent breeds have an interesting and rich history. Shih Tzu is one of the oldest breeds in the world, originated in Tibet. This dog was deemed to be of royalty and lived in breath-taking temples. Presumably, the ancestor of the dog we know today had been given to an emperor of China around the era of the Qing Dynasty between 1644 and 1662. As time went by, China became known as the creators of this breed, more so than the original Tibet. Shih Tzu was often referred to as the Lion Dog as the Lion symbol played a large role in Buddhism, which is as we know the determining religion of the area since ancient times. As lions actually were not indigenous in the region but had traditional symbolic importance the Chinese tended to breed their dogs to look as similar to lions as possible. A  Chinese empress Cixi was the one who worked hard and carefully on breeding to get the result of the dog we know today. However, after the Communist Revolution, her large breeding facilities were destroyed, along with most of the dogs. Only a few Shih Tzus were saved and imported into England, where the breed was perfected in the early 20th century. The AKC recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969 as an official breed in the Toy dog class and currently is among the top 20 most popular toy breed dogs in the world.

The Yorkshire Terriers' origin is only dating back to the previous century. This breed was originally created for the purpose of catching rats in mines and households and were also used for hunting to borrow underground after badgers and foxes. The breed was named after the region of England in which they originated; Yorkshire. Several small Terrier breeds were combined to create the Yorkie breed. One of the ancestors of the Yorkshire Terrier among others is the Waterside Terrier, which is a small Scottish breed with a long blue-gray coat. The Waterside Terrier was brought to Yorkshire, in the mid 19th century by the miners and workers from Scotland, who migrated to England during the Industrial Revolution. The Yorkie made its first official appearance in England in 1861 during a bench show. At this time they were known as the “Broken-haired Scotch Terrier”. The Yorkie kept this title for 9 years until during one show a reporter commented that the breed should be known as Yorkshire Terriers because the breed had improved so much since their arrival in Yorkshire. The Yorkshire Terrier is also a fully acknowledged and recognized breed by the AKC and other noted international Kennel Clubs.

However, Shorkies are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, since they are a designed mix breed they are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry.

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Shorkie Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Shorkie Tzu

    Nov 14, 2020, 1:35:11 AM:

    Excellent