Shorkie Puppies

Photo of Shorkie

An affectionate family dog with a big personality

The Shorkie is a designer cross breed between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier. Their size and temperament make them great for first-time dog owners, and they do well in apartments. They have tons of personality and are sure to bring a playful presence to your home.


Shorkie At a Glance

Photo of Shorkie Photo of Shorkie Photo of Shorkie Photo of Shorkie

Shorkie At a Glance

  • Size: 6"-12", 6-17 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 13-18 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Long, silky, and smooth
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Dog Group: Toy
  • Common Nicknames:

Shorkie Quick Guide

Learn More About Shorkies

  • Temperament

    Shorkies are active, playful, and good-natured dogs that make excellent companions for many different types of people. These dogs are at their happiest when spending time with their human "pack." Whether it's a walk in the woods or relaxing on the couch, Shorkies thrive on being involved in family activities. Due to the strong bonds that Shorkies form with their owners, they do not tolerate being left alone too often or for too long. It's not uncommon for Shorkies to develop separation anxiety, so they aren't recommended for anyone who plans to be out of the house for large portions of the day. As long as they receive the attention that they crave, Shorkies are well-mannered, highly trainable dogs.

  • Health

    Shorkies are healthy dogs, but can be prone to conditions common with parent breeds .Things like hypoglycemia, glaucoma, and liver disease should be considered during trips to the vet. Like most small breeds, they can be susceptible to dental problems which should be checked on regularly.

  • Activity Level

    These playful pups are high energy, but it doesn't take much to tire them out. Playtime in your house or in a fenced in yard is a great way for them to exercise, especially if it means more time with their family. They also love trips to the dog park make new furry friends.

  • Grooming

    Shorkies have a long and silky coat that need to be brushed daily to keep it free of knots and tangles. It is also encouraged to get them groomed regularly, usually every 6 weeks. They also require baths every 2-3 months to prevent them from smelling and to keep their coat silky and smooth.

  • Shedding

    Like both parent breeds, Shorkies don't have the undercoat that causes dogs to shed. Their shedding is minimized even more by daily brushing, which is encouraged to keep their coat pristine.

  • Appearance

    Like most cross breeds, the Shorkie's appearance can vary depending on the traits of its parents. They typically have long and silky fur that can vary widely in color. They have round and expressive eyes that are most commonly blue or brown. Their pendant shaped ears fall along the side of their face, and the hair on their muzzle feathers, resembling a beard.

  • History

    A cross between the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier, the Shorkie is a designer dog breed that originated sometime during the 1980s or 90s. While mixed breeds existed for decades prior, breeders didn't begin to intentionally crossbreed purebred dogs until the late 20th century. This occurred mostly in the United States, but some breeds were created in Australia as well. The Shorkie was likely a product of this "designer dog craze," but it's impossible to know for certain, as few designer dogs have a well-documented history. Despite unclear origins, the Shorkie became quite popular over a short span of time. Today, the breed is part of multiple canine clubs for designer and hybrid breeds, like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC).