Shorkie

Grooming

Shorkies inherit their parents’ medium to long coats that are typically low-to-non-shedding. This means they require regular brushing to avoid the formation of tangles or mats. Brushing doesn’t have to be done daily, but it should be done at least a few times per week to keep their coats smooth and soft. A bristle brush works best for these dogs, but you can also use a comb specifically designed for dogs.  

You can give your Shorkie a bath every 4 to 6 weeks with mild dog shampoo and lukewarm water. If your dog gets particularly dirty before a month has passed since his last bath, you can bathe him again with warm water but no shampoo. Using shampoo too often can dry out your dog’s skin and cause unpleasant rashes or dryness.  

Other parts of grooming your Shorkie include cutting their nails when they grow too long, cleaning their ears regularly, and brushing their teeth preferably daily.  

Exercise Needs

Shorkie dogs can be both active and laid-back, depending on which of their parents they take after more. They can also adapt to different lifestyles and be content with any type of daily exercise routine. For most Shorkies, two daily walks of a combined 30 minutes and some time spent playing indoors will do the trick.  

Although they can be more active, Shorkies are small dogs that don’t have the right build for intense exercise. You should make sure to never exceed 30 to 40 minutes of exercise at one time. Hiking is a great activity for these dogs, but trips should be short. If you notice your little dog panting or breathing more heavily than usual, it is best to end the hike and carry your Shorkie home. 

It is also recommended to keep these dogs in the shade during hot summer days as they may be prone to over-heating and can have trouble breathing.  

Health

There are not many health concerns for this breed. Since Shorkies are hybrids of two healthy purebred dogs, they benefit from superior health. They are not prone to the same health problems that are passed through purebred generations and rarely suffer from common ailments that affect all dogs. Some of the issues that can happen in this breed include dental issues, cataracts, hypothyroidism, ear infections, and certain allergies. These problems are mild and can be identified and treated early at the vet. 

Lifespan

Raised in a safe, loving environment and provided with high-quality dog food and the recommended amount of exercise, these dogs can live as much as 18 years. Their typical lifespan is between 14 and 16 years, but there have been several to live past this mark.  

Training

Shorkies are smart and bright dogs, but like most breeds, can show a stubborn streak every now and then. They are after all a mix between Shih Tzus and Yorkies, and these dogs are just as much known for their intelligence as they are for their stubbornness. The best way to train these adorable puppies is to motivate them with treats, praise, and positive reinforcement. Once they understand that good behavior is rewarded to their liking, they turn into the most obedient, happy-to-learn puppies.  

They crave pleasing their owners, and this shows when they perform their cute tricks. Their intelligence allows them to learn both basic and advanced lessons as well as tricks and games or sports.  

Shorkies are very friendly, sociable, and outgoing dogs, however, they require socialization training like all dogs do. It is recommended to begin introductions to other dogs, pets, and people as soon as your puppy arrives home. Starting early is best, as it will ensure your puppy grows into a well-behaved adult around others.  

These dogs can be independent, especially if they take after their Yorkshire terrier parent more. But they can also be quite attached to their humans. In any case, it is best to teach them how to be independent. This is best done when they are a few weeks/months old. You can do this by leaving them alone for a few minutes at a time, preferably multiple times throughout the day. This will give them the opportunity to learn how to entertain themselves while alone.