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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
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Dorkie known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Dorkie Terrier
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Dorkie? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Yorkshire Terrier and Dachshund mix

Dorkie Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Dorkie? Learn how big the Dorkie breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Dorkie weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Dorkie breed.
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 Range
How much does a Dorkie puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Dorkie costs.
$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

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Dorkie? Discover the Dorkie's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
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.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Dorkie? Learn about the Dorkie's trainability and response to training methods.
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 Rating
How good is a Dorkie as a watchdog? Learn about the Dorkie's alertness and guarding instincts.
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.
Territorial Protection
Is a Dorkie protective of its territory? Learn about the Dorkie's guarding instincts and behavior.
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

Personality Traits
What personality does a Dorkie have? Learn about characteristic Dorkie temperament and behavior traits.
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

Barking Frequency
Does a Dorkie bark a lot? Learn about typical Dorkie vocalization patterns and triggers.
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.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Dorkie? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Dorkie 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.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Dorkie live in an apartment? Learn about the Dorkie's suitability for apartment living.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Dorkie to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Dorkie's flexibility to new situations.
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.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Dorkie be left alone? Learn about the Dorkie's tolerance to solitude.
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 Risk Assessment
What is a Dorkie biting potential? Learn about the Dorkie's bite risk factors.

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.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Dorkie mouthy? Learn about the Dorkie's tendency to use mouth during play.
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.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Dorkie bite? Learn about the Dorkie's bite force measured in PSI.

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.

Dorkie Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Dorkie live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Dorkie breed.
13-15 years
The average lifespan of Dorkie: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Dorkie handle different weather? Learn about the Dorkie's climate adaptability.
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.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Dorkie? Discover typical conditions affecting the Dorkie breed.
Dorkies are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Dorkie need vet visits? Learn about the Dorkie's veterinary care requirements.
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.
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

Dorkie Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Dorkie? Understand daily activity needs of the Dorkie breed.
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

Obesity Tendency
Is a Dorkie prone to weight gain? Learn about the Dorkie's obesity risks.
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.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Dorkie need daily? Learn about the Dorkie's feeding requirements.
0.5 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Dorkie Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Dorkie hypoallergenic? Learn about the Dorkie's suitability for allergy sufferers.
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.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Dorkie come in? Discover all possible Dorkie color variations.
BlackGrayTan White Golden
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Dorkie need? Learn about Dorkie coat maintenance requirements.
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.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Dorkie drool a lot? Learn about the Dorkie's drooling habits.
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.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Dorkie smell bad? Learn about the Dorkie's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Dorkie has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Dorkie have? Learn about the Dorkie's fur characteristics.
SilkyThick
Bathing Needs
How often does a Dorkie need baths? Learn about the Dorkie's bathing requirements.
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.

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.

Dorkie Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Dorkie good with children? Learn about the Dorkie's behavior around kids of different ages.
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.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Dorkie get along with other pets? Discover the Dorkie's compatibility with other animals.
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.
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 Capability
Can a Dorkie be a service dog? Learn about the Dorkie's service work potential.

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 Work Suitability
Is a Dorkie good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Dorkie's therapy work aptitude.

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.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Dorkie good at detection work? Learn about the Dorkie's scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Can a Dorkie do search and rescue? Learn about the Dorkie's SAR capabilities.

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.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Dorkie good on boats? Learn about the Dorkie's maritime capabilities.

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.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Dorkie pull carts? Learn about the Dorkie's drafting abilities.

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.

Military Service Background
Was a Dorkie used in military service? Learn about the Dorkie's military history.

Not really

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

Dorkie Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Dorkie usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Dorkie pregnant? Learn about the Dorkie's gestation period.

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.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Dorkie have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

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.

Dorkie Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Dorkie in? Learn about the Dorkie's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Dorkie in? Learn about the Dorkie's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Dorkie? Learn about the Dorkie's official recognition.
American Canine Hybrid ClubDesigner Breed RegistryDesigner Dogs Kennel ClubInternational Designer Canine Registry

Dorkie Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Concerns: Dorkies are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Adaptability: 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 Rating: Dorkie dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle 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
  • Allergy Friendliness: Dorkie dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming Requirements: 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.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Dorkie dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Child Compatibility: 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: