Why Your Next Pet Should Be a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix
No longer coined “mutts,” dogs of mixed pedigree are now considered designer breeds. Trendy and unique, designer breeds are taking the dog world by storm. If you are in the market for a fashionable toy puppy, look no further than a “Shorkie”. The Shorkie is a hybrid dog made up of two purebreds, the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier. Their ever so adorable exterior matches their personality, making it no question of why Shorkies have become one of the most popular designer breeds. If you still aren’t convinced, read the following reasons why your next pet should be a Shih Tzu/Yorkie mix.
-When it comes to living environments, Shorkies are very versatile. Being a small dog, Shorkies do not require much living space. This makes them ideal for a either a home or an apartment.
-Weighing anywhere from 4-12 pounds, Shorkies are perfect for any lifestyle or lap size. Their small stature makes them a great companion to take along with you while running errands, or cozy up on your lap after a long day’s work.
-Shorkies have a great temperament and disposition. They are loving, playful, social, and very affectionate. Their social personality allows them to get along well with small children and other pets. Playful and energetic, Shorkies love to play fetch with their ball or chew on squeaky toys. Since they don’t require much exercise, most of it can be done inside the home or apartment. Shorkies crave human interaction and are known to get very attached to their owners, making them a perfect addition to the family.
-Shorkies are hypo-allergenic and do not shed. Since they are a long haired breed, they will require grooming, but it’s up to the owner’s discretion of how much time they want to allot for grooming. If the hair is kept long it will need to be brushed daily to prevent tangling and matting, but the preferred haircut is the puppy cut, which gives them a youthful, teddy bear looking appearance with little maintenance.
-Like their parent breeds, Shorkies are very intelligent and strong-willed. They love being rewarded for good behavior and respond best when the owner is consistent.
-Overall, Shorkies are known to be healthy dogs with minimal veterinary concerns. When provided with a proper diet and good vet care, Shorkies have an average lifespan of 14-19 years. This time frame allows them be part of your family and a great companion for years on end.
Image via Petguide.com