Shorkie at a glance

  Size

Weight Range: 5-15 lbs.
Height: 6-14 inches
Coat
Length: Medium to Long
Characteristics: Straight, silky, low-shedding
Colors: Any combination of blue, red, black, brown, fawn or white
Overall Grooming Needs: High 

Features:
Small and sturdy with a rounded head, short snout, and high tail.

Expectations:
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes/day
Energy Level: High
Longevity Range: 11-16 years
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Moderate
Tendency to Bark: High
Tendency to Dig: Moderate
Social/Attention Needs: High

Personality:
Spunky, playful and energetic, one thing that's commonly said about shorkies is that they don't know they're small. They're also loving, affectionate and fiercely loyal, and love to curl up in a lap and cuddle. Shorkies tend to get along with the whole family, but they form the tightest bonds with their primary caretaker and will often stick to that person like glue.

History:

The shorkie dog breed is a recent phenomenon. While it's highly probable that unintentional Yorkie and Shih Tzu pairings occurred naturally throughout history, the two breeds weren't intentionally crossed in the U.S. until the 2000s, with the goal of breeding an adorable companion with the spunk and tiny size of the Yorkie and the sturdiness and loyalty of the Shih Tzu. As a crossbreed, shorkies aren't recognized by the American Kennel Club. But the American Canine Hybrid Club recognizes this breed as the Shorkie Tzu, and they can also be registered with the International Designer Canine Registry.