White Shorkies are a cross between a White Yorkshire Terrier and a Shih Tzu, making them a unique and adorable breed.
They typically weigh between 7-15 pounds, with a height range of 8-10 inches.
Their lifespan ranges from 12-18 years, which is relatively long compared to other breeds.
Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them great companions for families and individuals alike.
What is a White Shorkie?
A White Shorkie is a beautiful variation of the Shorkie breed, characterized by its white coat. They can come in a variety of patterns, including bicolor, brindle, and tricolor.
The Shorkie breed, which includes the White Shorkie, is a hybrid mix of the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. This combination results in a dog that's nearly hypoallergenic, with a low-dander coat that requires regular grooming.
White Shorkies, like all Shorkies, are small dogs, typically weighing between 5-12 pounds and standing between 6-11 inches tall. They have a medium energy level, which means they don't require hours of exercise, but they do need regular activity to stay happy and healthy.
One of the best things about White Shorkies is their loyalty and affection towards their families. They adore being around people and make great companions for families, children, and seniors alike.
Here are some key characteristics of White Shorkies:
White Shorkies are also prone to health issues, so it's essential to work with a reputable breeder and keep up with regular veterinary check-ups. With proper care and attention, a White Shorkie can live a long and happy life, typically between 11-16 years.
Physical Characteristics
White Shorkies are toy-sized dogs, with an average height of 5 to 9 inches. Their small size means they weigh between 5 to 11 pounds for males and 4 to 8 pounds for females.
Their coats are long and silky, low-shedding, and feel more like human hair than traditional dog fur. This type of fur tends to produce less dander, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.
The color variations of this breed are quite wide, with options like brown and white, red and gold, black and tan, or black and white.
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Appearance
The Shorkie is a tiny but muscular dog, typically weighing between 5-12 pounds and reaching a height of 6-11 inches.
Their long, silky coats are low-shedding and feel more like human hair than traditional dog fur, requiring daily brushing or regular grooming to avoid tangles.
Shorkies can come in a wide range of colors, including blue, red, black, brown, fawn, and white, with their face often darker than their body.
Their little triangular ears add to their alert look, and their short muzzle is a characteristic shared with their Shih Tzu ancestors.
Shorkies have a wispy and relatively thin tail that almost always sits curled over their backs.
Female Shorkies tend to be slightly smaller than males, weighing between 4-8 pounds and measuring 5-8 inches in height.
Their compact bodies and short legs make them a great fit for apartment living or for owners who don't need a large dog.
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Characteristics
Shorkies are normally bred in small litters, averaging between 1 to 5 puppies.
Their small size means that they weigh between 5 to 11 pounds for a male or 4 to 8 pounds for a female.
You can pay anywhere between $300 to $1000 for a Shorkie puppy, which is a relatively affordable price for a designer dog.
Shorkies are known for being loyal, energetic, and protective, making them great companions for many families.
Personality and Temperament
The white Shorkie's personality and temperament are a perfect blend of charm and energy. They make wonderful family pets and devoted lap dogs for owners who are ready to spend plenty of time together.
Shorkies are known for being alert, sensitive, and quick to bark at anything that startles them, whether it's a person, animal, or a floating leaf. Training and socialization in puppyhood will go a long way toward keeping your Shorkie healthy, happy, and less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors.
They're high-energy lapdogs that love playing and cuddling, but they have a short attention span and often act on impulse. This means they can be prone to barking at the mailman or chasing anything that moves, so they'll definitely keep you on your toes!
Origin and History
Shorkies are a relatively new breed, emerging in the US around the 2000s. Their popularity has grown significantly in the past decade.
Their ancestry is a mix of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Shih Tzu, two breeds known for being feisty and stubborn. These traits are often passed down to their offspring, the Shorkie.
Both parent breeds were originally bred for specific purposes - the Yorkshire Terrier for pest control and the Shih Tzu for companionship. This unique combination has resulted in a dog that is both loyal and outgoing.
The Shorkie's low-shedding characteristic is a desirable trait for many dog owners, making it a great choice for those with allergies or a preference for less dog hair.
Temperament
Shorkies are known for being high-energy dogs with a big personality in a small package. They love to play, but they also love to cuddle and will follow you everywhere around the house.
They can be prone to barking at strangers, other animals, and even floating leaves, so training and socialization are crucial from an early age. This will help them become healthy, happy, and less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors like digging or chasing.
Shorkies have a short attention span and often act on impulse, which can be both entertaining and challenging. They need a lot of attention, which can make them clingy and needy, but their high energy levels mean they can also enjoy long walks and hikes with you.
They're extremely popular with people who don't mind having a "dog shadow" because they love to interact with their human companions and are fiercely loyal. This loyalty can also be a double-edged sword, as they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Shorkies are not quiet dogs and will alert you to any potential intruders or other stimuli, making them excellent watchdogs. However, their small size and delicate nature mean they're not suitable for homes with very small children or other pets that may be too rough for them.
Care and Maintenance
The white Shorkie's coat is a beautiful sight to behold, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling. Daily brushing is a must, and trimming every 8 weeks is recommended to keep their fur in check.
To prevent dental issues, brush their teeth daily and have their teeth cleaned regularly by a vet. You can also use dental chews, but consult with your vet for the best approach.
Regular grooming sessions are a must, and it's essential to get your Shorkie used to being handled and groomed from an early age. This will make regular sessions a fun bonding opportunity, not a chore you both dread.
Here's a quick rundown of their grooming needs:
- Brush their coat daily
- Trim every 8 weeks
- Check eyes and ears regularly
- Wipe away tears several times a day
- Clip their nails
- Brush their teeth daily
Remember, their small size means they can't tolerate heat or cold well, so tailor your activities to their needs, not the other way around.
Living Needs
Pretty much any space will do for your shorkie, whether it's a studio apartment or a home with a fenced-in yard. You just need to provide her with enough physical activity and mental stimulation to keep her happy and healthy.
Make sure to take your shorkie on walks out in public and not just carry her around in your purse. This will help her get out on her own four feet.
Some shorkies will be lively and love to zoom around, while others will be content spending quality time on the couch. Pay attention to what your shorkie seems to enjoy most.
Interactive mechanical toys can be a great way to engage your shorkie's instincts safely and securely. A flirt pole with a fish on a string can be really fun to play with, especially inside.
Hide and seek is another great indoor game that engages your shorkie's terrier desire to search. If you've got a big chaser, you can even find a local lure chasing group to join.
Socialization is key when it comes to introducing your shorkie to other pets. If you've got a well-socialized pup, she should be fine with canine or kitty roommates, even if the Yorkie side of her family prefers to be the star of the show.
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Grooming Tips
Daily brushing is a must for Shorkies to prevent matting and tangling. Brush their coat every single day to keep it knot- and tangle-free.
You can keep your Shorkie's coat short to reduce daily grooming time, but this will mean regular trips to the groomer every 6-8 weeks. Regular grooming sessions can be a fun bonding opportunity if you get your Shorkie used to being handled from an early age.
Shorkies need their nails trimmed monthly, and their ears cleaned on occasion to prevent infections. Regular nail trimming will also help prevent scratching and damage to furniture.
Bathing your Shorkie too often can lead to skin problems, so try to limit bathing to once a month. If you must clean their coat, use a dry or foam shampoo specifically made for Shih Tzus or Yorkies.
You'll also need to clean your Shorkie's face regularly to prevent tear stains and keep their pretty little face clean. Wipe around their eyes several times a day to minimize tear stains.
Regular dental care is crucial for Shorkies, so brush their teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Your vet can instruct you on how to clean your dog's teeth, or you can use a dental chew for easier cleaning.
For more insights, see: Shorkie Grooming
Health and Wellness
White shorkies are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some health issues. They can live between 12-15 years with proper care.
One of the potential health conditions is patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislodges from its normal position. This is common in small dog breeds like the shorkie.
Dental disease is also a concern, as small dogs are prone to dental issues. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and dental cleanings can help prevent this.
Some other potential health issues include heart disease, Cushing's disease, and obesity. Heart disease and Cushing's disease are common in both shih tzu and yorkie breeds, so it's essential to keep an eye on your shorkie's health.
Here are some common health issues that can affect white shorkies:
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Heart disease
- Cushing's disease
- Obesity
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Glaucoma
- Lens luxation
- Hypoglycemia
- Spinal disc disease
By being aware of these potential health issues, you can take steps to prevent or manage them. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in keeping your white shorkie happy and healthy.
Lifespan
Shorkies have a life expectancy of anywhere between 11 and 16 years.
Their lifespan is relatively long compared to some other breeds, but they are prone to certain health issues.
Shorkies are known to live a good 11 to 16 years, which is a decent amount of time to spend with your furry friend.
Health problems can start to arise in their mid-to-late years, so it's essential to keep an eye on their well-being.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help identify any potential issues early on.
With proper care and attention, many Shorkies can live a happy and healthy life well into their teens.
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Health
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your Shorkie. They can live between 12–15 years, but there are some health conditions you should be aware of.
Small dog breeds like the Shorkie are prone to patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislodges from its normal position. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect this issue early on.
Dental disease is another common problem in Shorkies, which is why frequent teeth brushing, dental chews, and regular dental cleanings are crucial.
Heart disease and Cushing's disease are also potential health risks, as both parent breeds (Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers) are susceptible to these conditions.
Obesity is a significant concern, especially in small breeds, so it's vital to monitor your Shorkie's weight and feeding habits carefully.
Here are some potential health issues to watch out for in your Shorkie:
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Heart disease
- Cushing's disease
- Obesity
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Lens luxation
- Glaucoma
- Hypoglycemia
These health issues can be managed with regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, and plenty of love and attention. By being aware of these potential health risks, you can take steps to prevent or mitigate them and ensure your Shorkie lives a long and happy life.
Training and Behavior
Training a white Shorkie requires patience and persistence. Housebreaking can be a challenge, so it's essential to establish a routine with them, including regular feeding times and potty breaks.
Shorkies can be stubborn, but positive reinforcement and rewards like verbal praise and treats can go a long way in training them. They thrive on routine and clear boundaries.
Since Shorkies tend to get overly attached to their owners, it's crucial to set boundaries and use positive reinforcement without causing them to become defensive. This will help prevent separation anxiety and aggressive behavior.
Daily Life
Daily life with a Shorkie can be a challenge due to their high maintenance nature. They require a lot of love and attention, but it's worth it for the companionship they provide.
Their size can be difficult to predict, but looking at their parents can give you an idea of how big they'll get. Shorkies have a tendency to gain weight if they're overfed, so monitoring their food intake is crucial.
Giving them healthy treats is a great way to keep them at a healthy weight. Their small bladders mean they need to go to the bathroom more often than other breeds.
You may need to use treats to stimulate their high intelligence, as they're not interested in brain games. If you don't have a yard, keeping puppy pads around the house is a good idea.
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Training Your
Training your Shorkie can be a challenge due to their stubborn nature, but with positive reinforcement and rewards like verbal praise and treats, you can make progress.
Shorkies can be difficult to housebreak, so establishing a routine is key, including feeding them at the same time every day and letting them outside to go to the bathroom at the same time.
Persistence is essential when training a Shorkie, and short training sessions of two to three times a day are more effective than one long session.
Socializing your Shorkie with humans and other animals from an early age is crucial to help them become well-adjusted and confident.
Shorkies can suffer from separation anxiety, so it's essential to use positive reinforcement without causing them to become defensive.
By committing to regular training sessions and using positive reinforcement, you can help your Shorkie become a well-behaved and loving companion.
Are Aggressive?
Shorkies are not born aggressive, but they can develop unfriendly behavior if they're not socialized properly.
Small dog breeds often don't get enough exposure and training, which can lead to unwanted behavior. They might be picked up when they're loud or reactive, rather than being taught to behave calmly.
This can cause a Shorkie to become aggressive and bark ferociously from your arm. They might also nip at ankles or growl at you when you try to reach for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a shorkie a rare breed?
Yes, shorkies are a relatively rare breed, making them a unique addition to many American families. Their rarity is part of their charm, but there's more to this special breed than meets the eye.
Is a shorkie a good dog?
Yes, Shorkies make great companions for various family types, but their small size requires close supervision during playtime with young children. They're a wonderful breed for active singles, couples, and seniors who want a loyal and loving pet.
How big do shorkies get full grown?
Shorkies typically reach 7-10 inches in height and 7-16 pounds in weight as full-grown adults.
What is the average price of a shorkie?
The average price of a Shorkie puppy is between $700 and $2,000. However, prices can vary depending on the breeder and other factors.
What do shorkies look like fully grown?
Fully grown shorkies are small to medium-sized dogs with a muscular build, thin legs, and a distinctive triangular face. They typically have a short muzzle, curled tail, and erect triangular ears that add to their alert expression.
Sources
- American Canine Hybrid Club (achclub.com)
- Share on Pinterest (pinterest.com)
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- Shorkie - Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix - An Owners Guide (animalcorner.org)
- Shorkie Tzu Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- Shorkie - The Adorable Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixe (spiritdogtraining.com)
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