Adorable Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Puppies: Everything You Need to Know
The Shih Tzu Yorkie mix, affectionately known as the “Yorkie Tzu” or “Shorkie,” is a captivating blend of two beloved breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Yorkshire Terrier. This charming combination inherits the best of both worlds, resulting in a tiny, playful, and affectionate companion. Their fluffy coats, expressive eyes, and energetic personalities have made them a sought-after breed among dog lovers. Whether you’re considering welcoming a Yorkie Tzu puppy into your home or simply intrigued by this delightful breed, let’s dive into the world of these adorable companions.
What is a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
The Shih Tzu Yorkie mix is a crossbreed resulting from breeding a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier. This combination creates a unique and adorable dog with traits inherited from both parent breeds. The Yorkie Tzu typically inherits the Shih Tzu’s affectionate and playful nature, combined with the Yorkshire Terrier’s intelligence and spunky personality. These adorable pups are often described as being “teddy bear-like” due to their fluffy coats and sweet dispositions.
As a hybrid breed, Yorkie Tzus don’t have a standard breed recognition from organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, their popularity has led to a growing community of Yorkie Tzu enthusiasts who appreciate their unique qualities and loving personalities.
What Are the Temperaments of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
Yorkie Tzus are known for their affectionate and playful personalities. They are typically very friendly and enjoy spending time with their families. They are often described as being “lap dogs” due to their love of cuddling and being close to their humans. However, Yorkie Tzus are also quite energetic and enjoy playing games, going for walks, and exploring the world around them. They tend to be social dogs and usually get along well with children and other pets.
It’s important to note that every dog is an individual, and temperaments can vary. Some Yorkie Tzus may be more independent or reserved than others. It’s always a good idea to meet a Yorkie Tzu in person to get a sense of their individual personality and how they might fit into your family.
What is the Size and Appearance of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
The size and appearance of a Yorkie Tzu can vary depending on the genetics of their parents. Typically, Yorkie Tzus range in size from 8 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 8 and 16 pounds. They usually have a long, silky coat that can be straight or wavy.
Yorkie Tzus come in a variety of colors, including:
- Black and tan
- Brown and tan
- Blue and tan
- White
- Cream
- Gold
- Parti-colored
How Much Do Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Puppies Cost?
The cost of a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix puppy can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, and the location. It’s essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Reputable breeders typically charge between $800 and $2,000 for a Yorkie Tzu puppy.
Remember, while price is a factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor when choosing a puppy. It’s always advisable to prioritize a responsible breeder who provides proper care and socialization for their puppies.
How Much Exercise Does a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Need?
Yorkie Tzus are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to exercise. They typically don’t need extensive exercise, but they do enjoy daily walks or playtime. A 15-20 minute walk each day is sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Yorkie Tzus are also happy to play indoors, so even if you don’t have a large yard, you can still provide them with plenty of opportunities for fun and exercise.
What is the Lifespan of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
Yorkie Tzus generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This lifespan can be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health care.
What is the Grooming Needs of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
Yorkie Tzus require regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coats. They need to be brushed daily to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. You may choose to trim their coat yourself or take them to a professional groomer for a more extensive grooming session.
It’s important to note that Yorkie Tzus can be prone to tear staining. This can be minimized by regularly cleaning their eyes and using a tear stain remover product.
Are Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Yorkie Tzus are known for being affectionate and playful dogs, making them good family dogs. They are often very gentle with children and are typically happy to spend time with their families. However, it’s essential to supervise interactions between Yorkie Tzus and young children to ensure that both parties are safe and comfortable.
Yorkie Tzus are also relatively small and can be easily handled by children. However, it’s still crucial to teach children how to interact safely with dogs and to always supervise their play.
What are the Health Concerns of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
While Yorkie Tzus are generally healthy dogs, they can be prone to some health issues that are common in their parent breeds. These include:
- Patellar luxation
- Hypoglycemia
- Allergies
- Eye problems
- Dental problems
It’s important to choose a breeder who tests their breeding dogs for these conditions to help reduce the risk of health issues in their puppies. It’s also advisable to have your Yorkie Tzu examined by a veterinarian regularly to catch any potential health problems early on.
What are the Training Needs of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
Yorkie Tzus are intelligent dogs and are generally easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and toys. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to help them develop into well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
Yorkie Tzus can be prone to barking, so it’s important to teach them basic obedience commands, such as “quiet” and “leave it.” Consistent training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking and ensure that your Yorkie Tzu is a well-behaved companion.
What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
Pros:
- Affectionate and playful personality
- Compact size, suitable for smaller homes
- Generally easy to train
- Low-maintenance exercise needs
- Good with children and other pets
- Long lifespan
Cons:
- Prone to barking
- Can be prone to health issues
- Requires regular grooming
- Can be prone to tear staining
Are Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Yorkie Tzus are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. They shed, and their dander can trigger allergies in some people. While their coats are generally shorter than those of some other breeds, they still produce allergens that can affect individuals with allergies. It’s essential to meet a Yorkie Tzu in person and spend time with them to assess your individual reaction to their dander. If you have severe allergies, you might want to consider other breeds that are considered hypoallergenic.
How to Find a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix for Sale?
When searching for a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix, prioritize finding a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Here are some ways to find a reputable breeder:
- Ask for recommendations: Talk to other Yorkie Tzu owners or dog breeders in your area for recommendations.
- Contact local breed clubs: Search for Yorkie Tzu breed clubs or rescue organizations in your area. They can often provide information on reputable breeders.
- Research online: Look for websites that specialize in Yorkie Tzus. Reputable breeders will have comprehensive websites with information about their dogs and breeding practices.
Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Summary Table
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, playful, intelligent, spunky |
| Size | 8-15 inches tall, 8-16 pounds |
| Coat | Long, silky, can be straight or wavy, various colors |
| Exercise Needs | 15-20 minutes of daily exercise |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Grooming Needs | Daily brushing, bathing every 4-6 weeks |
| Health Concerns | Patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, allergies, eye problems, dental problems |
| Training Needs | Easy to train with positive reinforcement |
| Hypoallergenic? | No |
FAQ
Are Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Good With Kids?
Yes, Shih Tzu Yorkie mixes are generally good with kids. They are known for being gentle and playful, and they enjoy spending time with their families. However, it’s always important to supervise interactions between dogs and children to ensure everyone’s safety.
How Often Do Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Need to be Groomed?
Shih Tzu Yorkie mixes require regular grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. You can choose to trim their coat yourself or take them to a professional groomer.
Are Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Prone to Barking?
Yorkie Tzus can be prone to barking. They are often barkers, especially when they are excited or alert to something new. It’s essential to teach them basic obedience commands, such as “quiet” and “leave it.” Consistent training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking.
Are Shih Tzu Yorkie Mixes Easy to Train?
Yes, Shih Tzu Yorkie mixes are generally easy to train. They are intelligent dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and toys. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to help them develop into well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
What Kind of Food Should I Feed My Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix?
It’s best to choose a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs. It should contain balanced nutrients to meet their needs for energy, growth, and development. Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your Yorkie Tzu.
How Much Does a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Puppy Cost?
The cost of a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix puppy can vary depending on the breeder, the puppy’s lineage, and the location. Reputable breeders typically charge between $800 and $2,000 for a Yorkie Tzu puppy.
How Do I Find a Reputable Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Breeder?
When searching for a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix, prioritize finding a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. You can ask for recommendations, contact local breed clubs, or research online to find a reputable breeder.
