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Welcoming a new Shorkie puppy into your family can be an incredibly exciting experience. They typically weigh between 7-15 pounds and stand 6-10 inches tall at the shoulder.
Shorkie puppies are a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier, and as such, they can inherit the friendly and outgoing personalities of both breeds. Their small size makes them a great fit for apartment living.
Newborn Shorkie puppies usually have their eyes closed and their ears folded back, but they start to develop quickly. Their first teeth, or deciduous teeth, start coming in around 3-4 weeks old.
What to Expect
When bringing home a newborn Shorkie puppy, you can expect to spend a lot of time with your new furry friend. They'll need constant supervision and attention to ensure their safety and well-being.
Newborn Shorkie puppies are born blind and deaf, and their eyes won't open until around 10-14 days old. Their ears will also take some time to develop and become fully functional.
You can expect your newborn Shorkie puppy to weigh around 1-2 pounds at birth and grow rapidly in the first few weeks, doubling their birth weight by 2-3 weeks old.
Shorkie puppies are prone to hypoglycemia, a condition that can cause low blood sugar, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and provide frequent meals to prevent this.
Shorkie Characteristics
Shorkies are stunning little designer puppies that you can't help but adore. They are a crossbreed of a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier.
Shorkies are affectionate, energetic, friendly, loving, and sweet. They love their humans unconditionally and get on well with every dog and pet they meet.
They are also great with children and fantastic companion pets for seniors.
Friendly & Loving
Shorkies are just as much fans of cuddles as they are of adventures. They love their humans unconditionally.
Shorkies get on well with every dog and pet they meet. They are also great with children and fantastic companion pets for seniors.
Shorkies are loyal and affectionate, making them wonderful companions for first-time dog owners. However, they can be stubborn and need an owner who can be patient with them and train them daily.
With proper care and attention, Shorkies can thrive and become loving members of the family.
Shorkie Coat Type
A Shorkie's coat type can vary, but most inherit the silky single coat from their Yorkshire terrier parent.
Some Shorkies take on their Shih Tzu parent's long, flowing double coat.
Both coat types are easy on allergies as they don't shed much.
Shorkies typically have bi-color coat markings, with common color combinations being black and tan, blue and gold, and black and white.
Other possible coat colors include brindle, silver, liver, and red.
Worth a look: Black Shorkie Puppies
Are Shorkies Intelligent?
Shorkies are often incredibly smart, especially if they pick up more traits from their Yorkshire terrier parent. This is because Yorkshire terriers are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there.
Shorkies can be quite clever and pick up on things quickly, making them a joy to train and interact with.
Shorkie Care and Health
Shorkie care is crucial to ensure your pup leads a long, healthy life.
Shorkies are generally healthy dogs, but they can inherit health problems from their parent breeds. BOAS, or Brachycephalic Syndrome, is a common issue in Shorkies with shorter snouts, causing labored breathing and heat intolerance.
Regular vet checkups are essential to prevent serious health problems. By taking your pup to regular checkups, you can catch any potential issues early on.
Shorkies can also be prone to hip dysplasia, which can be managed by avoiding overexercise. Patellar luxation is another common issue, but it can be alleviated by keeping an eye on your pup's joint health.
Feeding your Shorkie a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and providing frequent meals can help prevent hypoglycemia. This is especially important for Shorkies, as they can be prone to low blood sugar.
Cost and Ownership
Newborn Shorkie puppies can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,000, depending on the breeder.
As a responsible pet owner, you should expect to pay around $75 to $180 per month on expenses like food, vet checkups, toys, treats, and grooming trips.
This cost can add up quickly, so it's essential to consider your budget before bringing a Shorkie puppy home.
Are Shorkies Expensive?
Shorkies are a pricey breed, with puppies costing between $700 and $2,000.
The initial investment is just the beginning - you can expect to pay between $75 and $180 per month for expenses like food, vet checkups, toys, treats, and grooming trips.
That monthly cost can add up quickly, so it's essential to consider it when deciding if a Shorky is right for you.
The high demand for Shorkies means their price can vary depending on the breeder, so be prepared to do some research to find a reputable one.
Overall, owning a Shorky requires a significant financial commitment.
Are Shorkies Suitable for Owners?
Shorkies can make wonderful companions for first-time dog owners as they're loyal, affectionate, and adaptable. However, they're often stubborn and need an owner who can be patient with them and train them daily.
Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for owners with varying lifestyles, but this also means they can thrive in a variety of environments.
Shorkies require daily training to manage their stubbornness, which can be time-consuming for owners who are new to dog ownership.
Finding a Shorkie
Shorkie puppies can be found through reputable breeders or rescue organizations.
Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, often conducting health tests on their breeding stock.
The average cost of a Shorkie puppy from a reputable breeder is around $1,000 to $3,000.
It's essential to research the breeder and ask questions about the puppy's parents, health clearances, and temperament.
You can also consider adopting a Shorkie from a rescue organization, which may have adult dogs available for adoption.
Rescue organizations often have a thorough adoption process to ensure the best match between the dog and the adopter.
On average, Shorkie puppies are ready to go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old.
Take a look at this: Puppys up for Adoption
Shorkie Overview
Shorkies are loyal companions that thrive on attention and affection, making them perfect for families who want a close-knit pet.
Their adaptability allows them to adjust to new environments and living situations, which is a huge plus for first-time dog owners who may not know what to expect.
Shorkies can be stubborn at times, so it's essential to establish a daily training routine to keep them on track and prevent unwanted behaviors.
They require patient owners who can understand and respond to their needs, which is a great opportunity for new dog owners to learn and grow with their pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Yorkie puppies look like when born?
Yorkie puppies are born tiny and fragile, weighing mere ounces with their eyes closed. They rely on their mother's care for nourishment and stimulation.
Are shorkies hard to potty train?
Yes, Shorkies can be challenging to potty train due to their energetic and stubborn nature. The Puppy Apartment is a solution that can simplify and accelerate this process.
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