Introduction

The Shorkie is a charming blend of two beloved miniature breeds known for their luxurious, flowing coats: the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. Also affectionately called Shorkie Tzu, Yorkie Tzu, or simply a Shih Tzu-Yorkie mix, this hybrid is a relatively recent addition to the dog world and is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Because the Shorkie lacks an official breed standard, their looks and personalities can vary widely. However, the well-established breed standards of the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier offer valuable insight to help you anticipate your Shorkie’s traits.

The Shih Tzu has a regal history as a cherished companion in ancient Chinese courts. Despite their name meaning “little lion” in Mandarin, these dogs are gentle and loving. Yorkshire Terriers, on the other hand, were bred in 19th-century England by Scottish weavers to keep textile mills and mines free from pesky rodents.

When you bring together these two spirited companions, you get a Shorkie—a tiny dog bursting with personality. While their small frame means they don’t require much room, their silky, long coats demand dedication and time for grooming.

Caring for a Shorkie

Thanks to their petite size, Shorkies adapt wonderfully to many living environments, from cozy apartments to spacious homes. But creating the perfect environment for your Shorkie takes commitment.

These affectionate dogs thrive on social interaction. Both the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier were bred to be close human companions, and their Shorkie offspring cherish this bond. Shorkies generally gel well with family members of all ages and can get along with other pets. Still, given their delicate size—standing just 7 to 10 inches tall and weighing a mere 7 to 16 pounds—it’s important to supervise playtime with young children and larger animals to prevent accidental injuries.

Your Shorkie’s gorgeous, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, while monthly baths keep their fur clean and soft. Though they love snuggling in your lap, they still need about 30 minutes of daily exercise to stay both physically and mentally sharp.

Shorkie Health Issues

Both Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy breeds, with life expectancies ranging from 10 to 18 years and 11 to 15 years, respectively. You can expect your Shorkie’s lifespan to fall comfortably within these ranges.

Nevertheless, like all dogs, they can inherit certain health conditions from their parents. This makes it crucial to choose a reputable Shorkie breeder who prioritizes health, including conducting genetic screenings prior to breeding.

Here are some health concerns seen more frequently in Shih Tzus, Yorkies, or both breeds:

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its usual groove in the thigh bone—a condition particularly common in small dogs like the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier. While some pups experience no issues, severe cases can cause pain and mobility problems requiring surgical intervention.

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a progressive condition where harmful bacteria build up in the mouth, damaging gums, bones, and tissues. Small breeds are especially vulnerable to this condition. Mild cases can be managed with professional dental cleanings, but severe cases may lead to tooth extractions. Frequent home brushing (at least three times a week) paired with regular vet visits is the best defense.

Portosystemic Shunts

Though relatively rare, both Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers are prone to portosystemic shunts—abnormal blood vessels that divert blood away from the liver’s filtering system. This means toxins and waste aren’t properly removed from the bloodstream, potentially causing serious health issues. Treatment ranges from surgery to medical management with diet changes and medication, depending on severity.

Tracheal Collapse

The trachea, or windpipe, supported by C-shaped cartilage rings, can weaken or collapse in small breeds like Shih Tzus and Yorkies. This condition leads to a distinctive honking cough that worsens with activity, heat, excitement, or pressure on the windpipe. Most dogs respond well to medication, and walking with a harness instead of a collar helps ease strain. Surgery is reserved for severe cases.

Eye Problems

Thanks to their Shih Tzu lineage, Shorkies may be susceptible to several eye conditions:

• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye lens that hinders vision and may progress to blindness; often treatable with surgery.
• Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production causing redness, discomfort, and discharge; typically managed with medicated eye drops.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of hereditary disorders leading to gradual vision loss and eventual blindness with no known cure.

What To Feed a Shorkie

Every Shorkie is unique, so developing a feeding routine tailored to your dog’s age, weight, and health is essential. Collaborate with your veterinarian to choose a diet that offers complete nutrition. Since Shorkies have small teeth, selecting appropriately sized kibble is important for comfortable eating.

How To Feed a Shorkie

Shorkie puppies require frequent meals—three to four daily—to prevent dangerous drops in blood sugar. Adult Shorkies can transition to two or three meals per day. Your vet can guide you on the best schedule that fits your dog’s needs.

How Much Should You Feed a Shorkie?

Most dog food labels include general feeding guidelines based on weight, but your vet can provide personalized portions based on your Shorkie’s body condition, activity level, and health. Remember to include treats in the daily calorie count; for small dogs, these should never exceed 10% of total caloric intake.

Nutritional Tips for Shorkies

When fed a complete and balanced diet approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), Shorkies usually don’t need supplements. However, your veterinarian may recommend supplements in specific cases, so it’s important to consult before introducing any new additions.

Shorkie Personality and Temperament

Shih Tzus bring a loving and gentle spirit, while Yorkies add confidence and zest. Your Shorkie’s personality may tilt toward one parent or blend both, but you can count on a devoted little dog that loves to be by your side — made easier by their tiny size.

Proper socialization helps Shorkies become outgoing and friendly with people of all ages and with other pets. However, because they are so small and toy-like, interactions with very young children or larger animals should always be supervised to avoid accidental harm.

Shorkie Behavior

Daily exercise—20 to 30 minutes of walks or play—is vital to keep your Shorkie happy and healthy. These sensitive dogs can become anxious or bored if left alone too long, which might trigger behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or house-soiling.

Shorkie Training

Early socialization is key, exposing your puppy to varied people, animals, environments, and experiences to build confidence rather than fear. Positive, reward-based training builds a strong bond and keeps your Shorkie mentally stimulated and well-mannered.

Fun Activities for Shorkies

• Leisurely walks
• Obedience classes
• Trick and skills training
• Playing fetch
• Interactive food puzzles

Shorkie Grooming Guide

The Shorkie’s coat flows like human hair and can grow quite long. Their minimal shedding makes them appealing to allergy-sensitive individuals, although no dog is truly allergen-free.

Skin Care

Maintaining a healthy coat is the cornerstone of skin health. Mats can trap moisture and irritants, potentially leading to skin infections, so keeping hair tangle-free is essential.

Regular bathing is necessary, but not too often — over-bathing can strip natural oils and cause dryness and itching. Discuss a grooming schedule with your vet tailored to your Shorkie’s coat and skin condition.

Coat Care

Daily brushing or combing prevents painful mats and keeps your Shorkie’s coat silky and smooth. If grooming feels overwhelming, consider a shorter haircut for easier upkeep.

Eye Care

Due to their Shih Tzu heritage, Shorkies may be prone to eye problems. Remove hair from around their eyes by trimming or securing it away with a gentle holder to prevent irritation and keep a close watch for redness, cloudiness, or discharge.

Ear Care

Consult your veterinarian on ear cleaning routines. Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, tenderness, or foul odor, and seek veterinary care promptly if any appear.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Before welcoming a Shorkie into your life, ask yourself:

• Am I committed to daily brushing or combing of a long, silky coat?
• Can I provide regular bathing without overdoing it?
• Will I brush my dog’s teeth at least three times weekly?
• Do I have enough time at home to offer companionship and prevent loneliness?
• Can I dedicate time daily to mental and physical exercise for my dog?
• Am I willing to engage in patient, positive reinforcement training?
• Am I financially prepared for veterinary care and other expenses?
• Can I offer a loving, lifelong home for a dog potentially living into their teens?

If you answer with an enthusiastic “Yes!” then a Shorkie might be the perfect companion for you.

What is a Shorkie’s lifespan?

As a blend of Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier, Shorkies typically enjoy a lifespan of 10 to 18 years, reflecting the longevity of their parent breeds.

How big do full-grown Shorkies get?

Though not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club and lacking a strict size standard, full-grown Shorkies usually stand no taller than 10 inches and weigh between 7 and 16 pounds.

Is the Shorkie a rare breed?

The Shorkie is a relatively new and uncommon hybrid. Without AKC recognition, there is no official registry or population data, making it difficult to determine exact numbers. However, their unique appeal continues to draw enthusiasts worldwide.