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Dorkie Information & Dog Breed Facts

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

Group Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank338
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Dorkie dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States
Other Names
What other names does the Dorkie have?
Dorkie Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Yorkshire Terrier and Dachshund mix

Dorkie Size and Weight

Size
Is a Dorkie small, medium or large dog?

How big do Dorkie get?

What is the average size of a Dorkie?

Small
Weight
How much does the Dorkie weigh? How much should a Dorkie weight? What is the normal weight of a Dorkie? How much does a full-grown Dorkie weight?
5-12 pounds (2-5 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Dorkie?
8.5 pounds (3.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Dorkie? Dorkie height:
5-9 inches (13-23 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Dorkie?
7 inches (18 cm)

Dorkie Price and Availability

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

Where to buy a Dorkie with a good pedigree?

$400-$600
If you choose to purchase the Dorkie, 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 Dorkie for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Dorkie gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Dorkie? How many Dorkie are there in the world?
Average: The Dorkie 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.

Dorkie Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Dorkie? Is the Dorkie 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 Dorkie ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Dorkie dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Dorkie?
Dorkie 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 Dorkie good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Dorkie dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Dorkie dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Dorkie dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Dorkie 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.

Dorkie Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Dorkie have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulLovingIntelligentAffectionateGentleCheerful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Dorkie sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Dorkie dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Dorkie a good family dog?
High: Dorkie dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Dorkie Terrier need? Dorkie social needs:
Dorkie 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 Dorkie to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Dorkie roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Dorkie is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Dorkie have high prey drive?
Dorkie dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Dorkie Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Dorkies, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Dorkie dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Dorkie Terrier bark?
A lot: Dorkie is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Dorkie good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Dorkie in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the Dorkie 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.

Dorkie Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Dorkie dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Dorkie be left alone? How long can you leave a Dorkie alone?
Dorkie dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Dorkie Bite Characteristics

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Dorkie bite force: Weak. The Dorkie bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Dorkie measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Dorkie 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 Dorkie being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Dorkie 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 Dorkie puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Dorkie can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

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

Low 🔽

The Dorkie 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 Dorkie do?
Dorkie dogs have an 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 Dorkie dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Dorkie Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Dorkie dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Dorkies are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Dorkie breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Dorkie breed? Most common health risks of Dorkie:
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Skin Allergies
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Dorkie breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Dorkie see the vet?
Rare
The Dorkie should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Dorkie dogs live? How old can a Dorkie be? What is the age limit of the Dorkie? How many years can the oldest Dorkie live?

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

How long is the lifespan of a Dorkie?

13-15 years
The average lifespan of Dorkie: 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.

Dorkie Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Dorkie have? What is the activity level of the Dorkie?
Dorkie 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 Dorkie need? How much exercise do Dorkie dogs require per day?

Do Dorkie dogs need a lot of exercises?

Dorkie 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 Dorkie breed need?
Dorkie 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.

Dorkie Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Dorkie need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Dorkie breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Dorkie? How much food should I feed my Dorkie?
0.5 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? Dorkie risk for obesity:
Average: The Dorkie 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 Dorkie weight regularly.

Dorkie Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Dorkie have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
SilkyThick
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Dorkie coats?
BlackGrayTan White Golden
Grooming
How to groom the Dorkie and how often? How often should I take my Dorkie to the groomer?
Advanced: The Dorkie requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Dorkie a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Dorkie, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Dorkie dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Dorkie Terrier? Do Dorkie dogs shed a lot?
Dorkie dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Dorkie dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Dorkie need a bath? How often should you give a Dorkie a bath? Can I bathe my Dorkie every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. 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.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Dorkie breed hypoallergenic?
No
Dorkie 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?

Medium

The Dorkie has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Dorkie drool?
The Dorkie is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Dorkie 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 Dorkie.

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

Dorkie Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Dorkie dogs get along with other pets? Are Dorkie dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Dorkie dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Dorkie temperament with other people:
Dorkie dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Dorkie dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Dorkie temperament with children:
Dorkie dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you may have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from this breed.
Cat Friendly
How well do Dorkie 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 Dorkie breed live with a cat?
Dorkie dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Dorkie good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Dorkie dogs get along with other dogs?
Dorkie dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Dorkie is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Dorkie breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Dorkie breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Dorkie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Dorkie dogs good office canines? Do Dorkie dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Dorkie is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Dorkie dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Dorkie Terrier temperament with senior people? Are Dorkie dogs good for elderly owners?
Dorkies are not the best breed for elderly people.

Dorkie As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Dorkie 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).

Dorkie is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Dorkie be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Dorkie 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.

Dorkie is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Dorkie 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.

Dorkie is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Dorkie 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 Dorkie is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

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

Not really

Dorkie 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 Dorkie 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.

Dorkie is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

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

Not really

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

Dorkie Reproducibility

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

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Dorkie: 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 Dorkie have in a litter? How many puppies can the Dorkie breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Dorkie have? How many puppies can a Dorkie give birth to?
2-5 puppies

Dorkie Recognition

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

Dorkie Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Issues: Dorkies are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the Dorkie breed.
  • Shedding Level: Dorkie dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Dorkie is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Dorkie dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Dorkie dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Dorkie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Dorkie dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming: Advanced: The Dorkie requires a lot of grooming.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Dorkie is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Dorkie dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Child Friendly: Dorkie dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Dorkie dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Dorkie is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Dorkies are not the best breed for elderly people.

Dorkie History

Dorkies are a mix of  Dachshunds and Yorkshire Terrier. Like other designer dogs, they were developed in the United States over the previous 30 years. It's unclear why this breed was developed, however, it could simply have been to make a sweet-natured companion dog. Apartment residents, single- households, huge families, and the elderly are particularly fond of designer dogs. Basically, these cuties may be found in every sort of home. It isn't recognized as an official breed, thus no pedigree documents are available, and we still don't know much about it, although both parent breeds are having quite a rich history.

Both parent breeds are excellent hunters and were originally bred for hunting.

Dachshunds originated in Germany, where they were bred to hunt badgers and other underground animals. Their mission was made considerably easier by their short legs, long and thin bodies, strong lungs, and excellent sense of smell. These stunning canines captivated even Picasso. They were able to combat dangerous foes like badgers thanks to their independent nature, courage, and one-track mentality. These fearless small dogs even went boar hunting in packs! While they are still used for hunting on occasion, Dachshunds are now mostly kept as companion dogs. They're popular, and they're now ranked 12th on the AKC's list of the most popular dogs. Dachshund memes and videos abound on the internet, and this remarkable breed was the first official mascot of the Olympic Games, as well as the first dog cloned in the United Kingdom.

Dachshund is a combination of the German words 'Dachs' and 'Hund.' It literally translates to "dog of the badger." In modern Germany, the dachshund is known as Dackel or Teckel, with Teckel being more popular among hunters. Dachshunds are also known as wiener dogs or sausage dogs because of their long, slender, sausage-like appearance and structure.

Yorkshire Terriers first appeared in Yorkshire, England, in the nineteenth century. When Scottish miners migrated to Yorkshire, they carried their dogs with them, so Yorkies began their careers in mines, where they chased rats and other vermin. This resulted in their tremendous prey drive, which they still have today. They were recognized as a breed by the British Kennel Club in 1874, and by the American Kennel Club in 1885, the same year as the Dachshund was recognized as a breed. Yorkies have shrunk in size throughout time, and they are now usually maintained as companion dogs. They are presently ranked 10th on the AKC's most popular breeds list.

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Dorkie Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • anna

    Sep 9, 2019, 7:36:37 PM: